3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries (Still Talking): A Humorous and Heartfelt Memoir

by Elizabeth Moore Kraus

Join the three Moore sisters as they blithely venture off on their first-ever trip together, traveling in Ireland, England, and Scotland. All in their mid-60s and feeling confident in themselves and their relationship, they embark with visions of fun on their horizon. But all too quickly reality sets in. An unforgettable memoir of a journey filled with ups, downs, and everything in between, this is a must-read book filled with laughter and life lessons.

Why would sisters want to take such a long trip together?" The Moore sisters were often asked this question, to which came their same, unwavering "Why not?

It all started when one sister gave a siren call for travel to her two sisters. In response, they started packing; almost that fast. As their journey unfolds, it reveals many things, including how after a fifty-some year break of sharing a childhood room they must adapt to living with each other once again; how hard can this be? Well, it's only a matter of time, though in ever small increments, before they begin sliding sideways. So how do these Golden Girl-ish Moore sisters handle 'sideways,' and so far from home?

You don't have to be a sister to read this book. Readers will be pulled in by the emotional range these sisters experience, including love, frustration, laughter, and angst. Before you know it, you will find yourself rooting for the Moore sisters as they find their way through the sister quagmire.

Genres: Travel, Memoir, Nonfiction, Family, Adventure

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 17, 2022

Reviews

[Ronald Mackay · Rating 5 out of 5]

To see one’s own, “old”, country through the eyes of an intelligent and careful observer from the “new world” promises the reader insight, surprise, and humour.

Elizabeth Moore-Kraus account of her and her two sister’s adventures in Ireland, England and Scotland offers the reader all three of these strengths in abundance.

Whether you are from the “old” or the “new” world, if you enjoy fast-moving travel stories in good company, you will find “3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries” a delight and you’ll learn the many qualities that maintain sisterly harmony.

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to reading this book, unfortunately it did not meet expectations. I know sisters fight like no others, but it was to much in this book, I found this book to be boring.

[Patti Townley-Covert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether you have sisters or not, you can't help but enjoy this romp through relationships that's filled with love, laughter, loss, and the release of old patterns as new ones are created. This travel memoir takes readers on a scenic tour of profound insights into how taking the risk to communicate can knit people together with unshakeable bonds.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

________________
I rarely do this, but I am going to start my review of this book with an " I loved this book". It is a travel memoir of the 3 Moore sisters journey to Ireland, England and Scotland, but it actually is about so much more. It is about 3 sisters, in their mid-60's, navigating not just bus schedules, but their sister relationships. Traversing life and making their symbolic sister tent stronger with shared humor and shared understanding.
When traveling situations go a bit sideways, family history was shared with the reader to give background insight. Each sister was in charge of the arrangement s for "their" country, which I thought was brilliant.
I read this book slowly, taken in all the experience s.There are many thought provoking moments to stop and ponder. The sisters visited interesting places within all 3 countries. I especially liked learning about Ireland as that was a Country I had not been to. Also as I read I thought of my own 3 sisters and have had a discussion or two with them as I came across humorous parts we could relate to as well as the sistership feelings.

I liked that at the end we are let into how things transpired when everyone went back home. It was very heatwarming. ...and yes, they were still talking and laughing!
There are photos which I loved seeing! Perhaps the Moore sisters will travel together again. Perhaps a warmer climate next time i.e , Greece or Spain, although I can see them in France or Holland as well. This book has inspired the Deurloo sisters to do some traveling together someday.
Highly recommended, not just for sisters but for friends, all siblings..etc.

[Stacy Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page this is a captivating and funny look at travel, life, and the relationships between siblings. I felt like I was right there alongside Elizabeth and her sisters, whether it was the rolling countryside, iconic landmarks, picturesque cities, or wooden pubs. I especially loved the story arc of the already unbreakable bond between sisters becoming even deeper and more meaningful. Travels and laughs... what's not to love!

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t just a travel book about three sisters sightseeing in three countries, it’s about their relationships over a lifetime. Rivalries and gripes dating back 60 some years are always bubbling under the surface. A sister tent can be fragile, but this one is fortified by common experiences and understanding of each other’s foibles. Knowing another person, warts and all, and still willing to spend three weeks together in close quarters can only be due to one thing, love.

[Liza Grantham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enchanting memoir in which three women set out on a journey of discovery, not only across three countries, but also into being a sister, and what that relationship really means.
In addition to a suitcase, each of the women carries additional, metaphorical luggage, and the author’s anecdotes afford the reader a generous and privileged insight into how these burdens have shaped each sister’s life.
As the women travel, they delight in new experiences and face challenges with courage and humour. When patience is tested, nerves are frayed or conflicts threaten to drive wedges between them, they are able to laugh in the face of adversity; the bond, though strained at times, is never broken, because it is founded on sisterly love.
3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries is touching, amusing and written from the heart.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful memoir this is. I expected it to be simply a description of their time visiting the 3 countries, Ireland, England and Scotland however it's so much more. We learn how they variously negotiate any tensions that arise and a lot about their family history and of course about their love for each other. It's written in a captivating and humorous style that drew me in from the start. It's such an open and honest account which had me nodding in agreement at some of their antics. It was fun to read her opinions of many places I'm familiar with and have visited often. I have to say I'm very pleased they loved Scotland - even the rain - and the hedges! I'd love to read more from the author.

[S. Bavey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kraus’s writing is eloquent and flows well, making this memoir a joy to read. A natural born worrier, in this book the author can’t help but dissect the sibling relationship with particular reference to her two sisters. The three of them have decided it is high time they went on an extended vacation together. Each sister wants to go to a different country in Europe, so they decide to go for three weeks, with each sister choosing the destination and accommodation for one of the weeks. The book is a funny, somewhat irreverent look at the relationship between the three Californian sisters during their trip to Ireland, Scotland and England. The author describes the historical landmarks they visit, the food and shopping they experience with care and great detail, making it a useful travel guide as well as an interesting study of family relationships. Along the way they experience a few storms (both rain and emotional) and have to work out how to weather these. I found 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries to be highly enjoyable, particularly having been to Dublin, Edinburgh and Bath and having lived in London for twelve years (all places the Moore sisters visit, among others). As an only child the insight into the sibling relationship was very interesting to me, a relationship I have always envied. Highly recommended!

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟 BOOK REVIEW 🌟
3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries (Still Talking): A Humorous and Heartfelt Memoir
by Elizabeth Moore Kraus

Wow! This is my kind of memoir! Engaging. Witty. Real. Not to mention a trip with three sixty-something sisters to Ireland, England, and Scotland, splendid photos, and even a list of book club questions. We get to know the Moore sisters' dynamics and how they work through long-held issues as each takes charge of planning a week-long visit to one country. Middle sister/author Elizabeth Moore Kraus brings her delightful personality to the page, lending a charming feel to the heart-warming read. Highly recommended for fans of memoirs, travelogues, and vibrant books about sisters. Out now.

Thanks to author.kraus for the gorgeous review copy. Opinions are mine.

#3sisters3weeks3countriesstilltalking
#elizabethmoorekrauss #memoirtravelogue
#sisterlydynamics #triptoirelandenglandscotland
#bookstagramcommunity

[Janet Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liz is a gifted, humorous story teller! In the time of Covid and travel restrictions her book was a welcome relief when traveling to England, Ireland and Scotland were impossible. I loved the idea of the 'sister tent' which kept them together throughout the three weeks of mishaps. The back story of their relationship and the clear definitions of each personality was done perfectly...no crazy drama, no snarky back-stabbing, no sexual indiscretions...just good honest sweet sisterhood. The ending is the best! After returning from their trip they decide on one more (shorter and closer to home) visit to the local mountains where the 'sister tent' is firmly and permanently sealed with love. This is the perfect book club book with suggested questions to explore at the end. Treat yourself to a 'laugh out loud' journey with the Moore sisters, you won't regret it!

[Anna Dahland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I REALLY enjoyed this book! It's fun, it's heartfelt, and I love the way the narrator's touching family stories are interwoven with the story of the trip. It's like getting to go along on the trip myself!

That said, I have to mention that, as a very experienced traveler, I found some of the episodes a little ordinary, but then I reminded myself that this book was not about me (it's not all about me!) but rather three sisters who had not traveled together before. It was interesting to see what challenged the sisters, how they responded, and how their relationships developed and changed as the story progressed.

In the end, I gave this book a five stars - four for the story (very nice) and an extra star for the absolute beauty of the book! The cover is gorgeous, the formatting and typesetting are both comfortable and pretty, and it even has pictures! And - cherry on top - those pictures show the key events in the story, helping the reader to vicariously enjoy the trip. I highly recommend this book!

[Andrea Couture · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this memoir. It’s one of the first travel memoirs I’ve read and the Moore sisters travel to 3 countries on my bucket list so I was more than intrigued. This memoir is heartfelt, funny, beautifully written, informative, and entertaining. The author weaves a beautiful story and history of 3 sisters through the decades as they grow and share their lives together. I am one of 3 girls so this story felt close to my heart and some of my own experiences. The author’s use of the “Sister Tent” metaphor is exceptional and so true to life. Beautiful book! Excellent read!

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries is a memoir that puts you smack dab in the middle of it all-- the picturesque towns, the noisy pubs, and the challenges that each new day traveling in the UK brings. Kraus weaves a story that is not simply travelogue, but one that captures both the inimitable joy and inevitable heartache that come with sisterhood. Not only do we get to hear the (almost always) good-natured ribbing the three give each other, but we are also graced with learning the history behind the longstanding traditions and inside jokes. And all this as we travel from city to town to countryside with this fun and funny threesome showing us the way! This is a fun read! And if you can't travel to the UK in real life, you definitely don't want to miss this tale of discovery of new lands and (re)newed love between three charming women.

[carol soffietto · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, in fact I've read it twice! the author's casual style and quirky humor make for light reading, but at it's core this book is a powerful, sometimes painful, look at relationships and the struggle to let go of our pettiness in order to achieve real connections with those we love. Whether or not you have sisters (and I don't) a reader can relate to how difficult it is to rein in the ego and let others take the spotlight, and to let go of the fears that intimidate us. I came away feeling the need to work harder on my own relationships, along with the strong desire to add visiting Scotland to my bucket list! Part memoir, part travelogue, and totally enjoyable.

[Sherre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed traveling vicariously with the Moore sisters on their journey to Ireland, England and Scotland. A beautifully-written memoir filled with warmth, humor and some heartbreaking times. The author gives the reader the background of each sister personality and their relationship with each other. The story about pesto when visiting England, reminded me of vacations that didn’t always go as planned.

[Marji Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having always wanted a sister - and loving to travel — I looked forward to reading this book, yet I had no idea it would take me on such an adventure of emotions! From “laugh-out-loud funny” to “I-feel-your-hurt tears” and back again, Liz took me on a trip I wasn’t expecting at all. She carefully lifted the flap of The Sister Tent, invited me in and allowed me to experience sisterhood as an insider. I loved being effortlessly transported from the events of each travel day to the underlying family history which gave each day its unique challenges and unexpected gifts. This story of love, trust and sisterhood is a gem! Highly recommend! (No sister required.)

[Linda Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

A GREAT read. This is a heartfelt story that not only delivers the experience of touring 3 countries, but tells the story of 3 very brave and strong women. It gives deep insight into their relationship; how life-long misunderstandings impacted their perceptions of each other; and how their courage and love lead them to appreciate and understand their differences and strengths. It is a true story of triumph!

[Tammy Horvath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I’d love to be named after a queen.
The Moore sisters’ adventures in Ireland, England, and Scotland are described in such vivid detail that I want to visit each country. Even though there was some jealousy between the sisters, I love how they worked through it and became closer. By traveling with my sister, I’ve learned that there are always things we don’t know about each other. The way the Moore sisters laugh when tragedy strikes, something gets misplaced, or they misplace themselves makes me long to laugh with my sister more. It is essential to spend time with loved ones while they are here. You never know when it may be your last day on earth. As Elizabeth says, it just takes a little faith in yourself and your family to work through difficult times, even while traveling together. Kudos to the Moore sisters for enduring each other for three long weeks, most times in tight spaces. This book is excellent for anyone who wants to laugh, travel, or learn how to bond with family. I couldn’t put this book down.

[Nic Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written book that takes the reader on a three week adventure with three sisters as they navigate their way from California through Ireland, England and Scotland but also navigate through their sisterly bond and relationships, rediscovering each other later in life and each coming to terms with who the other has become. Warmth poured from every page but it was the observational wit of the author that not only kept me hooked on every word but had me truly laughing along the way. I found this to be a highly emotive read, beautifully crafted, cleverly threaded and most importantly written with such an honest warmth that, in that moment, I wished I had been there right along with the ladies as they recalled childhood memories, the ups and downs of marriage, motherhood and everything in between. Quite simply, a beautiful book and one journey that I didn't want to end. I look forward to more from this author. Highly recommended.

[Karen Legge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started the book looking at three sisters from the outside but left the book feeling I’d gained family! Yes, there’s a focus on travels and experiences in three countries familiar to me, but this book is so much more. It took me through extremes of emotions, from laughter to sobs (but mostly left me with a sense of warmth). It had me questioning my own relationships and family dynamics in a therapeutic way. But mostly it felt like a conversation with a good friend. The narrative asides and acute observations of Elizabeth Kraus were the perfect companion to their adventures. Family history and life growing up in SoCal were weaved skilfully into everything from Belfast taxis to carrier bags from Wimbledon. That’s quite an art!

All the way through I was rooting for their ‘sister tent’ and hoping that foreign foundations would hold steady. I can only hope they brave more travels together for a follow up.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a young woman in my late 20’s, a memoir of my own life seems like an unattainable goal… maybe even an unwritten dream that might never come to fruition. This novel did not only hit home for me (relatable for siblings of any age), but brought me into the future; perhaps a foreshadowing of what my familial relationships are today, while challenging what they could be. It took up space, not only in my life but in my heart. I now feel the need to dig deeper within the relationships I have with my own siblings. I don’t want time to pass without the truth being exposed. I want to love and live the way these three sisters have, while also cherishing the precious time we share together today. This book was enlightening, heavy hearted, and exposed. I recommend anyone and everyone to go along the author’s journey with curiosity and compassion.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover of the book sold me on it. We are 2 sisters and travel all the time. The Moore sisters waited a long time before they finally worked out their schedules to take a trip together. 3 weeks can be a long time—my sister and I have done it. I love how they worked out that each sister would be responsible for a different country and it was nice to revisit places we have been. A very funny part for me was when they thought the would have a lift (elevator) ever place they went and that didn’t work out but it was so funny how they went about getting their luggage up a gazillion stairs. The only thing I think they could do better would be to have one day free in each country. I would recommend this book to everyone.

[Jess · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this but it was dull. The concept is great - 3 sisters in their 60s (I think) go on a trip abroad. I found the execution majorlyyyyy lacking. There was so much to mine here, sister dynamics, shared history, the history of the countries they visited, what it’s like visiting in 2019 or whatever year it was, aging together etc. The author touched on these things ever so lightly, and even then the writing was so so bad. Obvious remarks, unfunny jokes, boomer energy. I feel bad saying this because I know a human being wrote this about their life. If you read this, I’m sure you’re lovely.

What I did like and find inspiring is that these older women still have a sense of adventure!

[kalia jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good book that reminded me of my own personal travels. I personally loved the way marriage was spoken of in this book and the theme of sisterhood. Wonderfully written and I am so glad my english teacher recommended this to me, it was a lovely read!

[Linda Jämsén · Rating 5 out of 5]

In August 2019, the author and two of her siblings (one older, one younger) left the comforts of their respective American homes and pitched their "Sister Tent" abroad. They decided that each would pick one country as a travel destination, find suitable accommodation, and suggest an itinerary for one week. Now in their 60s, it has been 50 years since the sisters all shared a room while growing up in California. What could possibly go wrong? Nothing, except that each sister (like all of us) is traveling with extra carry-one baggage that's packed with long-ago, deep-rooted frustrations and jealousies. Despite the many decades of living apart, these are quick to resurface and threaten to rip or tear the "Sister Tent." Through backstory, the author shares insight into these well-established childhood patterns and reveals devastating family losses that impacted her two sisters and her relationships with them. Ms. Kraus is compassionate in her understanding, quick to forgive, and eager to make her siblings laugh.

Against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, Wimbleton (beware the orange bag), and Trinity College, we watch the sisters navigate through cultural and language barriers ("To Let" is not a toilet!), suppress their knee-jerk reactions to being "stomper-offers," and learn to prioritize what is truly important during their time together: their sisterly bonds. The author likens each of them to an individual star "bringing light to our sisters' constellation." Her affection and respect for Rie and Les shine through on every page.

This is a big-hearted, good-natured memoir told with an openness that feels as if you are traveling alongside the sisters on their adventures through Scotland, Ireland, and England. And for the hours it took to read this book (not so many, as I gobbled it up), it was an enviable place to be. Highly recommended!

[Locasyencantadoraslectoras · Rating 4 out of 5]

"3 hermanas, 3 semanas, 3 países" de Elizabeth Moore es una lectura apasionante que captura la esencia de la aventura y los lazos de hermandad. Desde la primera página, me sentí atraída por la historia de tres hermanas que se embarcan en un viaje que las lleva a través de diversos paisajes y culturas en solo tres semanas. El estilo de escritura de Moore es a la vez atractivo y vívido, y pinta un cuadro de los hermosos lugares que visitan las hermanas y al mismo tiempo profundiza en sus personalidades y relaciones individuales.

Lo que más me gustó de este libro es cómo combina magistralmente la narrativa de viajes con el crecimiento personal. Cada hermana enfrenta sus propios desafíos y triunfos, haciendo que su viaje no sea sólo una exploración física, sino también emocional. El desarrollo del personaje es excepcional y me encontré apoyando a cada hermana mientras atravesaban sus experiencias únicas.

El libro es también una celebración de los lazos familiares y la importancia de las experiencias compartidas. El diálogo se siente natural y auténtico, lo que permite a los lectores identificarse con la dinámica de las hermanas y empatizar con sus luchas y alegrías.

En general, "3 hermanas, 3 semanas, 3 países" es una lectura encantadora que ofrece más que un simple escapismo de viajes; Es una historia sincera sobre la conexión, el crecimiento y los lazos familiares duraderos. Si estás buscando una lectura inspiradora que te haga soñar con tus propios viajes con tus seres queridos, ¡este libro es la elección perfecta! ¡Muy recomendado!

[Cristina B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries" by Elizabeth Moore Kraus is a captivating and heartwarming travel memoir that chronicles the author's remarkable journey with her two sisters across three countries in just three weeks. Through vivid storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Kraus takes readers on an adventure filled with cultural discoveries, sisterly bonds, and personal growth.

The book beautifully -- and humorously -- captures the essence of the sisterly relationship, showcasing the dynamics, laughter, and occasional challenges that arise when traveling with family. The author's ability to evoke a sense of place and immerse readers in the landscapes and cultures of Ireland, England, and Scotland is truly commendable.

As the sisters navigate their way through charming towns and bustling cities, readers are treated to a delightful blend of travel insights and personal reflections. The book's charm lies not only in its exploration of distant destinations but also in its celebration of the enduring connections that family can bring.

"3 Sisters 3 Weeks 3 Countries" is a delightful and inspiring read for travel enthusiasts and anyone who cherishes the bonds of sisterhood. It serves as a reminder that the best adventures are often the ones shared with loved ones and that the journey itself can be as rewarding as the destinations. Enjoy this vacation-in-a-book!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not just a travel memoir....I thoroughly enjoyed reading about these three Californian gals and the book drew me in from the very first sentence. The reader comes to learn about the character traits of each sister, and how that plays out in their group dynamics as they travel for three weeks together to the UK - a week each in Ireland, England and Scotland. But the book is more than a travel memoir as the author skilfully weaves in the life stories of herself and her sisters, and also the family in general including her parents and all the trials and tribulations each sister went through from childhood. Funny at times and heartwarming at others, the reader travels to the UK with these three sisters navigating the perils of the British weather and quirky and sometimes dodgy accommodation. The sister-love certainly shines through despite it being tested to the limit - the glue that binds them is stronger than the issues that divide them and their journey of a lifetime brings healing to wounds which have long lain beneath the surface. I got to love all three of them, and particularly loved Rie who resisted the rules they put themselves under on the trip, yet navigated them with grace in the end. A lovely read.

[Kandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 sisters in their sixties set off for a 3-week vacation to 3 different countries. Faced with many challenges along the way, the sisters' bond, and love that they have for one another grows stronger. This can be seen when one sister says, “What they might be too willing to do is ditch me and leave me to finish the tour alone; they don‘t.” The two sisters could have left to go do what they wanted to, but they didn’t. The trip allows the women to create an even stronger sister bond through love, laughter, and memories.

With each trip, & each hurdle, the 3 sisters grow closer.
The love for one another, sisterhood, and friendship all grows stronger with each challenge that they must work throughout together, while travelling.

The author compares the sister’s relationship with their sister tent, in which the women always shared when camping as children. With each argument or tension within their relationship when travelling, the tear in the tent becomes larger. When the women resolve problems within their relationship, the tear in the tent becomes smaller. I thought this was a neat comparison of the sisterly bond.

This book makes me want to plan a sister trip.