Book Review: Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke

It’s 1910, and Maureen O’Reilly and her younger sister are trapped. In Ireland, they can never be free, and they must flee to America. After barely getting through Ellis Island, Maureen is devastated when she finds out that her benefactor has died. She moves into a small apartment, and through lying, she lands a job as a worker in a department store.  Only then does she realize that any salesgirl who gets “promoted” is often never heard from again.  When her sister and her are placed in harm’s way, Maureen must choose to tell the truth, because it is the only thing that will free her from harm’s way.

I liked:

• The time era. Such an interesting time in America’s history, with such an influx of immigrants.
• The cover. Oh my lands. Absolutely stunning.
• The historical facts. This ties in with the last sentence, but it was absolutely amazing. I honestly didn’t know a book could have so much historical fact jammed into each page. And to top that off, it was a perfecty seamless use of history. I cannot even say how much I loved it. Because I loved it a lot. A whole lot.

• The character development. Absolutely wonderful. Cathy Gohlke did a fantastic job.

I disliked:

• That it made me want to wear the clothing from 1910. I am content, I am content, I am content! ;)

Innapropriate for ages 18 and under:

• There is a theme running through the book of human trafficking. This is not a bad thing, and I believe the author did a great job of presenting this present day slavery as a real issue, one that needs to be addressed. That said, I don’t believe this book to be appropriate for ages 18 and under. Does this mean that a 17 year old couldn’t read it and be fine? Of course not. It depends on your unique person. However, I was extremely uncomfortable reading a few, ahem, “special” scenes.

Overall, this was one of the most truthful (and fact-filled) Historical books I have read. I learned more about immigration and the life of an immigrant than I ever learned in my history books. I do believe this book to be a great read for ages 18+, and a thought provoking story.

Tyndale publishers gave me this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks Tyndale!