Title: Without a Suitcase: The Story of Katie as Told to Her Son Janek (Jon)
Author: Jon Butcher
Publisher: WestBow Press
ISBN: 978-1973617167
Pages: 300
Genre: Memoir
Reviewer: Aaron Washington
Hollywood Book Reviews
Reading a memoir has never been more compelling. In Without a Suitcase: The Story of Katie as Told to Her Son Janek (Jon), we follow the story of Katie, who braved many obstacles, tragedies, and even went through world wars, raising a family that grew to experience life in different ways. Katie’s story is told by her son Jon, and that is what makes this book special. Jon narrates the life of his mother based on the stories she used to tell him, the tales he heard from friends and relatives, and accounts of people who interacted with his mother. This book is the most riveting memoir you will come across in a long time. It is history, fused with human stories and life lessons in between the pages.
We were first taken to Poland, in the early 1900s. Katie narrates about her family, her father serving in the Austrian army, the birth of her siblings, and how she related with her relatives. The story becomes even more interesting when the reader gets to learn of the different cultures, and different countries, and how the government policies of superpowers had a massive impact in the 20th century. I like how the story is told; unhurriedly, carefully, and full of details. You learn of the author’s entire family tree, what shaped their personalities, their favorites, and how they grew to be responsible adults. Europe in the 1900’s was a tad different from how it is now. Nations were still developing, catastrophes were plaguing different regions, and events like the world wars had a major effect on everyone.
Jon Butcher’s story, and that of his mother is fascinating. Apart from family matters, readers will appreciate Without a Suitcase: The Story of Katie as Told to Her Son Janek (Jon) because of the history. Anyone who wants to read about world wars from a personal account needs to read this book. The attributes are explicit, and the author is articulate in his writing. From the stories in the book, you get to appreciate the relative peace which is present in the world today. Think about a family who has to move from one region to another because of issues like starvation, wars, human conflict, and government procedures; that is how Jon’s family and his kin survived for years. The author narrates the beautiful stories about his mother, her resilience, and the ray of hope which kept them alive. Tales about occurrences in different European countries like Austria, Soviet Siberia, Poland, and Uzbekistan will leave you teary.
Without a Suitcase: The Story of Katie as Told to Her Son Janek (Jon) is the ideal book for history buffs, memoir enthusiasts, and readers who appreciate slow, beautiful, and educational stories. Through this book, you learn to value the little that you have. I also appreciate Jon Butcher for inviting readers into his life and sharing the good, bad, and extra about his culture. Any reader who relishes a story with a sound background will love this memoir.