The Dream: A Memoir (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780345503893)

During the hard and bitter years of his youth in England, Harry Bernstein's selfless mother never stops dreaming of a better life in America, no matter how unlikely. Then, one miraculous day when Harry is twelve years old, steamship tickets arrive in the mail, sent by an anonymous benefactor. Suddenly, a new life full of the promise of prosperity seems possible-and the family sets sail for America, meeting relatives in Chicago. For a time, they get a taste of the good life: electric lights, a bathtub, a telephone. But soon the harsh realities of the Great Depression envelop them. Skeletons in the family closet come to light, mafiosi darken their doorstep, family members are lost, and dreams are shattered. In the face of so much loss, Harry and his mother must make a fateful decision-one that will change their lives forever. And though he has struggled for so long, there is an incredible bounty waiting for Harry in New York: his future wife, Ruby. It is their romance that will finally bring the peace and happiness that Harry's mother always dreamed was possible.

Author: Harry Bernstein
ISBN-10: 0345503899
ISBN-13: 9780345503893
Publisher: Ballantine Group
Language: English
Published: 04/07/2009
Pages: 304
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.49lbs
Size: 7.98h x 5.24w x 0.64d

Review Citation(s):
New York Times Book Review 05/17/2009 pg. 20