3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Ashes of innoccence, June 5, 2008
This review is from: The Ashes of Innocence (Paperback)
I cried through the first half. If this story didn't have a happy ending, it woud never have been written and no one would have known the horrors Tesluk went through as a child. There was no government agency to pull her out; no neighbors; or any family member that came to her defense. And through the torment, she grew to become her own champion. This is a very inspiring story for all to read; especially those parents who have spoiled children who whine about their name-brand clothing, their cell phones and their inability to cope with trivial, nonsensical problems, especially those we see on TV. We see plenty of criminals spotlighted because they had a bad upbringing. We rarely see on TV someone who has gone through hell and came up a winner. Recommended for a TV movie.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Truly gripping - at times even frightening!!, June 5, 2008
This review is from: The Ashes of Innocence (Paperback)
The Ashes of Innocence was far different than I expected. I had the feeling that it was going to be a bit dry, telling of war camps and repression. While it did those things, it also read like a gripping suspense novel! This book draws the reader in. It captivates your attention and doesn't let it go. I found myself unable to sleep. I read the entire book in one(long) evening. Three days later, I started reading it again!
There are elements of this book that stir your emotions. The writing style is such that it awakens you to the hard truths that surround us all every day while we are enjoying our own lives. There are those suffering - right now, always. It's painful to know, but so true. The author certainly was dealt far more than her share of torment. Molestation, beatings, hunger, suicide, alcoholism, belittlement, and repression of every sort all were placed on Tesluk, and all before she was even old enough to begin school. Then, her life got bad!
This isn't a story of complaint or defeat though. She overcame all that tried to crush out her life. She found strength. She exhibited courage beyond belief. The recurrence of her intent to be united with her father links the subthemes of the story together in a heartwarming way. In the end, she is liberated. She emerges victorious having fought many enemies - both human and non.
I truly haven't read such a fine book in many years. I can't recommend it strongly enough! It is definitely a story that all people should read - young and old, male and female. There are lessons here that everyone needs to embrace. The most significant fact about the book is that is all true. It seems impossible, but it is based on her life. If the author reads this review, I hope that she understands that she has presented the world with a fine gift. Read this book!
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Tesluk - used the strength of human spirit to survive and find peace, May 21, 2008
This review is from: The Ashes of Innocence (Paperback)
Tesluk narrates a grim but touching story of her life which began in a war camp in Germany. The story relates over many decades how she searched for her beloved but mysteriously absent moja tato (Ukranian for Father). The very personal rendition of day to day life upon arriving in Canada and surviving a childhood of misery at the hands of a stepfather is powerful. The story continues with the ups and downs of life's many challenges through young adulthood and beyond which the author manages to overcome purely through strength of character and spirit. Ultimately the Love for her own two children becomes the true reflection in spirit of the Father she never knew but whom she'd turned to metaphorically throughout her life seeking advice and direction.
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