Customer Reviews

Past-Forward: ....a three-decade and three-thousand mile journey home....

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I found the author's quest for the truth fascinating. Everyone would like to be able to unravel some forgotten mysteries to find out the details about their ancestors. Most people however, did not possess the determination or perserverance to stay the course and follow all leads, no matter how seemingly insignificant. This book can be a wonderful learning experience for all would-be family history researchers.

This book captures what life was like during the potato famine in Ireland and a family's strugle to survive. The author's long lived quest and determination to research and unfold the truth about her grandmother's life, which had been a secret up until now. Maureen's journey to Ireland and the fascinating family history she discovered has encourage me to research my roots. I highly recommend reading this book.

I enjoyed reading Past-Forward very much and was immediately drawn into the story of the family history of the writer. Since I am of Russian/Polish ancestory, what I knew about Ireland was from history books. Mrs.Woldarczyk, detailed vividly how cruel the landowners could be especially when the potato famine hit, many of the citizens were forced out of Ireland or risk starvation or death. What I found amazing was the writer was able to trace so many of her roots and possibly walk the same streets that her ancestors might have walked on. When I finished reading the book, I realized that so much of our family history (mine included) probably endured some of the same circumstances forcing them to move from their family and homeland, probably never to return.

Past-Forward is a mix of factual information about the start of many of our families here in the United States and the thought provoking emotions that those immigrants may have experienced. My wife and I had flash backs of Sunday dinner conversations with our grandparents and other older relatives, bringing back the rich heritage that molded our lives and behaviors that we share with our children today. It also finished some of the stories with "untold" details that were never fully discussed due to emotion or shame. A book to share with family members for years to come!

This beautifully written, well researched story is a must read for anyone interested in their own roots.
Ms. Wlodarczyk takes you on her journey with a comfortable and witty writing style. The family saga is fascinating and leaves you wanting more.

The book is a true journey into the past. It made me want to look into my families history. Maureen added spice to the story by including events and people who related to the family to add depth to this story. I know that this was a goal for her and she has accomplished her goal with honors. It is a proud history of her family. Great book!

This book brings to life a loving portrayal of an Immigrant family. It's been so very well researched by the author that the reader feels transported to another time and place. A story of struggles, heartache and strength....but most of all....love.

Genealogy is a budding hobby. This book not only tells a wonderful story, it's a "how to" in a way, as it follows the author from one discovery to the next.
If you have friends or family talking about days gone by who'd like to discover more, this is the book for them.
With guidance from this book's story you can start finding how to answer questions such as "Is that family story really true?"

It's a great gift idea to start the family searching its roots. Or make it a gift to yourself. It's top shelf!

Even if you aren't of Irish descent, you will enjoy this book. It takes you places you wouldn't imagine while researching one's Irish roots, such as the Civil War. Insightful look into Irish historical events. The author's writing style is engaging, with suspense building surrounding a 'mystery' child. By the end of the book, you feel like it's your family she has been researching and wish you could claim some of the 'characters' as your own.
Helpful resources listed in the bibliography for anyone wanting to trace their own family history.

"Past Forward" is a poignant reminder that who we are today is a direct result of the decisions and lives of all the family members who came before us. Throughly enjoyed the visit into the lives of Irish immigrants and Ms. Wlodarczyk's own history. Throughout the book, I felt as though the writer was speaking directly to me, not to her grandmother Kate. A must read for anyone contemplating their own geneology search!