Customer Reviews

The Years of Tears

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4 star:		(1)
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Once I started reading "Years of Tears", I did not put it down until I was at the last page! I wanted to know what would happen to Gabriel and Carlos next; would they receive any kind treatment after all the cruelties they endured? I always "knew" of orphanages, but I really didn't know the extent of the weak-minded authority figures that could be so cruel. The strength of the boys character, and their love for each other in the face of all they lived through is truly a miracle.

The Years of Tears describes the early life of two abandoned brothers trapped in a punitive, church run social welfare system. The cruelties inflicted on the two boys by those who use and abuse their power over them are vividly depicted. A few bright spots involve the unexpected kindness of strangers, but the overall picture is dark. The relationship between the brothers, particularly the protective and caring behavior of the older toward the younger,is inspiring. This story will surprise you, haunt you and involve you.

With all the recent church abuse cases you mostly can only guess what is was like for the children of abuse and left on their own, and with no parents to ease the pain years later. Now you can read a heart felt detailed account of two boys left alone to find their way through a church oprhanage. Great story about growing up alone and how they came through it all.

This is a truly inspiring story. I could not put it down. The story is exceptionally well written. The experiences of the main characters will make you cry, then smile, and then cry some more. It is very emotional, yet so easy to read. It is full of complexity; and you will be thinking about the story for many days afterwards. This is one of the best books I have ever read.

The biography of Carlos and Gabriel shows two boys who overcame all adversities to become the good souls they were obviously meant to be. The Years of Tears touched many of my own childhood memories to remind me that I am strong, and that I also developed alot of character from my experiences. Never is one horrible experience better or worse than another, so I am able to relate to both of these young men. Thank you, Edwin Abreu, for bringing back to me the realization that I can and will accomplish all that I set my mind to.