A Bowl of Cherries

Look no further than A Bowl of Cherries if you want to read a compelling story about victory over some of the toughest circumstances imaginable. More happened in Tekla Miller's young life than one would think possible outside of a Hollywood scriptwriter's imagination: her father's injury in a train wreck and his subsequent death, discovery of her mother's suicide, abuse by her brother-in-law, rape, extreme poverty, flight, fire and third-degree burns, deprivation. These difficulties might have made Tekla Miller bitter and hard. Instead, with the help of her equally remarkable sister Alyce, Tekla learned how to use her personal tragedies like refining fire, and emerged strong, certainly defiant, immensely capable, happy, and with a great sense of humor intact. In recounting her story, Ms. Miller leavens the dramatic saga of her teen years with funny moments (check out driving lessons, Tekla-style, and you'll never want your own child behind the wheel of a car!), always showing herself to be quick-witted and up to the task of coping with whatever challenges come her way. Her sister, too, showed great ingenuity in creating a life for Tekla and her own children that approximated normal, while getting her own college degree and ensuring Tekla did as well--all during an era when women were facing great odds against independence. This memoir celebrates the extraordinary love between two sisters and the great triumph possible in even the most difficult life. This is truly a book to add courage and heart to every reader.