Review of Mamma & Me

[Lauren Hanna]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Mamma & Me" by Eloisa B. Lucas.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

In her book, Mamma & Me, the author, Eloisa B. Lucas, reflects on her life. A wide range of topics is revealed, including her childhood, surviving the Second World War, getting married, becoming a mother, balancing her career, and coping with loss. Most of her memories took place in the Philippines, where she was born and raised; others are from California, where she lives as an adult. In describing her early years, the author revealed multiple shocking revelations. Eloisa B. Lucas shared several uplifting memories of her mother, Amalia Granados Alvarez, but others were serious.

The memory that I most appreciated was in regards to the author's late daughter, Judy, and her mother. Each week the family traveled to the Holy Cross Memorial Park to visit Judy. Mamma always remembered to bring flowers to the park. If Mamma could not accompany the family, she would have her daughter buy flowers for Judy's grave. She insisted on having something from her. Mamma’s thoughtfulness demonstrated her love for her family.

I enjoyed learning about the author's early life in the Philippines. The memories she shared were fascinating, entertaining, as well as educating. Eloisa B. Lucas gave a detailed description of her harrowing experience during the Second World War. It was intense and horrific to read about what she and her family endured and how traumatic it was for her. I appreciated her honesty in telling her story. Also included in the book are several photographs of the author with her family; this was a delightful personal touch.

There was nothing about this book that I disliked. Mamma & Me is a heartfelt memoir about family, loss, legacy, and decades of memories. It is a beautifully written tribute from a daughter to her mother.

I enjoyed following the author’s journey through life. Eloisa B. Lucas provided just enough detail, and the story flowed nicely. I read Mamma & Me in one day, as it is a short book and a quick read. For these reasons, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.

I recommend this non-fiction story to everyone. Those who grew up in the 1940s and the 1950s may relate to some of the author's memories. Anyone interested in learning about life during this time in the Philippines is encouraged to read this book. Those who reside in or have visited the Philippines may also appreciate Mamma & Me. The subjects of the author's ordeal during the Second World War and the loss of loved ones may be triggers for some readers.

******
Mamma & Me
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Bri Denzel]

I'd love to read about the author's childhood, surviving the Second World War, getting married, becoming a mother, balancing her career, and coping with loss. That's a lot of information to take in.