BOOKS

Books can be purchased at Amazon.com and Valley Pharmacy, DeMotte, IN.

 

MY NEWEST BOOK https://www.amazon.com/MEMOIR-THAT-WASNT-Janeen-Swart/dp/B0FZLGPC1L/ref

THE MEMOIR THAT WASN’T is a rich, detailed, and humor-filled memoir, spanning family stories, small-town life, and the quirks of growing up in a Dutch-American household in Indiana. The narrative unfolds through a series of chapters that delve into the unique family dynamics that shaped the author’s upbringing.

The memoir brings to life the cherished church traditions that played a pivotal role in the community. Amidst the laughter and joy, the text also navigates through more poignant moments of loss. The author skillfully intertwines these themes with tales of pranks and community events, showcasing the vibrant spirit and resiliency of a close-knit neighborhood.

The storytelling is infused with wit and wisdom, providing a nostalgic look at the simple yet profound moments that define a childhood filled with love, laughter, and life lessons. Overall, this memoir invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the enchanting quirks that make family life.

A VISIT HOME: Discussion Questions

  1. Was selling (or adopting out) two children the best solution for Catherine and Tom’s parents?
  2. Should the townspeople be held accountable for what was happening to Tom and Catherine?
  3. Do you think Emily and Jacob were too good to be true? Have you ever met a similar devout couple?
  4. Without Tom deciding to join the army, do you think he and Sarah would have stayed together?
  5. Would you have forgiven Sarah for her Dear John letter if you were Tom?
  6. Home is an important theme in this story. Discuss the meaning of home for Tom and Catherine.
  7. Barn animals play a big part in this novel, especially the milk cow, Susie. Compare Susie’s disposition to Tom’s.
  8. Compare Gerrit’s funeral with Jacob’s.
  9. Do you think Catherine burned the buildings on the VanVleet farm? If so, was that a good way for her to deal with her pain?
  10. What do the different ‘barns’ symbolize for Tom? for Catherine?
  11. Ultimately, who is responsible for Gerrit’s death? Discuss the revelation about how Gerrit died.
  12. Do you think Tom and Catherine were justified in their final dealings with Gerrit?
  13. Jacob said, “Keeping secrets will eat at your soul.” Should Tom have admitted to what he had done at this point since he knew Jacob was dying?
  14. In the epilogue, Tom states that he believes he’s been forgiven. Is murder a forgivable sin?