Street Corner Dreams: A Novel

In the streets of Brooklyn during the Depression, Golda, Ben, and Morty struggle to survive as a family while being pressured by Jewish and Italian gangs. When Ben makes a dangerous choice, Morty is forced to desert his family and the woman he loves. Will he ever find a safe way back home?

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2023
Publisher: She Writes Press

A captivating and intricate tale that seamlessly weaves together elements of family saga, love story, and gangster drama, "Street Corner Dreams" is a book club read that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. Set just before the outbreak of World War I, the story follows Golda, a young woman who arrives in America with a burning desire for independence. However, her dreams are temporarily put on hold when she marries her widowed brother-in-law after her sister passes away, leaving behind a newborn son, Morty.

As Golda and her family settle into the bustling streets of Brooklyn, they navigate a world filled with rival Jewish and Italian gangs. These gangs demand protection money from local storekeepers and lure young individuals with the promise of wealth and power. Golda, her husband Ben, and their son Morty thrive in this environment, finding a sense of belonging and purpose amidst the chaos.

However, the onset of the Depression brings with it a series of challenges that test the strength of the family. Ben, faced with financial ruin, makes a dangerous and life-altering choice that sets the course for their future. Morty, determined to save his father, seeks help from a gangster friend, but the situation quickly escalates, leaving him trapped in a web of danger and deceit.

As Morty is forced to desert his family and the woman he loves in order to survive, he embarks on a desperate journey back home. Will he ever find a safe way back? Or has his involvement with the gang sealed his fate?

"Street Corner Dreams" is a profound exploration of the complex relationships between family, loyalty, and personal aspirations. Florence Reiss Kraut's writing is masterful, drawing the reader into the lives of her characters and immersing them in the gritty and tumultuous world of early 20th-century New York City. The book is filled with vivid descriptions, rich characters, and unexpected plot twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.

In conclusion, "Street Corner Dreams" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking themes. With its rich tapestry of characters and intricate plot, this book offers a unique and captivating perspective on the sacrifices we make for the people we love and the choices that shape our lives.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 141 x 216 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647425913