Review of Where the Waves Come to Rest

[Florence Daniel]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Where the Waves Come to Rest" by Spyridoula Selma Contos.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Authors who write about their personal experiences to guide the younger generation are true gems. Their books serve as blueprints for youth, offering invaluable lessons and insights drawn from real-life trials and triumphs. Through their stories, these authors provide wisdom and guidance that help shape the paths of those who follow, making their contributions not only literary treasures but also essential tools for personal growth and development. The book Where the Waves Come to Rest by Spyridoula Selma Contos is one such book because the author tells us about her story to guide generations through life and help them learn the lessons she learned.

"Where the Waves Come to Rest" depicts the life of Spyridoula, who lived in extreme poverty on the Greek island of Kefalonia with her family. The novel explores her physical and emotional struggles, entwined with her idyllic childhood recollections. Spyridoula had to face the emotional wounds she had carried over the years, even though she and her family had immigrated to the United States. She learned to accept God's love for her to cope with these wounds. Did Spyridoula know God's love for sure? Did she and her family flourish in America despite being poor immigrants? Discover the significance of comprehending God's love for you by reading this great book.

This book details a captivating memoir that chronicles the author’s life journey from her humble beginnings in a small mountain town on the Greek island of Kefalonia to building a new life in America. Through vivid recollections of family, cultural traditions, and the traumatic 1953 earthquake, Contos explores themes of resilience, faith, and love. She delves into her struggles with self-worth, the challenges of immigration, and the pursuit of educational and professional aspirations alongside her husband, Aristides. Ultimately, the narrative is a testament to overcoming adversity, discovering a profound sense of spirituality, and the importance of legacy and familial bonds.

My favorite character in this book is Spyridoula herself. Her determination in the face of numerous hardships is truly inspiring. From enduring the devastating earthquake in Kefalonia to navigating the challenges of immigration and cultural adaptation in America, her journey of self-discovery, overcoming feelings of inadequacy, and striving for a better future for herself and her family is captivating.

I rate this book five out of five stars for its heartfelt and compelling narrative. The author masterfully intertwines personal history with broader cultural and historical contexts, offering readers an intimate glimpse into life on the Greek island of Kefalonia and the immigrant experience in America. The author's journey of overcoming adversity, maintaining faith, and achieving personal and professional goals is both inspiring and uplifting.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy memoirs that explore themes of resilience, cultural heritage, and personal growth. The book is exceptionally edited, and I have no dislike for it.

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Where the Waves Come to Rest
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[Amy Luman]

I am not a big fan of memoirs. They always tend to tell the story of someone who was born disadvantaged, it by their own hard work and dedication were able to overcome and become well-off in one way or another. The underlying theme strikes me as though the reader is somehow less than if they are unable to do the same. Thanks!

[Julius Peters]

I admire Spyridoula's unwavering determination and strength in the face of adversity, from surviving the 1953 earthquake to navigating the challenges of immigration. Her journey of self-discovery and finding God's love amidst hardship is a powerful testament to the human spirit.

[Robert Cortes]

As a prospective reader, this review of "Where the Waves Come to Rest" by Spyridoula Selma Contos presents the book as an inspiring and heartfelt memoir that offers invaluable life lessons and insights. The story of Spyridoula's journey from extreme poverty on the Greek island of Kefalonia to building a new life in America is both compelling and uplifting.

[Sean Patrick Tracy]

"Where the Waves Come to Rest" by Spyridoula Selma Contos, this review paints a vivid and enticing picture of the memoir's depth and emotional resonance. The story of Spyridoula's journey from extreme poverty on the Greek island of Kefalonia to building a new life in America offers a rich tapestry of resilience, faith, and familial love. The themes of overcoming adversity and discovering spirituality resonate deeply, making it a potentially uplifting and inspiring read.

[Sunday N Florence]

The book delves into Spyridoula's emotional and physical struggles, including the traumatic impact of a devastating earthquake and the challenges of adapting to life in a new country.