Review of Hard Times, you say? Smile, this is the Great Depression

Bahrin Alexandru Florin · Post by **Bahrin Alexandru Florin** » 20 Feb 2025, 02:52

I love this review for this book. "Hard Time, you say? Smile, This is The Great Depression” is an amazing book that provides a lesson on how to deal with hard times and fight through economic chaos. The book tells the story of two young people who lose their jobs due to the economic crisis. In their journey to find a job, they encounter and face difficult problems that put their lives in danger. How did they manage to triumph? If you are attracted to her and want to discover the whole story, I invite you to read it. You won't regret it. I loved it like crazy.

Post by **Sandeep Moses Arulnesan** » 20 Feb 2025, 02:56

I like the book's title. It gives the readers an idea about the book's plot. Michael and Gunther's life after the Great Depression is a nice take involving a historical incident and a fictional story. Thanks for the review. Congrats on the BOTD!

Jack Winnick · Post by **mrlefty0706** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:09

"Hard Times, you say? Smile, this is the Great Depression" by R. Leslie Howe is a historical fiction novel that takes place during the Great Depression that began when the stock market crashed in October 1929. The main character is Michael, a finance graduate who has to face unemployment after the crash. The sample provides details on the early life of Gunther who is an English literature graduate that has a speech impediment that was caused by a car accident caused by a reckless driver trying to pass his parent’s car. Gunther survived but was in a coma for months and it took many years for him to recover. His parents were killed and he went to live with his grandparents. When his grandparents died his “Aunt” Marge raised Gunther and remained in his life. Michael meets Gunther after the stock market crash while looking for work and they both face hostility from local hoodlums. Michael and Hunter become close friends after sharing a violent confrontation with other men looking for work. The two of them travel to Syracuse and become hobos riding trains in search of work. They make friends with experienced hobos and eventually find employment with a bakery owner that was growing his business. Michael and Gunther become really close friends after Michael saves Gunther during a knife attack by Jake and his gang. This job causes them to move to Shanty Town where they meet Leo and Gretta, who are leaders in the community. Michael finds love with Leo’s daughter Celia while Gunther lifelong love of reading books enables him to befriend Professor Karl and he ends up falling in love with Pauline, a.k.a. Daisy, who is caught up in her father Frank’s involvement in the mafia. Gunther’s relationship with Daisy is threatened by Anthony, a mafia member who wants to marry Daisy. One needs to read the book to learn how Gunther overcomes Anthony and wins Daisy’s heart. My parents grew up during the depression and I kept thinking about how resilient they had to be. I pray we will never experience another crash of that magnitude. This book is a great read and it should be nominated for BOTM.

Abiodunakinola · Post by **Abiodunakinola** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:26

This book seems to balance historical accuracy with compelling character development. The friendship between Michael and Gunther, along with their struggles as Hobos, seems to highlight both the hardships and resilience of that era. Nice review.

Post by **Ajiferuke Ajibola** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:28

I love your captivating review of "Hard Times, you say? Smile, this is the Great Depression" by R. Leslie Howe. Michael and Gunther's shared adversities truly strengthened their bond. The summary that the novel is a testament to the human spirit, showcasing the ability to find hope, love, and success in the face of adversity is apt. Congrats on BOTD.

Mercy Bolo · Post by **Mercy Bolo** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:32

This historical fiction novel takes readers to the Great Depression era—an unemployed banker teams up with a struggling literature graduate. The story follows their lives as they search for work and try to stay afloat during the Depression. The many characters they meet enrich the story.

Armin1 · Post by **Armin1** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:47

A historical fiction that reminds us of our luxury. Many of us whine even at a slightest discomfort. The set up is based during the great depression and follows a broke finance graduate Michael and his ordeals. One should read the book to be thankful for the privileged life most of us lead.

Runan · Post by **Runan** » 20 Feb 2025, 03:58

The Great Depression posed financial struggles for many. Michael, a finance graduate, and Gunther, an English literature graduate, travel together for survival. They do labor work and travel as “Hobos,” entangled with mafia and also fall in love. The story speaks of resilience, hope, and hard work.

Post by **Amy_Jackson** » 20 Feb 2025, 04:37

The title of the book readily brought a smile to my face. And the story is rich. Friendships forged during times of hardship are deep and impactful. I'm glad to see that Michael and Gunther didn't let the Great Depression pull them down, but they went on to have happier and more meaningful lives.

Janet Kimetto · Post by **Janet Kimetto** » 20 Feb 2025, 04:43

I like the title! "Hard Times, you say? Smile, this is the Great Depression," through Michael and Gunther, offers insight into the people's struggles and resilience during the Great Depression. Thank you for the review!

Azubuike J Azi · Post by **Azubuike J Azi** » 20 Feb 2025, 04:47

"Hard Times, you say? Smile, this is the Great Depression" by R. Leslie Howe. Seems to be an interesting book to read I like the detailed review of this book picked my interest although I'm not a huge fan of fiction books I like to check it out congrats on your BOTD