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The Art of the Memoir
A Memoir-like Novel: Beyond Mud and Vines
A Review, by Christopher Mahon | Writers
Monthly
Then there are those tales where someone comes out of the world
of the voiceless with their own story, and tells it in his or her
own voice. No one speaks for them, really. They speak for themselves...
...So many silent stories hang on the faces of the people we meet
in the street, or, perhaps, on the other side of a counter. Beyond
Mud and Vines can implant one vivid story in your heart, so
that you can look at your own life in a new way; and so that you
can look at every other (stranger’s) face that you meet and
wonder: Where has that person come from? What struggle has brought
him or her to this place? Does he or she deserve to be honored simply
by virtue of the silent story that beats within his or her heart?
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Dear Mrs. Jorgensen,
My coworkers and I work for Children's services, and are circulating
your book. It has become part of our daily conversation, i.e.
learning about your culture, and the various struggles that
you have encountered in your transition and enculturation
into the American "way of life." It is empowering
to see how you have grown and gained tremendous inner strength
during your marriage and in raising your children. I go home
and share what I have learned with my husband because your
life is so fascinating...
Your book is informative. It provides a cultural perspective
of the Puerto Rican people and the various struggles that
took place during the 1940's and 1950's. It also provides
insight into an immigrant perspective faced with learning
a new way of life, and not being valued by the host country,
who expect you (the individual) to change, and that they (the
host country and the individual) would do nothing or least
possible to accommodate. Your experience with your husband,
Mr. Wilson, provided insight into many women's issues. Your
struggle was very apparent, and I wanted to hit him in the
head too! These multiple perspectives allow one to gleam (sic)
from your experience and apply it in any discipline, especially
working with children and families.
I just about finished with the sequel, and I am waiting to
read about your return to your home country. What is in store????
I have enjoyed reading about your life, and wish you well.
Thank you.
April 2003
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A reviewer, an author from TN, April 1, 2003 
A moving story of courage and faith
It really is true. Truth is stranger than fiction. While reading
this book, I had to continually remind myself that it was a true
story. Amazing. Not only was the story compelling, but the author's
description and imagery made this book a rare pleasure in today's
plot-driven, bare-bones literary landscape. I've never been to Puerto
Rico, but I feel like I have after reading 'Beyond Mud and Vines.'
Cathy
WOW!! BESTSELLER QUALITY!
I started reading this book on Saturday morning and finished it
by Sunday afternoon-430 or so pages, WOW! Couldn't put it down and
forced myself to stay awake to continue reading until my eyes were
so blurry I couldn't stay awake any longer. The author's descriptive
writing skills allows the reader to visualize her story in your
head as if a movie was playing. I am impressed with the author and
I am amazed at her accomplishments. She is to be commended for all
that she is and all that emerged from a environment that is unimaginable
to most people.
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