What an interesting journey the author has taken. Growing up in a middle class Jewish home I never thought there were poor Jews, let alone, alcoholic Jews. Andrea Kott has woven her story into a tight narrative that takes us into the world of a little girl trying to win her troubled mother's love and reconcile her Jewish identity (or lack of). Despite moving frequently, observing her mother's alcoholic binges and depression, she had the reliable love of her brother. It's a touching story that takes us through the life of an smart little girl who learns early in life to protect herself and later in life, to embrace her Jewishness. It was a captivating read.