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Come On In,

Don’t Get Lonesome

Let yourself be transported to Tacoma, Washington in 1910. Immigrants flock to the “City of Destiny” to find work at the Tideflats, railroad, waterfront, and sawmills, to pursue the American Dream. A lucky few have found a home at the Old Alpha, a boarding house with the slogan: “Come on in, don’t get lonesome!” Amidst the hustle and bustle of activity in the boarding house lives a little girl named Myrtle. She is intrigued by the stories and friendships she makes with the immigrant men boarding at the Old Alpha on Tacoma Avenue South. This tender story will touch your heart as you follow the life of this inquisitive little girl and the boarders who share her home in a boom town.

Lauri Cruver Cherian tells a tale based on her ancestors of a century ago and the immigrant workers who lived in their boarding house.  She uses abundant period details to create vivid scenes that transport the reader to the early 1900’s in the Puget Sound area, including references to historical events and people. So, come on in, everyone is welcome at the Old Alpha on Tacoma Avenue South!

A feel-good book all ages will enjoy!

Reviews:

“Ms. Cherian has done a beautiful job of painting the formative years of the region in a sepia toned recollection. It was effortless to dip into the chapters."  -Chris Staudinger of Pretty Gritty Tours, journalist, historian, and guide of walking tours of Tacoma and author of Secret Tacoma

*

 “Here is a beautiful story, told by a gifted author, based on her ancestors of a century ago and the immigrant workers who lived in their boarding house. It resonates with perfect characterizations, a compelling plot, and an abundance of memorable moments. Like this bit of sage advice handed down from Lauri Cruver Cherian’s great grandfather: “So, you must smile and be full of nice talk, greet people happily, and tell some old story.” This is a fine old story indeed, that made me not only smile but hang on to that quote as a mantra and a bright star to steer by.” -Ron Rozelle, author of The Windows of Heaven

*

“Love, love, loved it! I can’t wait for everyone else to enjoy it as well. Such an endearing story of a curious and intelligent little girl and the colorful characters that filled her world. Based on factual people and places in our Pacific Northwest history. I guarantee it will draw you in!” -Suzette Dron Gradilla

*

“Just like the slogan, "You'll like Tacoma!", you will LOVE the newest adventure by Lauri Cruver Cherian. From the start we are sitting in the parlor, gathered around the piano with the boarders. Like Myrtle, we learn about a men and women whose stories represent the familiar in our own familial pasts. We explore Puget Sound with orca sightings, clam digging, taffy pulling with a young girl who knows no strangers. Reader, there is freedom in experiencing the joys and sorrows of life through the lens of innocence and curiosity. The author captures this whimsical tale based on her own family history. Be prepared for the desire to dig deeper into your own roots after reading this. Well done, Lauri. Well done.”- Ande Larsen, librarian Lake Jackson Public Library