The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio: How My Mother Raised 10 Kids on 25 Words or Less Review

This book fits into the category of a memoir, although it is not a true memoir. The story is told by the middle child of 10 children, Terry Ryan. It is more of a tribute to Terry's mother who somehow reared her children during the 50's and 60's on less than $90/week. Evelyn Lehman Ryan, who graduated at the top of her class in high school, would have become a writer or journalist. Instead, she married a man who eventually became an alcoholic and with his drinking consumed 1/3 of his paycheck every week. In an age where most women did not work outside their homes, and as a mother at a young age, how was Evelyn to cope?

This remarkable mother turned her wordsmith abilities into contest entering expertise that won her cash for groceries, clothing, household goods, gifts, and every other necessity of life. Have you ever wondered about the ones who penned those Burma Shave roadsigns? Evelyn was a contributer.

This book takes a poignant look at Mid-West American small town life on the home front. It's gritty, humorous, and guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings. There were times I wanted to cry with frustration at the plight of this family. Other times I wanted to laugh with joy at their spirit and victories. As a remarkable tribute to this outstanding woman, each of her children successfully attended and graduated college.

I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy reading about the spirit of overcoming against all odds.