Book Report

Book Report
In these times of the 21st century the last couple of American generations might not have the knowledge of what Ellis Island was and what it represented. Even though many of our ancestors came through the federally operated point of entry and was processed into the United States in the early 20th century as incoming immigrants. First entering Ellis Island, New York by steam ship coming from Europe and northern Asia. Sailing to America in deplorable conditions in the ship’s hold or steerage. Not knowing if they would be granted entrance to America or be sent back home on the next ship.
This historical novel depicts a young Italian woman attempting to enter America looking for a new beginning . She is escaping physical abuse back home in Italy leaving all no matter what it takes. On the other end of the spectrum is a young German-American woman who starts her new job as matron assisting both immigrants and Ellis Island inspectors. helping to process the immigrant through the lengthy convoluted and most difficult system. Giving directions or acting as translator.
The title of the book is, “The next Ship Home,” A novel of Ellis Island, by Heather Webb. Published 2022
Library of Congress annotation:

“Ellis Island, 1902: Two women band together to hold America to its promise: “Give me your tired, your poor … your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…” A young Italian woman arrives on the shores of America, her sights set on a better life. That same day, a young American woman reports to her first day of work at the immigration center. But Ellis Island isn’t a refuge for Francesca or Alma, not when ships depart every day with those who are refused entry to the country and when corruption ripples through every corridor. While Francesca resorts to desperate measures to ensure she will make it off the island, Alma fights for her dreams of becoming a translator, even as women are denied the chance. As the two women face the misdeeds of a system known to manipulate and abuse immigrants searching for new hope in America, they form an unlikely friendship?and share a terrible secret? This is a novel of the dark secrets of Ellis Island.
Again, the book, The next ship home, a novel of Ellis Island.
This is almost the perfect fast page turning summer read. I liked it. You will too. Read the darn thing. Includes some obligatory romance but not much. If you read it you might learn something about Ellis Island as well. Historical fiction.