Testimonials

“This book is a story born of the pain of immigration, but also out of the flame for
freedom of one’s homeland from oppression that never died. Told skillfully by Jack
Cashman in the form of a novel it is a story that indeed transcends Ireland alone.
It is indeed also an American story. It reminds us painfully of the severe obstacles
many other immigrant peoples faced. But in the end by dint of hard work and
sacrifice they became part of the fabric of America – while never forgetting who
they were in their newfound land.”

“Mr. Cashman, I just read American Valor and I wanted to thank you for the experience. Your story combines my love of local history and BPD in a manner that makes it seem more like a memory than fiction. As an author, I appreciate your diligent research and your ability to bring the past and your characters to life. Although my time with the department came much later than your storyline, I could feel the excitement of Hell’s Half Acre and smell the old iron cells on Court St. I felt right at home. Thank you for a great read and a glimpse of Bangor’s past.”

“Wonderful historical story about a family and it’s involvement with war. How two sons enlisted leaving the family farm. Hard to put down. Good historical read.”

“Well done Mr. Cashman. Combining history with fiction is not easy, You accomplished it well telling the story of one Irish immigrant family fighting for dignity here in the US and in their homeland of Ireland.”

“I read and enjoyed Jack Cashman’s previous book, An Irish Immigrant’s Story, so I was curious to see how he would approach a 1970s period legal and assassin story. I found it pretty enjoyable. The writing is in a different style than I’m used to, with less detail and description. A few minor grammar errors were evident and I found some of the dialogue a little stilted for my taste.

Despite that, I legitimately stayed up late to finish the book. I cared about the characters and their outcomes. The plot moved forward quickly and came to a satisfying conclusion. There were a few times where another writer might have been tempted to add unnecessary drama, but Jack Cashman was more restrained and I appreciate that.”

“Vividly and simply written, this story of Love, Faith, Family and Survival is a testament to the strength of Mainers from “The County”.
After hearing Mr Cashman’s interview on WVOM in Bangor, Maine I bought the book immediately. Wow! What a rich life the Pelletier’s lived! Rich in all that is meaningful, love of God, Country and Family. I enjoyed it thoroughly!”

“This was a great book. I loved it. And a new author for me. I got a copy of the book.”

“The story captivates from the start whether or not of Irish heritage. It is a book that is hard to put down and keeps me hurrying to the next chapter.”

“The story is a reminder of the fact that all Immigrant groups faced adversity when arriving in a foreign land. Determination and some desperation as well as working as a community helped then assimilate and succeed. That said they did not forget the starving, persecuted brothers left behind. An enlightening, thought provoking read that I totally enjoyed.”

“I enjoyed the composition of this book. The blending of fiction and reality of the times kept my interest throughout the entire book. Although my Irish heritage did not include the era of prejudice, I was certainly made aware of much of it by my parents.”

“A great read. Two thumbs up.”

Just finished reading this new release from Jack Cashman. It is a poignant portrayal of America over the past 80 years. It examines and analyzes the New Deal Era through the current years in America. Truly a professional been of factual data embedded into the story of a fictional character. A worthwhile read to see where we were, where we are, and how we evolved into this country we have become! Jack lays it out for you clearly. Recommended for everyone, especially for those of us who are public policy/government enthusiasts.

I very much enjoyed this story as it is the story of my family too. The love, support and hard work of these immigrants carries down through the generations after them. It is a story for today as well…