A Boy Growing Up During The Great Depression Paperback – August 23, 2013

Amazon's work in opening up self publishing to the masses has been nothing less than a revolution and one of the benefits has been the ability of people publish non-sensational memoirs. Mr. Hallen is not a celebrity. He's not famous. He isn't an idol nor is he any more a hero than you or I. None of that makes him less interesting nor the times he lived through less important. I think it's quite the opposite.This is good reading and fills in a lot information about the lives of my parents and grandparents that I didn't really understand. For that alone, it makes the book more pertinent, more relevant to you and I than any of them. You should be reading this -- and its like -- because these people have something to share. Something that's been missing in our modern lives. A connection to our culture and our true past.

This book was engaging and funny and sad and amazing at the same time. Growing up in Northbook, IL many years after the depression, I loved reading about sites and people whose names I knew. Reading about buildings and businesses that were still in town, people that streets ands parks are named after, and the freedom a young man had at that time were amazing. I think everyone can enjoy it, but if you are familiar with the location, or the Chicago area in general, it will be even more meaningful.

This book was written by my uncle and gave me family history I had never knew. Overall, a book written with love and feelings by a boy who grew up in the depression era in the Chicago area. Worthwhile read for all ages.

A great read for anyone who grew up during thegrea depression. Brings back many of those memories that you had forgotten.It's an easy read.

I really enjoyed this book. Just Hallen shares his recollections of growing up during the Great Depression in a way that takes you back to that time. The descriptions of the people and places make you feel like you are there with them. It's not only a story of his own life, but shows how people interacted and struggled and helped each other during that time. We usually hear of doom and gloom in this period of time, but this book shows how people not only survived, but thrived and still enjoyed life. The book has many great memories and I'm glad Just Hallen shared them with us.

I enjoyed reading about a real person describing real life during the days of the Depression. I know the town of Northbrook and the descriptions are accurate. I even know the peony farm he grew up on! I am grateful that Just Hallen took the time to document this historical time. Definitely make my kids read this to appreciate all they have.