Readers find the book a compelling yet challenging read, praising its deep dive into family history and emotional narrative, especially concerning the author's mother. While many appreciate the rich historical context and the poignant portrayal of familial relationships, others struggle with the book's dense genealogical details and slow start. The narrative's blend of personal and historical insights generally holds the reader's interest once past the initial complexity.

👍 Poignant portrayal of familial relationships

👎 Initial complexity and slow start