What’s in a name? Everything. As someone who has gone through the entire official argy-bargy to get my name legally changed, I appreciate the power behind the monikers we bear. Sally Cronin obviously shares this sensibility because this short story collection focuses on the unique power our names have to shape our lives.
Sometimes even a small change can be significant, as the first story, titled “Anne,” demonstrates so well. Just a small shift–to Annie–had great meaning to the woman who bore it. It shaped her entire sense of self, and went on to have meaning in her extended family as well.
Each tale has a given name as a significant factor. The names we bear become the basis of our own stories, as well as the foundation for the tales in this book.
Besides “Anne,” my favorites were “Celia,” “David,” and “George.” But give this book a read, and you’ll find favorites of your own. You can read the “Look Inside” here: https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Name-Sally-Cronin-ebook/dp/B01N6Y8BK1/.
Share this:
Avid writer and reader of Faerie tales and noblebright fantasy.
Cathleen Townsend 
Lovely review of Sally’s book, Cathleen. Sally is a gem.
LikeLiked by 2 people
She really is. And she can write, too. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
So true
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much John… always a gem yourself. hugs
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Sally. I love Edinburgh.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much for spreading the word, Chris. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Welcome, Cathleen 😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for sharing Chris.. a lovely treat this afternoon. hugs xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
My pleasure, Sally ❤️
LikeLiked by 2 people
I love this book!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great minds think alike. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Annette.. and for all you support… hugs xxxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can relate. Always kept my name exactly as it is. Have NEVER understood why women take men’s name upon marriage. I know I carry my father’s name (and not my mother’s) and my favorite way of doing last name is the Spanish way. But perhaps this book is mainly about first names?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Mostly it’s about first names. But any part of your name is a deeply personal thing. I’m so glad for you that your given name is one you were happy to keep. 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you Elizabeth and both your names are wonderful. The stories are about first names.. rarely do we get to choose our own and I do wonder about some of the celebrities who have children constantly reminded of where they were conceived or are a compass direction.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. I particularly love my name because I chose it. My original wasn’t quite as bad as a compass name, but I’m relieved to be shut of it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I liked this book too, Cathleen. Wonderful stories.
LikeLiked by 2 people
They really were. And the underlying unifying theme is one that really spoke to me. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you Diana.. wearing a big smile.. hugs xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m planning to post a review next week, Sally. It was a wonderful part of my vacation. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks Diana.. I hope that you had a wonderful time… hugs x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on Writing for the Whole Darn Universe.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much for helping to get the word out there. 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you very much again Malia.. hugs xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Cathleen for this lovely review and I am so touched that the theme meant so much to you. You are very generous.. hugs Sally
LikeLiked by 2 people
It was my pleasure, Sally. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful review of Sally’s book Cathleen – you have highlighted the very qualities I so adore in her stories. Shared on Social media
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much for helping to spread the word. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Paul… your support always means a great deal to me. hugs xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sally’s book in on my kindle and I’m looking forward the read! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I think you’ll enjoy it, Bette.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Bette… I hope you enjoy when you read… hugs xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Lyn Horner's Corner.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much. 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing Lyn. hugs xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is such an interesting premise for a story collection – compelling idea!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you very much… glad you like the concept..
LikeLiked by 1 person
A lovely review of Sally’s book. I have it and will be starting with it soon.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks Robbie… much appreciated as always.. hugs xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for sharing this lovely review, Cathleen! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was my pleasure. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
My thanks to Cathleen Townsend for her lovely review for What’in a Name…..a terrific end to the week.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was an excellent book review, Cathleen.
Thank you for sharing Sally’s work. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was glad to do it. Sally has been so generous in cross-promoting others. 🙂
LikeLike
The blurb is intriguing!…. Sounds like a great book 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well worth the read if you find yourself in the mood for some contemporary short stories. 🙂
LikeLike
A great review of a fabulous little book by a great author and blogger. Thanks!
LikeLike