A very emotional story that will bring tears to the reader’s eyes and occasional laughter. The way Joe reconnects with his daughter is beautiful, and rediscovering her real father seems to have been a beautiful journey in itself. The story is told from the perspective of Gemini Joe, a man with sensitivity, a party man who’d always succeeded in making people laugh and have a good time, but who was never easy to deal with at home. I also enjoyed the moving, very inspiring poems that open the chapters, poems by the protagonist. This is a story that compels me to revisit my story with my own father. My relationship with my father has never been a great one and, after reading this book, I begin to wonder if he’s been deeply hurt as well? Janet Sierzant tells a story of hurt, addiction, and redemption, and makes readers understand that those who hurt others are themselves hurting deeply, and that behind the ugliness we may notice in some people that there is a wellspring of beauty waiting to burst forth. At times, it needs only a little attention to draw from that wellspring. This memoir is deeply human and intensely satisfying.

I loved reading Gemini Joe: Memoirs of Brooklyn and it had my attention right from the beginning to the end. It is a simple story of an ordinary life, but that is precisely what makes it special. I enjoyed reading about all of the day-to-day life in their household with the big Italian dinners, fishing, sports, daily life, their connection with what is known as “the Mafia,” and so much more. Janet is able to write as a silent observer and this to her credit because the narrative genuinely feels like Joe talking to the reader and, at times, to his daughter. It’s a very engaging and well-written book and probably one of my favorite memoirs I have read in a long time!

This is a story that explores family dynamics, addiction, love and friendship, and one man’s journey towards inner freedom. It is deeply moving, inspiring, and told well. Gemini Joe, memoirs of Brooklyn has great emotional depth and explores the psychology of an alienated child. As a memoir, it’s a great success; a true story rendered vividly in the reader’s mind.