The 1950's come alive in Shirley Skufca Hickman's memoir, Family is Forever. A typical teenager, Shirley loves to dance, attend slumber parties, play in her high school's award-winning band, and sing in a girls' triple trio. Dreaming of becoming an actress, she stars in several high school plays. She enjoys her teenage years until her father's death shatters her family. Without his love and support, their security is threatened. Shirley and her sisters, Mary and Vera, offer to drop out of school and support the family. Because their mother, a strong and intelligent woman, was forced to leave school after the eighth grade, she insists her daughters continue their education at all costs. Her parents had cashed in her father's life insurance policy to make the down payment for their house and they have nothing. If they cannot pay the mortgage, they might lose their home. Although relatives and friends offer their support, the family must call upon their courage, resilience and love for one another to cope with this tragic loss. *** "Shirley writes beautifully about the heartbreaking death of her father." - Jann McGuire, author "In a world fraught with disillusion, this book gives hope and inspiration." - Bill Silveira, Retired Judge "Shirley did a wonderful job portraying the time period. I loved it." - Marilyn Meredith, Author of the Deputy Tempe Crabtree mysteries. "You will close this book feeling as if you've met a new friend. - Brent Gill, author "Shirley's book is a must for your personal library. - Raghavendra Rao, M.D., Author