Walking Backwards in Time

Walking Backwards in TimeFrom the innocence of childhood egg creams and a first heartbreaking love, to the unexpected challenges of an abusive marriage, Joanna Berke's life is a tapestry woven with resilience, faith, and the enduring power of connection. In this candid memoir, Berke traces her journey of self discoveryfrom finding her roots in the Jewish faith and the vital camaraderie of her Al Anon friends, to building a new life with her second husband, John, in an idyllic

From the innocence of childhood egg creams and a first heartbreaking love, to the unexpected challenges of an abusive marriage, Joanna Berke's life is a tapestry woven with resilience, faith, and the enduring power of connection.

In this candid memoir, Berke traces her journey of self-discovery—from finding her roots in the Jewish faith and the vital camaraderie of her Al-Anon friends, to building a new life with her second husband, John, in an idyllic cabin.

But her greatest adventure begins with the decision to adopt. What follows is a harrowing, yet ultimately redemptive, experience in Honduras, where political unrest and a corrupt legal system threaten to steal her dream of motherhood. It is in this foreign land that Joanna finds her strongest allies: a community of missionaries and locals, whose acts of selfless love and courage help her bring her baby, Deborah, home.

About the Author
Joanna S. Berke has a background spanning education, social work, and community involvement. She holds an M.A. in Social Work and worked in the field for six years, after a career teaching primary school from pre-school through 8th grade. Her hobbies include reading, writing, and art. Ms. Berke is also an active member of her community, belonging to a Reform Jewish Synagogue where she volunteers leading a committee focused on bringing Israeli culture to her local Jewish community. She currently lives with her family, which includes her daughter Deborah, son-in-law Vicente, and baby grandson Nicolas.