9 KIDS, 23 CARS


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About the book...

In “9 Kids, 23 Cars,” two-time author Rose Trochlil presents a memoir spanning 60 years of her life, spending 15 years in Northern Wisconsin and 30 in West Virginia.

Follow her journey from a farm in Minnesota to the University of Minnesota, where she met Richard Trochlil, her husband of 60 years. Together they followed his career in the U.S Forest Service and as the family grew they lived in five states and 12 homes.

Folks in Elkins can relate to her stories of travel in West Virginia — over the mountains and through the forests in ever-changing weather conditions — ice, snow, and fog. Rose clearly remembers teaching several of her children to drive in these conditions. She explains the title — 23 cars — purchasing, selling, repairing and replacing them.

Trochlil regales us with all the ups and downs, twists and turns one might expect that come from a family with nine children.

In doing so, she shows that there is a story to tell from a long life lived well.

Trochlil hopes this memoir, written at age 80, will inspire others to record their family history.

About the author...

Rose Deml Trochlil is a mother, teacher, homemaker, and world traveler. Most recently she also became an author, co-authoring (with her sister Carol) a memoir of her childhood years, Lilacs to Share, and a memoir of her college years and beyond, 9 Kids and 23 Cars. She has been blessed with family, good health, dear friends, and opportunities to serve God in ways He planned. Her books are books of faith. She is most thankful for her nine children - all children are a gift from God.

What readers think...


Bursting with warmth and plenty of heart, 9 Kids and 23 Cars will sweep you along on a journey of change and adventure. This charming narrative is chock full of anecdotes describing the frights and delights of life in a large, active, faith-filled family.
--Patricia Mullett. MSed Reading Specialist, University of Wisconsin 

I'm blown away to imagine being the mother of nine children, moving frequently from house to house, as part of your husband's career in the U.S. Forest Service. Although busy as mom and homemaker, Rose had several jobs to supplement the family income, at the same time teaching her children ways to enjoy life on a shoestring budget. She earned a Master’s degree in math and spent years teaching while her own children were in school. With her husband, Dick, she still found time to travel to all 50 states and 32 countries on five continents. Her memoir gives readers you-are-there details about a life she enjoyed to the fullest.
--Margaret Smolik, Writer and copy editor

Rose Marie Trochlil, my sister, the oldest of four, grew up on a farm: Dad's right-hand girl and Mom’s kitchen-helper. I got to know her best when we together authored Lilacs to Share and Shirts in the Refrigerator. Rose nurtures by nature. She welcomes overnight guests and drop-in visitors with a smile and a cup of coffee. Share a moment reading her story. 
--Carol Sisterman, Author of Song of Joy

A funny, heartwarming memoir by a mom who found joy and gratitude in a life full of change. Rose shares these vignettes to remind the reader of similar experiences.
--Shaun Huttar, Author and editor

Rose has written a true story about raising a large family with all its ups and downs. This is a very enjoyable book about the midwest and all the day- to-day little things that happen with families. A quick summer read that takes you back to quieter times.
--Roberta Johnson, Book club president

Buy the book...

Want to buy the book? Click the "Buy Now" button and you'll be taken to a PayPal page to complete your purchase. Just $24.95.
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