Who Wants to Be Greek?

By: Jeffrey Lloyd Carrier

Narrated by: Stavroula G. Vagelakos

Young Greek-American teenager, from a family steeped in the sponge diving industry of Tarpon Springs, Florida, has his doubts about carrying on the tradition. Even though there is a century of history, including his brother already being a sponge diver, he struggles with even the thought of making dives.

Under pressure from his grandmother, his family, and his ancestry, our hero begins to feel like he will never be able to decide - until he meets young, vibrant, WASP, and fully-American tourist. No not tourist....

Torn between traditional expectations, modern views, and a decidedly not Greek girl, our hero begins to ask himself, "Who wants to be Greek?”

Set before and during the traditional Greek Orthodox celebration of the Feast of the Epiphany, this coming of age tale dives into the traditional lives of the residents of this secluded, idyllic community in Southern Florida and resurfaces with a rich harvest of what it means to be a Greek-American in the computer age. Entwined in the story are descriptions of what it is to be a Tarpon Springs Greek - the religion, the family values, the traditions...and - of course, the dancing!

©2019 Jeffrey Lloyd Carrier (P)2019 Jeffrey Lloyd Carrier

Wonderful Performance a timeless story

Stravila’s performance brought the story to life beyond my imagination , and I enjoy every time I hear it again and again. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I do.

Quick, Interesting Listen

This book initially caught my eye when I saw Tarpon Springs on the cover. I have grown up between the Bahamas and Florida. In the Bahamas my best friend was Greek. When we moved to Florida, his family told me about Tarpon Springs. I had wanted to go to Greece for most of my life, but it is a distance, so whenever I was feeling the need to visit Greece I would drive straight across the state to Tarpon Springs.

I loved this little nugget of Tarpon Springs history, through this family. I loved all the quotes from my Big, Fat, Greek wedding. My mum's side came from very traditional European roots, and so my mum and I both related a lot to that movie. This book in that same way was relatable.

For those who enjoy Greek culture, Florida history, sponging, travel, history, etc this is a great listen for you.

I did enjoy Vagelakos's narration. She did great with the female voices. I found her main voice for a boy to feminine. I did get used to it being the main character's voice though. I think this book was well set up that a guy and girl could have narrated it.

I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review.