I Was Young Once Paperback – January 6, 2026

I Was Young Once… is a rich, heartfelt memoir by Joan Salvato, capturing nearly a century of American life through the lens of one remarkable woman. Born in 1935 in rural Wisconsin, Joan takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the Depression era, World War II, small-town farm life, motherhood, political activism, and personal resilience. With humor, candor, and warmth, she recalls everything from delivering lunch to her father in a cornfield to her family’s role in local politics and the bittersweet complexities of love and loss.Spanning generations and brimming with vivid storytelling, Joan’s reflections pay tribute to her Norwegian and German heritage, her colorful family, and the simple joys that shaped her life. Her story is not just her own—it’s a collective memory of “The Last Ones,” the generation that lived through some of America’s most defining decades.Whether you’re a lover of history, a seeker of nostalgia, or simply someone who appreciates an honest life well-lived, this book is a tender and timeless celebration of endurance, family, and the beauty of growing old. Read more