by James Ross Reviewed by Sherry Tabb at Ladies on the Tee |
| As I See iT |
| Art by Wendy Whittingham |
Legacy of the Ripper:
By Brian L. Porter
A legacy is defined as anything handed
down from the past from an ancestor.
Some bestow monetary awards, others
furniture and some even jewelry. But, in
the case of Dr. Robert Cavendish in the
book A Study in Red the legacy bestowed
upon him was quite different. His father,
when he died, had his journals given to
Robert by his solicitor and the end result
was anything but rich, gratifying or happy.
Being a direct descendant of Jack the
Ripper, Dr. Cavendish was presented with
his journals and required to read them in
order to understand the rationale behind
his motives and mind for his killings. But, it
destroyed him and left him in such a
catatonic state that he became sick, ill
and could not function or perform his daily
routines.
In his second in his Ripper series once
again the master of science fiction,
mysteries and thrillers, Brian Porter, gives
us more insight into the mind of another
killer, or supposed killer, Jack Reid,
Robert’s heir, or nephew.
Being the master craftsman he is the
author switches between the past, the
time period of the true Ripper murders
and what we soon learn to be the present,
in this book the early 21st century.
Because a person is a descendant of a
murderer, butcher and killer, does that
mean that person’s genes are a part of
you and if they are does that mean you
will inherit them? Does that mean you will
become one and the same with that
person? We are about the re-enter the
world and mind of one of the most elusive
and creative killers that ever walked this
earth: Jack the Ripper.
Has he returned in the body of Jack Reid
who is next in line and has received the
dreaded journals which recount his
killings and the ones in the present that
mirror his exactly from the way the
murders were executed and the days on
which they took place? Only time will tell
as you read this book and learn what
horrors will befall the people now.
Perceptions are not always what they
appear to be. First impressions and
evidence in a crime an often lead to an
arrest according to the evidence
presented by the police and the
prosecution. Appearances can often be
deceiving and what might be right in front
of your eyes is not always what is real.
Xerox machines are used to create exact
copies of an original document. Imagine
someone doing the same thing with
crimes that were committed in the past
and now xeroxing them in the present. In
1888 Jack the Ripper mutilated, maimed,
killed, disfigured and disemboweled many
young women because he thought they
were not worthy of breathing life anymore
because of their vocation. Prostitution
was never legal in England though many
young women resorted to that profession
in order to live, feed their families and
survive. Jack the Ripper was infected with
a deadly venereal disease by one of
these women and went on a rampage of
hate, killing and destruction to rid the
world of as many as he could before
succumbing to the disease. We are not
really sure because his identity remains
unknown and he was never caught.
Jack Reid is in Ravenswood a maximum-
security facility for the criminally and
mentally insane. Insane and troubled yes,
murderer, that has not been completely
decided. After standing trial for killing
three women he tries to relate his tale of
horror and imprisonment that led up to his
arrest and incarceration. The direct
descendant of Jack the Ripper and next in
line to receive his journals from his late
uncle Robert Cavendish, he becomes
entranced and mentally kidnapped by
what was written in them and soon
becomes one and the same with the
events in them as his late uncle did.
What makes these crimes so unbelievable
is that they are being committed on the
same days and in the same exact
locations as the first murders over 100
years before. Two police officers, and one
Ripperologist re-read, revisit and rethink
all of the evidence and come up with only
one conclusion: Jack Reid might be
innocent. The killer as Jack the Ripper
was methodical, neat and did not even
leave one piece of evidence behind to
help the police identify him. But, in the
third murder that Jack Reid supposedly
committed he left himself covered with the
victim’s blood and more. Even the way the
murder was committed did not exactly
match the third one in 1888. Added to
that Jack’s description of his being held
prisoner by a young man named Michael
and repeatedly kept in a drugged stupor
and a mystery man who claimed
knowledge of all of the murders and held
him captive so he could complete his
goals, made it reasonable for the police to
reevaluate their findings and try to get
him free. But, was this the right decision?
Dr. Ruth Truman is the psychiatrist
assigned to evaluate Jack and work with
him in order to have him finally admit his
guilt and more. She is relating the events
in this book as she learns about them and
narrates much of the book as Jack does
too. How do all of the characters come
together? The persistence of one Police
Sergeant and one Ripperologist who
would not give up until they found out the
truth would help find out the truth behind
the murders. Nor would lead Inspector
Holland give up without a fight to find out
just who was behind these heinous crimes
and if what Jack related to them in their
interview at Ravenswood was really fact
or fiction. Did the journals really exist?
Was there a man named Michael who
worked with this mysterious man to frame
him for these crimes? Was this person
related to him and have the same mental
disorder that seemed to run rampart in his
family?
From Whitechapel, to Brighton to Warsaw
Poland these elusive killers have left their
mark. But what will astound you is the
ending and not until the last paragraph of
the last page will you learn the truth or
think you learn the truth. The killer: Was
he caught? Is he dead? Is he still at
large? Only Brian Porter knows for sure
and you the reader will have to decide for
himself/herself. Can the pages of a
journal carry something in it so powerful
and so dangerous that it causes the
reader to become tortured, tormented
and terrorized by its contents? Can
murders be carbon copies to resemble
those from the past or even the present
including the timing, the locations and
dates of the murders? I won’t tell you. You
need to decide the facts yourself and
weigh the evidence. In the words of Jack
the Ripper and the elusive Brighton
Ripper: “I have important work to do, and I
don’t have a lot of time to prepare.” Brian
Porter prepare to receive my rating for
this book and we hope you will not keep
us in any more suspense and write the
sequel so that we really know the ending
to this outstanding novel. I am sure there
is much more to come. Who will inherit
this Legacy next? Who knows? Would you
want it?
I give this book: 5 Ripperologists to help
solve the crimes and Five Sergeant
Wright’s to assist.
Fran Lewis: REVIEWER
By Brian L. Porter
A legacy is defined as anything handed
down from the past from an ancestor.
Some bestow monetary awards, others
furniture and some even jewelry. But, in
the case of Dr. Robert Cavendish in the
book A Study in Red the legacy bestowed
upon him was quite different. His father,
when he died, had his journals given to
Robert by his solicitor and the end result
was anything but rich, gratifying or happy.
Being a direct descendant of Jack the
Ripper, Dr. Cavendish was presented with
his journals and required to read them in
order to understand the rationale behind
his motives and mind for his killings. But, it
destroyed him and left him in such a
catatonic state that he became sick, ill
and could not function or perform his daily
routines.
In his second in his Ripper series once
again the master of science fiction,
mysteries and thrillers, Brian Porter, gives
us more insight into the mind of another
killer, or supposed killer, Jack Reid,
Robert’s heir, or nephew.
Being the master craftsman he is the
author switches between the past, the
time period of the true Ripper murders
and what we soon learn to be the present,
in this book the early 21st century.
Because a person is a descendant of a
murderer, butcher and killer, does that
mean that person’s genes are a part of
you and if they are does that mean you
will inherit them? Does that mean you will
become one and the same with that
person? We are about the re-enter the
world and mind of one of the most elusive
and creative killers that ever walked this
earth: Jack the Ripper.
Has he returned in the body of Jack Reid
who is next in line and has received the
dreaded journals which recount his
killings and the ones in the present that
mirror his exactly from the way the
murders were executed and the days on
which they took place? Only time will tell
as you read this book and learn what
horrors will befall the people now.
Perceptions are not always what they
appear to be. First impressions and
evidence in a crime an often lead to an
arrest according to the evidence
presented by the police and the
prosecution. Appearances can often be
deceiving and what might be right in front
of your eyes is not always what is real.
Xerox machines are used to create exact
copies of an original document. Imagine
someone doing the same thing with
crimes that were committed in the past
and now xeroxing them in the present. In
1888 Jack the Ripper mutilated, maimed,
killed, disfigured and disemboweled many
young women because he thought they
were not worthy of breathing life anymore
because of their vocation. Prostitution
was never legal in England though many
young women resorted to that profession
in order to live, feed their families and
survive. Jack the Ripper was infected with
a deadly venereal disease by one of
these women and went on a rampage of
hate, killing and destruction to rid the
world of as many as he could before
succumbing to the disease. We are not
really sure because his identity remains
unknown and he was never caught.
Jack Reid is in Ravenswood a maximum-
security facility for the criminally and
mentally insane. Insane and troubled yes,
murderer, that has not been completely
decided. After standing trial for killing
three women he tries to relate his tale of
horror and imprisonment that led up to his
arrest and incarceration. The direct
descendant of Jack the Ripper and next in
line to receive his journals from his late
uncle Robert Cavendish, he becomes
entranced and mentally kidnapped by
what was written in them and soon
becomes one and the same with the
events in them as his late uncle did.
What makes these crimes so unbelievable
is that they are being committed on the
same days and in the same exact
locations as the first murders over 100
years before. Two police officers, and one
Ripperologist re-read, revisit and rethink
all of the evidence and come up with only
one conclusion: Jack Reid might be
innocent. The killer as Jack the Ripper
was methodical, neat and did not even
leave one piece of evidence behind to
help the police identify him. But, in the
third murder that Jack Reid supposedly
committed he left himself covered with the
victim’s blood and more. Even the way the
murder was committed did not exactly
match the third one in 1888. Added to
that Jack’s description of his being held
prisoner by a young man named Michael
and repeatedly kept in a drugged stupor
and a mystery man who claimed
knowledge of all of the murders and held
him captive so he could complete his
goals, made it reasonable for the police to
reevaluate their findings and try to get
him free. But, was this the right decision?
Dr. Ruth Truman is the psychiatrist
assigned to evaluate Jack and work with
him in order to have him finally admit his
guilt and more. She is relating the events
in this book as she learns about them and
narrates much of the book as Jack does
too. How do all of the characters come
together? The persistence of one Police
Sergeant and one Ripperologist who
would not give up until they found out the
truth would help find out the truth behind
the murders. Nor would lead Inspector
Holland give up without a fight to find out
just who was behind these heinous crimes
and if what Jack related to them in their
interview at Ravenswood was really fact
or fiction. Did the journals really exist?
Was there a man named Michael who
worked with this mysterious man to frame
him for these crimes? Was this person
related to him and have the same mental
disorder that seemed to run rampart in his
family?
From Whitechapel, to Brighton to Warsaw
Poland these elusive killers have left their
mark. But what will astound you is the
ending and not until the last paragraph of
the last page will you learn the truth or
think you learn the truth. The killer: Was
he caught? Is he dead? Is he still at
large? Only Brian Porter knows for sure
and you the reader will have to decide for
himself/herself. Can the pages of a
journal carry something in it so powerful
and so dangerous that it causes the
reader to become tortured, tormented
and terrorized by its contents? Can
murders be carbon copies to resemble
those from the past or even the present
including the timing, the locations and
dates of the murders? I won’t tell you. You
need to decide the facts yourself and
weigh the evidence. In the words of Jack
the Ripper and the elusive Brighton
Ripper: “I have important work to do, and I
don’t have a lot of time to prepare.” Brian
Porter prepare to receive my rating for
this book and we hope you will not keep
us in any more suspense and write the
sequel so that we really know the ending
to this outstanding novel. I am sure there
is much more to come. Who will inherit
this Legacy next? Who knows? Would you
want it?
I give this book: 5 Ripperologists to help
solve the crimes and Five Sergeant
Wright’s to assist.
Fran Lewis: REVIEWER
By J Lou McCartney
Reviewed by Fran Lewis
Revenge is the greatest weapon that
women have or is it? How far will you go
to protect what you want if scorned? Is
murder in the cards for you or will you
take another route? Women are clever,
but men can be just as wicked and
devious as you will learn in this novel
about hate, murder, greed, deceit and
more by J Lou McCartney, The De Marco
Empire which is about to fall just as hard
as the Roman One did thousands of
years ago.
Katie Saunders- sweet and innocent
walks into the life of Antonio De Marco
and wreaks havoc with in minutes turning
his world and hers upside down. Trying to
get a look at his upscale club, she and
her friend Lucy convince the guard to let
them in pretending to want a job. His
employees, Tania and Veronica resent
her from the start, yet consider her the
best waitress they have especially when
needed to fill in on the night the boss and
his Russian girlfriend, Sasha show up.
This is the beginning of the end for their
relationship and the start of a new one for
her and Antonio. But, what might appear
to be perfect and the right thing for one
person, is going to become a nightmare
and tragic for another.
The story opens with Katie Saunders De
Marco entering a courtroom on shackles
for the cold-blooded murder of her
husband Antonio on their wedding night.
Cold-blooded, premeditated- or was she
framed? So many enemies, so many
players, so many who wanted him dead.
Sasha, the scorned lover, the Calvi family
who had his sister and parents killed for a
previous vendetta and Tania, Veronica
his head girl at his club and many more.
“How did I ever get involved with this
family? Why did I decide to become part
of a dangerous family? What am I going
to do to get out of this mess? I hope that
Matt can help me and create a good
defense for me or: Katie Saunders De
Marco will spend the rest of her life in jail
for a murder she did not commit.?
Antonio De Marco a successful
businessman who owns his own clubs and
gambling casinos. He is into drug
trafficking, gambling, territorial wars, vice,
police corruption, and murder. Strong-
arming people no matter whether they
worked for him or are on the outside does
not faze him as long as the means leads
to his desired end. Gianni De Marco, his
brother, has a dark side and would resort
to anything in order to protect his brother
and his lucrative businesses and
interests. Tania the manager of their club
La Pregheira, had a side business of her
own with another worker in the club and
never thought one of the brothers would
find out. Gianni, a lady’s man was
engaged to a beautiful woman named
Felicia who adored him and looked away
from his indiscretions. Greed and the
desire to have a piece of Tania’s action,
unfortunately caught Felicia the crossfire
and she paid dearly. But, that was not the
end of the woes of the De Marco family.
The worst has yet to come and it would.
Katie and Matt were supposed to be
together for life. But, circumstances
interfered and unfortunate relationships
occurred and things that were supposed
to work out had tragic endings. Lucy,
Matt’s sister is Katie’s best friend and she
becomes embroiled in this life when she
meets Stevo working at the club. But,
more clearheaded than Katie she starts
to see Antonio and his family for what
they are and when she or Matt tries to
warn her, she becomes incensed and
more.
In the middle of this is Sasha, the Russian
ex-girlfriend of Antonio who he drops like
a hotcake after meeting Katie. Revenge is
what she wants but soon gives up on him
only to return after Felicia’s death and
take up with Gianni and forms an alliance
with him in business and more. Owing
allegiance to her father, Gianni, allows
Sasha into his life with more tragic results.
From the beginning there was a vendetta
that stemmed years before with the Calvi
brothers and the De Marco family. Added
to that the involvement of the Driscoll
brothers in drug trafficking there are
many players and many complicated
situations that the reader needs to
understand and sort out. Including the
framing of Robert Valetti, a business
partner of the brothers who is set up by
one of them for smuggling drugs in a
furniture shipment. Robert and his wife
own an exclusive Italian furniture business
and after his death Katie and his wife
form a partnership with several others to
expand the business along with an art
gallery owner whose business if burnt to
the ground and more. With the help of
Henry the owner of the gallery and Ralph
who designed buildings they would
expand their business and hope for
success. But, the best laid plans do not
always work out and what happens next
will not only terrify you but will keep you
on the edge of your seat.
J. Lou McCartney is the master of
intrigue, fear and suspense in this
groundbreaking novel that gives the
reader an inside look at a mafia family
and what it means to become one of
them. Skeletons in the closet come out to
haunt Antonio and his brother Gianni.
Murders are covered up so cleverly that
they are never solved and bodies are
buried so deep you can’t find them.
After so many tragedies and so many
murders and deaths, Katie and Antonio
are married. While preparing a bath for
them both on their wedding night
someone comes into their suite and
murders Antonio. With blood on her
clothes and her hands the police come
and arrest Katie assuming that she is the
murderer and killed him for the insurance
money. Matt, now a prestigious attorney
and working in his own firm, handles
murder cases and he is her only hope. In
a loveless marriage and hoping to still
find his way back to Katie he agrees to
help her. But, can he when the evidence
points to her. What happens at the end
will stupefy you. What this brilliant author
has planned for the characters and what
their final fates will be will only be
revealed when you read this novel.
Reviewed by Fran Lewis
Revenge is the greatest weapon that
women have or is it? How far will you go
to protect what you want if scorned? Is
murder in the cards for you or will you
take another route? Women are clever,
but men can be just as wicked and
devious as you will learn in this novel
about hate, murder, greed, deceit and
more by J Lou McCartney, The De Marco
Empire which is about to fall just as hard
as the Roman One did thousands of
years ago.
Katie Saunders- sweet and innocent
walks into the life of Antonio De Marco
and wreaks havoc with in minutes turning
his world and hers upside down. Trying to
get a look at his upscale club, she and
her friend Lucy convince the guard to let
them in pretending to want a job. His
employees, Tania and Veronica resent
her from the start, yet consider her the
best waitress they have especially when
needed to fill in on the night the boss and
his Russian girlfriend, Sasha show up.
This is the beginning of the end for their
relationship and the start of a new one for
her and Antonio. But, what might appear
to be perfect and the right thing for one
person, is going to become a nightmare
and tragic for another.
The story opens with Katie Saunders De
Marco entering a courtroom on shackles
for the cold-blooded murder of her
husband Antonio on their wedding night.
Cold-blooded, premeditated- or was she
framed? So many enemies, so many
players, so many who wanted him dead.
Sasha, the scorned lover, the Calvi family
who had his sister and parents killed for a
previous vendetta and Tania, Veronica
his head girl at his club and many more.
“How did I ever get involved with this
family? Why did I decide to become part
of a dangerous family? What am I going
to do to get out of this mess? I hope that
Matt can help me and create a good
defense for me or: Katie Saunders De
Marco will spend the rest of her life in jail
for a murder she did not commit.?
Antonio De Marco a successful
businessman who owns his own clubs and
gambling casinos. He is into drug
trafficking, gambling, territorial wars, vice,
police corruption, and murder. Strong-
arming people no matter whether they
worked for him or are on the outside does
not faze him as long as the means leads
to his desired end. Gianni De Marco, his
brother, has a dark side and would resort
to anything in order to protect his brother
and his lucrative businesses and
interests. Tania the manager of their club
La Pregheira, had a side business of her
own with another worker in the club and
never thought one of the brothers would
find out. Gianni, a lady’s man was
engaged to a beautiful woman named
Felicia who adored him and looked away
from his indiscretions. Greed and the
desire to have a piece of Tania’s action,
unfortunately caught Felicia the crossfire
and she paid dearly. But, that was not the
end of the woes of the De Marco family.
The worst has yet to come and it would.
Katie and Matt were supposed to be
together for life. But, circumstances
interfered and unfortunate relationships
occurred and things that were supposed
to work out had tragic endings. Lucy,
Matt’s sister is Katie’s best friend and she
becomes embroiled in this life when she
meets Stevo working at the club. But,
more clearheaded than Katie she starts
to see Antonio and his family for what
they are and when she or Matt tries to
warn her, she becomes incensed and
more.
In the middle of this is Sasha, the Russian
ex-girlfriend of Antonio who he drops like
a hotcake after meeting Katie. Revenge is
what she wants but soon gives up on him
only to return after Felicia’s death and
take up with Gianni and forms an alliance
with him in business and more. Owing
allegiance to her father, Gianni, allows
Sasha into his life with more tragic results.
From the beginning there was a vendetta
that stemmed years before with the Calvi
brothers and the De Marco family. Added
to that the involvement of the Driscoll
brothers in drug trafficking there are
many players and many complicated
situations that the reader needs to
understand and sort out. Including the
framing of Robert Valetti, a business
partner of the brothers who is set up by
one of them for smuggling drugs in a
furniture shipment. Robert and his wife
own an exclusive Italian furniture business
and after his death Katie and his wife
form a partnership with several others to
expand the business along with an art
gallery owner whose business if burnt to
the ground and more. With the help of
Henry the owner of the gallery and Ralph
who designed buildings they would
expand their business and hope for
success. But, the best laid plans do not
always work out and what happens next
will not only terrify you but will keep you
on the edge of your seat.
J. Lou McCartney is the master of
intrigue, fear and suspense in this
groundbreaking novel that gives the
reader an inside look at a mafia family
and what it means to become one of
them. Skeletons in the closet come out to
haunt Antonio and his brother Gianni.
Murders are covered up so cleverly that
they are never solved and bodies are
buried so deep you can’t find them.
After so many tragedies and so many
murders and deaths, Katie and Antonio
are married. While preparing a bath for
them both on their wedding night
someone comes into their suite and
murders Antonio. With blood on her
clothes and her hands the police come
and arrest Katie assuming that she is the
murderer and killed him for the insurance
money. Matt, now a prestigious attorney
and working in his own firm, handles
murder cases and he is her only hope. In
a loveless marriage and hoping to still
find his way back to Katie he agrees to
help her. But, can he when the evidence
points to her. What happens at the end
will stupefy you. What this brilliant author
has planned for the characters and what
their final fates will be will only be
revealed when you read this novel.
First let me start by stating that I am in
no way considered to be a book critic.
However, I know what holds my interest
and what does not. Having said that I
recently had the opportunity to read,
the James Ross book, Lifetime Loser.
This book is the first in a series of 3
novels to date by Mr. Ross.
Lifetime Loser is a story about greed
vs. honesty. Its backdrop is a golf
course and there is a well woven plot
that involves a naive golf professional,
J.W. Schroeder and a very
unscrupulous business man, Lew
Zerrmann and his equally dishonest
associates and acquaintances. Ross
takes us on a journey that spans two
decades and has enough twists and
turns to keep you hanging on every
word.
For me this book was as interesting a
read as a John Grisham or Patricia
Cornwell novel (two of my personal
favorites). The character development
was strong and effectual. The
proverbial fight of good vs. evil plays
well in this book especially with the
focus on greed. It rings so true for
today’s world. It is not until the end
that you really find out what will
happen. There are many surprises
even at the end so don’t think you can
figure out who wins. You’ll need to
read the book.
The bottom line is that I ended up
putting off some office work to finish
this book. It is a real page turner,
even if you are NOT a golf fan. I am
anxious to begin reading the second of
the series, Finish Line. But for now, I
have to get back to my office chores. I
may have to burn some ‘midnight oil’
tonight and get into the next story….
Recommendation: A hole-in-one!!
no way considered to be a book critic.
However, I know what holds my interest
and what does not. Having said that I
recently had the opportunity to read,
the James Ross book, Lifetime Loser.
This book is the first in a series of 3
novels to date by Mr. Ross.
Lifetime Loser is a story about greed
vs. honesty. Its backdrop is a golf
course and there is a well woven plot
that involves a naive golf professional,
J.W. Schroeder and a very
unscrupulous business man, Lew
Zerrmann and his equally dishonest
associates and acquaintances. Ross
takes us on a journey that spans two
decades and has enough twists and
turns to keep you hanging on every
word.
For me this book was as interesting a
read as a John Grisham or Patricia
Cornwell novel (two of my personal
favorites). The character development
was strong and effectual. The
proverbial fight of good vs. evil plays
well in this book especially with the
focus on greed. It rings so true for
today’s world. It is not until the end
that you really find out what will
happen. There are many surprises
even at the end so don’t think you can
figure out who wins. You’ll need to
read the book.
The bottom line is that I ended up
putting off some office work to finish
this book. It is a real page turner,
even if you are NOT a golf fan. I am
anxious to begin reading the second of
the series, Finish Line. But for now, I
have to get back to my office chores. I
may have to burn some ‘midnight oil’
tonight and get into the next story….
Recommendation: A hole-in-one!!
Finish Line by James Ross Reviewed by Sherry Tabb at Ladies on the Tee |
Finish Line is the second of a series of
three novels by author, James Ross .
It is set against the backdrop of Prairie
Winds Golf Course on the east side of
St. Louis. Don’t let that fool you into
thinking this is a novel about golf. It is
much more than that!
Finish Line is a story about two
teenage boys that get into some
trouble and what they learn while
paying for the damage they caused.
This story is as alive today as it was
during any generation before us. The
author brings you into the lives of
these two boys in a way that makes
you feel like you are part of their family.
The lessons they learn while working
off their debt at Prairie Winds flow
effortlessly with the credo of those that
play the game of golf…at least, for
most that play the game! The
characters that are newly introduced
and others brought back to life from
Ross’s first book, Lifetime Loser, add
varying points of view and learning for
each of the boys…and the reader.
The beauty is that the characters are
real and flawed, each in their own way.
As in his first novel, Ross takes you
through a number of different twists
and turns and subplots that keep the
pages turning while you eagerly
anticipate the next event and life
lesson. The author masterfully blends
all the characters and subplots to keep
things interesting from start to finish.
Speaking of finish..the end is a real
tease and cliff hanger. By this time
you are so involved that you simply sit
stunned and looking for the third novel
to find out what happens to one of the
main characters.
Excellent read for all golfers and non-
golfers alike. Ross has an insight and
style that provides for easy reading
while at the same time providing
substance.
three novels by author, James Ross .
It is set against the backdrop of Prairie
Winds Golf Course on the east side of
St. Louis. Don’t let that fool you into
thinking this is a novel about golf. It is
much more than that!
Finish Line is a story about two
teenage boys that get into some
trouble and what they learn while
paying for the damage they caused.
This story is as alive today as it was
during any generation before us. The
author brings you into the lives of
these two boys in a way that makes
you feel like you are part of their family.
The lessons they learn while working
off their debt at Prairie Winds flow
effortlessly with the credo of those that
play the game of golf…at least, for
most that play the game! The
characters that are newly introduced
and others brought back to life from
Ross’s first book, Lifetime Loser, add
varying points of view and learning for
each of the boys…and the reader.
The beauty is that the characters are
real and flawed, each in their own way.
As in his first novel, Ross takes you
through a number of different twists
and turns and subplots that keep the
pages turning while you eagerly
anticipate the next event and life
lesson. The author masterfully blends
all the characters and subplots to keep
things interesting from start to finish.
Speaking of finish..the end is a real
tease and cliff hanger. By this time
you are so involved that you simply sit
stunned and looking for the third novel
to find out what happens to one of the
main characters.
Excellent read for all golfers and non-
golfers alike. Ross has an insight and
style that provides for easy reading
while at the same time providing
substance.
Tuey’s Course by James Ross Reviewed by Sherry Tabb at Ladies on the Tee |
Tuey’s Course is the 3rd novel in
James Ross’ series of 3 that showcase
the human spirit, flaws, resilience and
frailties using a golf course as a
backdrop and plot enhancer. I have
already registered my opinion on Ross’
first 2 novels; Lifetime Loser and The
Finish Line.
This 3rd novel was not my favorite of
the three but that does not mean you
should ignore it. Ross again displays
his adeptness at showing how the
world of golf mirrors life in so many
ways. This story is about a hapless
and downtrodden black businessman,
WeWildapheet Ulisees O’Tweety, a.k.
a. Tuey, who is targeted by the corrupt
politicians at City Hall in St. Louis and
a local bank president among others
based on their personal greed and
agendas.
Ross’ mastery of Tuey’s dialect is of
note as it takes you deeper into Tuey’s
mind and world. You really start to feel
Tuey’s pain and frustration in a way
that only his use of the special dialect
can allow. At first the story line does
seem encumbered with too many
references of the key players’ physical
characteristics to their animal
counterparts. However, as the plot
develops and the ending ensues it all
seems to make sense.
The problem is that unless you hang
onto the end you think Ross has gone
down a totally bizarre path in Tuey’s
Course. I am glad I kept reading as
the ending clears up the confusion of
the analogies and smacks you in the
face with what Tuey does to deal with
his discriminations and frustrations.
For an overall review of James Ross’
series, I rank Lifetime Loser as my
favorite with its Grisham-like plot, The
Finish Line is next but a close second
to Lifetime Loser and that leaves Tuey’
s Course coming in as my 3rd choice
James Ross’ series of 3 that showcase
the human spirit, flaws, resilience and
frailties using a golf course as a
backdrop and plot enhancer. I have
already registered my opinion on Ross’
first 2 novels; Lifetime Loser and The
Finish Line.
This 3rd novel was not my favorite of
the three but that does not mean you
should ignore it. Ross again displays
his adeptness at showing how the
world of golf mirrors life in so many
ways. This story is about a hapless
and downtrodden black businessman,
WeWildapheet Ulisees O’Tweety, a.k.
a. Tuey, who is targeted by the corrupt
politicians at City Hall in St. Louis and
a local bank president among others
based on their personal greed and
agendas.
Ross’ mastery of Tuey’s dialect is of
note as it takes you deeper into Tuey’s
mind and world. You really start to feel
Tuey’s pain and frustration in a way
that only his use of the special dialect
can allow. At first the story line does
seem encumbered with too many
references of the key players’ physical
characteristics to their animal
counterparts. However, as the plot
develops and the ending ensues it all
seems to make sense.
The problem is that unless you hang
onto the end you think Ross has gone
down a totally bizarre path in Tuey’s
Course. I am glad I kept reading as
the ending clears up the confusion of
the analogies and smacks you in the
face with what Tuey does to deal with
his discriminations and frustrations.
For an overall review of James Ross’
series, I rank Lifetime Loser as my
favorite with its Grisham-like plot, The
Finish Line is next but a close second
to Lifetime Loser and that leaves Tuey’
s Course coming in as my 3rd choice
| To learn more about James Ross, you can listen to this interview at Whine Time with January Jones www.modavox.com/voiceamerica/vepiso de.aspx?aid=39905 |
| JBtD -- 9/2/09 precis |
Joseph A. Gillan’s Just Before the Dawn tells the story of a long-term love relationship
between a man and a woman, and all that such a relationship involves over time, all of the
vicissitudes -- the good and the bad, the ups and downs, the occasional sorrows and the
many joys.
It is a story that will make you laugh out loud, at times, and at other times tug at your
heart strings -- but, above all, it is a story that will make you think.
Just Before the Dawn is a novel, a work of fiction, about the two lives we all lead -- the
temporal and the spiritual -- with a powerful ending that focuses on the spiritual
component of this duality, as we await, and move along our journey toward, eternal life.
The book tells of a quest for faith and in the end is an intelligent, entertaining,
memorable, and thoughtful story about change, growth and redemption.
Just Before the Dawn is a highly literate book and also a highly readable and entertaining
novel.
Just Before the Dawn may be the only novel you’ll ever read in which you’ll get equal
measures of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), St. Thomas Aquinas, Roy Orbison,
St. Augustine, Thomas Merton, Willie Nelson and John Paul-2 (with nods, also, to
Ecclesiastes, Heraclitus, and Nietzsche). There also is a smattering in the book about
major league baseball, a touch of tasteful erotica and select, thoughtful remembrances of
military service inVietnam.
There is also in Just Before the Dawn a tender, moving and insightful exposition on
society’s special needs/disadvantaged population (referred to, lovingly, in the book, as
the ‘special souls among us’), and there is interspersed throughout the book what has
been termed a syllabus of great literature with quotes from many literary classics of the
last century that you may want to consider adding to your reading list or, possibly, going
back to read again.
There is no other novel in America today quite like Just Before the Dawn.
As the “Mensa Bulletin” said in its rave review: “You’ve got to read this book.”
Available at: Amazon.com
Barnes&Noble.com, Barnes & Noble, Sarasota
Borders.com
Books-A-Million.com
Target.com
Circle Books, Sarasota
between a man and a woman, and all that such a relationship involves over time, all of the
vicissitudes -- the good and the bad, the ups and downs, the occasional sorrows and the
many joys.
It is a story that will make you laugh out loud, at times, and at other times tug at your
heart strings -- but, above all, it is a story that will make you think.
Just Before the Dawn is a novel, a work of fiction, about the two lives we all lead -- the
temporal and the spiritual -- with a powerful ending that focuses on the spiritual
component of this duality, as we await, and move along our journey toward, eternal life.
The book tells of a quest for faith and in the end is an intelligent, entertaining,
memorable, and thoughtful story about change, growth and redemption.
Just Before the Dawn is a highly literate book and also a highly readable and entertaining
novel.
Just Before the Dawn may be the only novel you’ll ever read in which you’ll get equal
measures of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), St. Thomas Aquinas, Roy Orbison,
St. Augustine, Thomas Merton, Willie Nelson and John Paul-2 (with nods, also, to
Ecclesiastes, Heraclitus, and Nietzsche). There also is a smattering in the book about
major league baseball, a touch of tasteful erotica and select, thoughtful remembrances of
military service inVietnam.
There is also in Just Before the Dawn a tender, moving and insightful exposition on
society’s special needs/disadvantaged population (referred to, lovingly, in the book, as
the ‘special souls among us’), and there is interspersed throughout the book what has
been termed a syllabus of great literature with quotes from many literary classics of the
last century that you may want to consider adding to your reading list or, possibly, going
back to read again.
There is no other novel in America today quite like Just Before the Dawn.
As the “Mensa Bulletin” said in its rave review: “You’ve got to read this book.”
Available at: Amazon.com
Barnes&Noble.com, Barnes & Noble, Sarasota
Borders.com
Books-A-Million.com
Target.com
Circle Books, Sarasota
Title: Authors Access: 30 Success Secrets for Authors and Publishers
Authors: Victor R. Volkman, Irene Watson & Tyler R. Tichelaar
Publisher: Modern History Press
ISBN-13: 978-1-932690-98-9
ISBN-10:1-932690-98-0
Cost: $ 21.95
Victor R. Volkman, of Loving Healing Press Inc., teams up with Irene Watson and Tyler R.
Tichelaar to provide this fantastic collection of information and advice taken from the Authors
Access Podcasts.
Authors Access recorded 75 shows and reached an audience of 500 authors and publishers
each week since starting in 2006 and helped fill the void of publishing podcasts. This book
promises to be just as successful.
Covering a variety of topics including, to name a few, the craft of writing, editing your work and
exploiting the writing market. It even has information about new technology like Kindle. Authors
Access is a must have for anyone working in the writing industry.
Straight forward and easy to follow. Each chapter ends with a listing of the related podcasts
airdate, url and the authors sites making it simple to follow up or research further.
The only downside to this book is that it left me wanting more. The authors and contributors to
this book really know what they are talking about and I’ll definitely be on the waiting list for volume
2!
Reviewed by Jo Linsdell
Authors: Victor R. Volkman, Irene Watson & Tyler R. Tichelaar
Publisher: Modern History Press
ISBN-13: 978-1-932690-98-9
ISBN-10:1-932690-98-0
Cost: $ 21.95
Victor R. Volkman, of Loving Healing Press Inc., teams up with Irene Watson and Tyler R.
Tichelaar to provide this fantastic collection of information and advice taken from the Authors
Access Podcasts.
Authors Access recorded 75 shows and reached an audience of 500 authors and publishers
each week since starting in 2006 and helped fill the void of publishing podcasts. This book
promises to be just as successful.
Covering a variety of topics including, to name a few, the craft of writing, editing your work and
exploiting the writing market. It even has information about new technology like Kindle. Authors
Access is a must have for anyone working in the writing industry.
Straight forward and easy to follow. Each chapter ends with a listing of the related podcasts
airdate, url and the authors sites making it simple to follow up or research further.
The only downside to this book is that it left me wanting more. The authors and contributors to
this book really know what they are talking about and I’ll definitely be on the waiting list for volume
2!
Reviewed by Jo Linsdell
Title: Getting your book Published for Dummies
Reviewed by: Jo Linsdell
Review:
Getting your Book Published for Dummies is an
easy to use reference that will guide you
through the publishing industry, introducing you
to the key roles and breaking down the various
stages of a books development from idea to
published product.
Sarah Parsons Zackheim worked in book
publishing for nearly a decade before
becoming a widely published freelance writer.
Adrian Zackheim is Associate Publisher of the
General Books Group at HarperCollins
Publishers and has also worked as an editor of
fiction and non fiction. Their combined
experience makes them more than qualified to
write this comprehensive guide.
The book is broken down into easy to digest
chapters covering; getting started, knocking on
the publisher’s door, preparing the package:
Book proposals and query letters that sell,
taking it public: A strategic approach to placing
your book, Home at last! Negotiation and
contract, After the deal is done and the part of
tens.
Each section has a humorous cartoon
illustrated by Rich Tennant.
Well written and easy to use, Getting your Book
Published for Dummies is a reference guide all
aspiring authors should have.
Authors: Sarah Parsons Zackheim with Adrian
Zackheim
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc.
ISBN– 0-7645-5257-0
Cost: £14.95
Reviewed by: Jo Linsdell
Review:
Getting your Book Published for Dummies is an
easy to use reference that will guide you
through the publishing industry, introducing you
to the key roles and breaking down the various
stages of a books development from idea to
published product.
Sarah Parsons Zackheim worked in book
publishing for nearly a decade before
becoming a widely published freelance writer.
Adrian Zackheim is Associate Publisher of the
General Books Group at HarperCollins
Publishers and has also worked as an editor of
fiction and non fiction. Their combined
experience makes them more than qualified to
write this comprehensive guide.
The book is broken down into easy to digest
chapters covering; getting started, knocking on
the publisher’s door, preparing the package:
Book proposals and query letters that sell,
taking it public: A strategic approach to placing
your book, Home at last! Negotiation and
contract, After the deal is done and the part of
tens.
Each section has a humorous cartoon
illustrated by Rich Tennant.
Well written and easy to use, Getting your Book
Published for Dummies is a reference guide all
aspiring authors should have.
Authors: Sarah Parsons Zackheim with Adrian
Zackheim
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc.
ISBN– 0-7645-5257-0
Cost: £14.95
The Mayor's Wife Wore Sapphires
by Martha Tucker
Indigo Tate to quote Martin Luther King, has a dream. A passion that came into being the same moment she changed her name from Betty to
Indigo. She would leave the ghetto behind and re-root herself in Beverly Hills.
She plans, not making a move without her consuming desire in the back of her mind. Her beauty, charm and brains get her to the right places at the
right time.
Luck smiles on her when she meets, falls in love and marries charismatic Melville Tate who she recognizes as a man on his way up the stairs of
politics. And it doesn't hurt that he's handsome and makes her knees quiver.
Their life together is good. Indigo is ecstatic with her husband's rise to Mayor of Compton, California, but in her mind that is just one more step, to
getting herself, her man and her children closer to Washington DC.
But fate can be cruel. Mel Tate is assassinated and Indigo is devastated, almost beyond the ability to honor her husband's last words. "See it
through--Indi."
Climbing from a well of pain, she surfaces to some cold hard realities concerning her and her children's survival.
Facts come to her, facts that don't support the account she is given about her husband's death. The more questions she asks, the less clear things
become.
Indigo decides there is only one way to get her answers, run for Mayor herself, but there are people who do not want things to come from the dark
into the light, and they will stop at nothing to keep them buried.
I enjoyed The Mayor's Wife Wore Sapphires. It took me into worlds I knew little about. This story of intrigue, danger and betrayal also educates. I
recommend it highly.
Barbara M Hodges
http://barbarahodges.gobot.com
'Power to the Chosen.'
The Blue Flame
The Emerald Dagger
The Silver Angel
Stargazer's Children
Shadow Worlds ( Now available in print from Twilight Times Books. http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com/ShadowWorlds_ch1.html.)
http://www.editred.com/bassetbarb
Rising Sign
by Jared Lopatin
A Compelling Astrological Thriller
Quick-paced and clever, Rising Sign is
a spellbinding astrological fantasy
thriller that forces twelve reluctant
heroes -- each the embodiment of one
astrological sign -- to face off against a
powerful enemy who would destroy
them and their world. Jared Lopatin
creates a compelling world that keeps
you enthralled until the final twist on
the book's final pages. This first
installment in a projected trilogy is sure
to leave you hungry for more!
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/144
2177004/ref=cm_pdp_rev_itm_img_1
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
by Jared Lopatin
A Compelling Astrological Thriller
Quick-paced and clever, Rising Sign is
a spellbinding astrological fantasy
thriller that forces twelve reluctant
heroes -- each the embodiment of one
astrological sign -- to face off against a
powerful enemy who would destroy
them and their world. Jared Lopatin
creates a compelling world that keeps
you enthralled until the final twist on
the book's final pages. This first
installment in a projected trilogy is sure
to leave you hungry for more!
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/144
2177004/ref=cm_pdp_rev_itm_img_1
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
The Rest of Our Lives
by Dan Stone
Enchanting. Entrancing. Entertaining
Anyone who grew up feeling different
will love this bewitching tale of love,
romance and redemption. The Rest of
Our Lives is a compelling, original
story that is sure to touch you with its
humanity and universal wisdom.
Enchanting, entrancing and always
entertaining.
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/159
0211472/ref=cm_pdp_rev_itm_img_2
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
by Dan Stone
Enchanting. Entrancing. Entertaining
Anyone who grew up feeling different
will love this bewitching tale of love,
romance and redemption. The Rest of
Our Lives is a compelling, original
story that is sure to touch you with its
humanity and universal wisdom.
Enchanting, entrancing and always
entertaining.
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/159
0211472/ref=cm_pdp_rev_itm_img_2
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
Worlds Asunder
by Kirt Hickman
As a kid, I was addicted to science
fiction. From Tom Swift to Isaac
Asimov, Robert A. Heinlein and Ray
Bradbury, I devoured them all. I even
took a sci-fi lit course in college. But
apart from a brief return to the genre
in the '80s for Margaret Atwood's The
Handmaid's Tale, it's been 30 years
since I've read any science fiction. I
just wasn't into it.
Kirt Hickman's debut novel, Worlds
Asunder, may have cured me of my
indifference. Or perhaps it's just
created a new addition: to Hickman's
storytelling.
The science in Worlds Asunder is
credible and, given Hickman's
engineering background, probably
accurate. But it's the fiction side of the
"science fiction" label that kept me
wanting more. Clean, clear and
compelling, Hickman's action-packed
story gripped me from the first page
and didn't release me until its
satisfying conclusion 260 pages later.
Worlds Asunder is a great read --
whether you're a sci-fi aficionado or
just like a first-class story. I'm looking
forward to whatever Hickman comes up
with next.
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Worlds-Asunde
r-Kirt-C-Hickman/dp/0979633001/ref=sr
_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1255644
926&sr=1-2
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
by Kirt Hickman
As a kid, I was addicted to science
fiction. From Tom Swift to Isaac
Asimov, Robert A. Heinlein and Ray
Bradbury, I devoured them all. I even
took a sci-fi lit course in college. But
apart from a brief return to the genre
in the '80s for Margaret Atwood's The
Handmaid's Tale, it's been 30 years
since I've read any science fiction. I
just wasn't into it.
Kirt Hickman's debut novel, Worlds
Asunder, may have cured me of my
indifference. Or perhaps it's just
created a new addition: to Hickman's
storytelling.
The science in Worlds Asunder is
credible and, given Hickman's
engineering background, probably
accurate. But it's the fiction side of the
"science fiction" label that kept me
wanting more. Clean, clear and
compelling, Hickman's action-packed
story gripped me from the first page
and didn't release me until its
satisfying conclusion 260 pages later.
Worlds Asunder is a great read --
whether you're a sci-fi aficionado or
just like a first-class story. I'm looking
forward to whatever Hickman comes up
with next.
Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Worlds-Asunde
r-Kirt-C-Hickman/dp/0979633001/ref=sr
_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1255644
926&sr=1-2
Reviewed by Mark David Gerson
Without a Home
by Author Elaine Marlier
Reviewd by Stephanie Modkins
Have you ever read a story and wondered what in the heck made the
author write it? It was cheesy, one dimensional and meaningless. You
wished you'd never spent your hard earned money to buy the book.
Well, thank heavens there are still authors out there with purpose. One
of them is Elaine Marlier.
Elaine Marlier is an animal lover who writers stories under the title
"Without A Home." What are they about? These are stories about animal
adoption. Marlier wants everyone to know how beautiful the adoption of a
dog, cat or almost any animal can be to a human. It is a transformative
process that effects both the adoptee and adopter.
The stories in "Without A Home" are heartwarming and meant to touch a
special part of anyone who reads them. They can be used to inspire
people to open up their home to a four-legged friend. Sound like
something you'd want to read? Well, don't look for "Without A Home" in
the book stores. Elaine Marlier has a special way of selling them.
Instead of placing her books in a store window, Marlier goes on the road
to events that promote or are connected to pet adoption. However, if you
are eager to pick up one of her books now, you can through her
publisher DNJ books. Just visit their Website at www.dnjbooks.com.
Now, doesn't Elaine Marlier sound like the kind of woman who is using
her talent in the right way? She's got the right kind of spirit. It's one that
supports all of God's creatures big and small.
by Author Elaine Marlier
Reviewd by Stephanie Modkins
Have you ever read a story and wondered what in the heck made the
author write it? It was cheesy, one dimensional and meaningless. You
wished you'd never spent your hard earned money to buy the book.
Well, thank heavens there are still authors out there with purpose. One
of them is Elaine Marlier.
Elaine Marlier is an animal lover who writers stories under the title
"Without A Home." What are they about? These are stories about animal
adoption. Marlier wants everyone to know how beautiful the adoption of a
dog, cat or almost any animal can be to a human. It is a transformative
process that effects both the adoptee and adopter.
The stories in "Without A Home" are heartwarming and meant to touch a
special part of anyone who reads them. They can be used to inspire
people to open up their home to a four-legged friend. Sound like
something you'd want to read? Well, don't look for "Without A Home" in
the book stores. Elaine Marlier has a special way of selling them.
Instead of placing her books in a store window, Marlier goes on the road
to events that promote or are connected to pet adoption. However, if you
are eager to pick up one of her books now, you can through her
publisher DNJ books. Just visit their Website at www.dnjbooks.com.
Now, doesn't Elaine Marlier sound like the kind of woman who is using
her talent in the right way? She's got the right kind of spirit. It's one that
supports all of God's creatures big and small.
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 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| A Small Gift to Robin Falls |
Being Frank with Anne
by Phyllis Johnson
For her thirteenth birthday on 12 June 1942, Anne Frank, received
a book she had shown her father in a shop window a few days
earlier. Although it was an autograph book, bound with
red-and-green plaid cloth and with a small lock on the front, Anne
decided she would use it as a diary.
In "Being Frank with Anne" Phyllis Johnson, brings us new insight on
Anne Frank, and her short-lived life. Taking an entry from Anne
Frank's personal diary "Kitty" Johnson, gives us the poetic take on
what happened on that day, in Anne Frank's life. Being a fourteen
year old girl, myself, I can relate to Anne, and her feelings of being
misunderstood, and wanting to achieve the greater things that life
has to offer.
In this beautifully, written collection of poems, you will feel pain; when
Anne feels pain. You will feel longing; when Anne is yearning for
something that is not in her reach. And you will feel happiness; in
the moments that Anne felt any happiness at all. Phyllis Johnson
gives us this book with over one hundred, heartfelt poems that will
touch you deep inside, and leave you with a new understanding and
perspective on what emotion was behind that diary entry, so many
years ago. This book is a must have for any fan of Anne Frank,
Phyllis Johnson, Poetry, or just the love of an all-around great book.
You will not be sorry you read this book. You will be grateful to have
read a book about something as important and touching, as Anne
Frank.
"I finally realized that I must do my schoolwork to keep from being
ignorant, to get on in life, to become a journalist, because that's
what I want! I know I can write ..., but it remains to be seen whether I
really have talent...
And if I don't have the talent to write books or newspaper articles, I
can always write for myself. But I want to achieve more than that. I
can't imagine living like Mother, Mrs. van Daan and all the women
who go about their work and are then forgotten. I need to have
something besides a husband and children to devote myself to! ... I
want to be useful or bring enjoyment to all people, even those I've
never met. I want to go on living even after my death! And that's why
I'm so grateful to God for having given me this gift, which I can use
to develop myself and to express all that's inside me! When I write I
can shake off all my cares. My sorrow disappears, my spirits are
revived! But, and that's a big question, will I ever be able to write
something great, will I ever become a journalist or a writer?"
Anne Frank, wrote, on Wednesday, 5 April 1944,
Yes, Anne. You did write something great. And Phyllis Johnson
keeps your voice going for many years to come.
Reviewed by
Angel Snyder
by Phyllis Johnson
For her thirteenth birthday on 12 June 1942, Anne Frank, received
a book she had shown her father in a shop window a few days
earlier. Although it was an autograph book, bound with
red-and-green plaid cloth and with a small lock on the front, Anne
decided she would use it as a diary.
In "Being Frank with Anne" Phyllis Johnson, brings us new insight on
Anne Frank, and her short-lived life. Taking an entry from Anne
Frank's personal diary "Kitty" Johnson, gives us the poetic take on
what happened on that day, in Anne Frank's life. Being a fourteen
year old girl, myself, I can relate to Anne, and her feelings of being
misunderstood, and wanting to achieve the greater things that life
has to offer.
In this beautifully, written collection of poems, you will feel pain; when
Anne feels pain. You will feel longing; when Anne is yearning for
something that is not in her reach. And you will feel happiness; in
the moments that Anne felt any happiness at all. Phyllis Johnson
gives us this book with over one hundred, heartfelt poems that will
touch you deep inside, and leave you with a new understanding and
perspective on what emotion was behind that diary entry, so many
years ago. This book is a must have for any fan of Anne Frank,
Phyllis Johnson, Poetry, or just the love of an all-around great book.
You will not be sorry you read this book. You will be grateful to have
read a book about something as important and touching, as Anne
Frank.
"I finally realized that I must do my schoolwork to keep from being
ignorant, to get on in life, to become a journalist, because that's
what I want! I know I can write ..., but it remains to be seen whether I
really have talent...
And if I don't have the talent to write books or newspaper articles, I
can always write for myself. But I want to achieve more than that. I
can't imagine living like Mother, Mrs. van Daan and all the women
who go about their work and are then forgotten. I need to have
something besides a husband and children to devote myself to! ... I
want to be useful or bring enjoyment to all people, even those I've
never met. I want to go on living even after my death! And that's why
I'm so grateful to God for having given me this gift, which I can use
to develop myself and to express all that's inside me! When I write I
can shake off all my cares. My sorrow disappears, my spirits are
revived! But, and that's a big question, will I ever be able to write
something great, will I ever become a journalist or a writer?"
Anne Frank, wrote, on Wednesday, 5 April 1944,
Yes, Anne. You did write something great. And Phyllis Johnson
keeps your voice going for many years to come.
Reviewed by
Angel Snyder