Heat Level 3 – PG-13

The Pugilist Poets of Venice by Jon Sindell

“A rollicking, big-hearted tale, full of laughter, bravery and unflinching humanity.”
~ Emily Kiernan, The Great Divide

A Boomer, an Xer, and a Millennial walk into a book and ask: “Are friends really `the family we choose for ourselves?’ And how cool is cool, really?”

Meet Hammerhead Hirsch, a charismatic middle-aged boho known in the 60s as The Pugilist Poet for his Golden Gloves boxing crown and Beat poetry chops. Thirty years later Head has become a first-time father, and his joy is immense—until the mom bolts. Can Head last fifteen rounds as a single dad with a paltry income, scanty prospects, biting demons, and a “ball-and-chain” kid? The tale is told by a worshipful youth who accompanies Head and his son on a turbulent yet often hilarious
ten-year ride.

“Prose that zings, swings and frequently sings.” ~ Tracy DeBrincat, Hollywood Buckaroo

“Funny, sad, relatable and engrossing.” ~ Stephen D. Gutierrez, American Book Award

“With unflinching honesty, humor and a keen eye for detail, Sindell brings unforgettable characters to life.” ~ Martin McCaw, The Low Road

Say Not “What If” by Andrew Friedman

A dying man craves the time he has lost. Written as a long rhyming poem, Say Not “What If” recounts his journey and the consequences of the choices he makes in a desperate desire to stay alive. Exceptionally easy to read and understand, many readers have praised the power and thought provoking nature of this unique story. What would you do for more time?

“This was a lyrical masterpiece! Very deep with an important life lesson woven in. Excellent from start to finish, and highly recommended by me.”

“This literary work is something incredibly special. I highly recommend this book, and hope that its life lessons will stay with us for the rest of our journey.”

“The paradox of a man’s dying despair with the lyrical rhyming was intoxicating. Easy to read, and emotionally provocative, Mr. Friedman has written a truly unique short story.”

“This poetic short story is so gripping and compelling that you won’t stop reading. And more than reading, I was almost singing along with the story, it was so beautifully written.”

“Say Not “What If” is a beautifully written piece of literature with a dark heart at its core. The stark contrast between the lovely poetry and all the things that made this ugly was severe but it was also what made the story . . . beautiful in an uncanny way.”

“I found myself truly submerged in the story. I read it in one afternoon and it left me with lots to think about, which, really, is what books are all about.”