For a fun bit of light reading this summer, might we humbly recommend
Greetings From Belleville, New Jersey - Collected Writings by Anthony Buccino. Well, no, it's not a travel book, but you could sort of travel back in time if you're of a certain generation. And, no, it's not a book that's full of laughs, but you might find yourself laughing.
Here's a bit of what a critic said about the book:
"The author gives a
heartfelt glimpse into life in his hometown. It will appeal most to others from
similar places, but the nostalgia and reminiscence will appeal to all readers
who long for the home and life of their youth....
"The author's writing
is friendly and easy to relate to, but sometimes he spends too long discussing
things in depth that most readers are already familiar with (like defrosting
early electric freezers). The author's friendly voice sounds like a neighbor
swapping great stories on the back porch. Readers feel like they know the
author, his family, and his town.
"The author's casual
voice occasionally lends itself to informal grammar and word usage. While many,
many details have the ring of familiarity, the author also brings out the
unique aspects of his own experience. The author's humor, thankfulness, and
openness are the book's greatest assets. The cover image suggests a more rural
life than the small town setting depicted in the book."
Well, that gives you an idea. You can form your own opinions when you've read it. If you like it you'll probably like the original collections where some of these essays were first collected.
And, you know, it makes a really nice gift for your friend who has everything.
