It’s PURE TRASH (Historical Fiction/short story), a Compelling Prequel to the novel DOG BONE SOUP. The year is 1955. Remember the Good Old Days? You know, the 1950s and ‘60s, when America was flying high. The All American Family lived a life filled with hopes and dreams and life’s necessities too. Shawn Daniels isn’t your typical American Boomer Boy. No, Shawn is a poor boy. He can’t join Boy Scouts or sports teams. There’s not even enough money for necessities. Besides, Shawn doesn’t have time for that. But when chores are done, there’s always fishing!
In this short story, Shawn and Willie Daniels are off on a Saturday adventure in search of trash to turn into treasure. It is going to be a great day. Shawn is sure of it. No school and no bullies to remind him that he’s not one of the crowd. This is a story about bullies and what it’s like to be bullied (and not just by kids). It may redefine your definition of bullying. If you were a child who was thought of as “different” in some way, you know what bullying is about: torment, persecution, intimidation, to name a few of its synonyms. For Shawn and Willie, their difference was based upon the social status of a dysfunctional family and the alcoholism and abject poverty in which they grew up.
Review: I thoroughly enjoyed reading this short work. I was consistently reminded of moments from my own childhood… hunting for empty cans and bottles, riding my bike, playing marbles in the school yard, and yes, even wishing I could be invisible.
This work was recommended to me by my editor, and now I know why… Most enjoyable!
You’re most welcome, Bette. 🙂
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My pleasure, Bette!
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I haven’t read, Dog Bone Soup yet… really need to get in gear! lol
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Thanks so much for reading PURE TRASH, Kevin, and thanks to your awesome followers for their comments too! ❤
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Reblogged this on Bette A. Stevens, Maine Author and commented:
Read all about it! Thanks so much for your thoughtful review of PURE TRASH, Keven Cooper… and to your readers for their lovely comments about this 1950s short story too.
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A fabulous book and a great preview to Bette’s longer work. Dog Bone Soup. Both made a strong impression on me!
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Thanks Annika. Yes, it does that!
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A great review of an enthralling book and one that has stayed with me. It totally transported me to the era!
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Thank you, Darlene. It’s good to know when other readers can relate to a review.
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I too loved this book. A great review.
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