Publisher's Synopsis
The concept for this story was provided by an artist friend of ours whose creation, "Gentle Persuasion," ignited a spark of an idea in Steve for a tale of innocence and hope. He proposed it to the artist and suggested she ask writer friends of hers to consider the project. Her reply, along with my support, was to convince Steve to accept the challenge and, after much cajoling, he accepted. It turned into a mission lasting over one year and the result, I feel, is definitely worth the wait.
This is a story of sensitivity, pathos and humor as told through the charmingly simple narrative of Bean, a benevolent and immortal spirit, while at the same time involving the reader in complex thought-provoking voyages into political, religious, social and historical arenas.
It is a heartbreaking tale of a young lad stricken with the malady of autism and of his family's sincere love and commitment to his plight.
It is a tale seasoned with the introduction of a group of characters who have left their imprint, either directly or indirectly, on the life of that boy and, hopefully, on the reader.
The story has been read by many people in all walks of life and encompassing diverse interests. While the reviews varied, as one would imagine, the major consensus of the feedback has been wildly enthusiastic: "I laughed, I cried, you made me think about things I haven't thought of before" this comment, although paraphrased any number of times, has been received from both male and female readers alike.
This is the author's first novel. His background has been in the arts where he won awards as a graphic designer; dabbled with sculpture, illustration, interior design, and jewelry design, and as an award winning advertising photographer, which was his main occupation for thirty-one years. Prior to writing this novel, Steve had garnered a respected reputation, as well as numerous awards, as a scrimshander until problems with his eyesight put an end to that endeavor.
The story of Bean and Ricky is a compilation of his vivid imagination, off times cynical sense of humor, personal experience and research succinctly gathered over a lifetime of keen observation.
I sincerely believe that Bean is the embodiment of Steve's thoughts and beliefs and, while espousing pessimism, Steve is definitely a closet optimist.
Mary Ann Smania-Stuart: BS; MA; MS; PhD; World's Who's Who of Women; International Who's Who of Intellectuals...and wife.
2009
