Review for MY DOG TIM AND OTHER STORIES

Join WITS author's assistant Vonnie Faroqui on Friday, July 9, 2010, for an interview with author Garasamo Maccagnone.



Book Title: MY DOG TIM AND OTHER STORIES
Author: Garasamo Maccagnone
ISBN: 978-1-4327-5562-1
Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc. (2010)
Link to purchase: Amazon/MyDogTim
Reviewer Byline: Vonnie Faroqui

In spite of its seemingly innocuous title, My Dog Tim and Other Stories is a raw, gritty, poignantly honest, and often humorous collection of short stories that will appeal to an adult audience. Author Garasamo Maccagnone wastes no time in immediately engaging his audience with the longest story in the collection, “St. John of the Midfield.” Garasamo continues, with each narrative taking the reader on a rollercoaster ride, touching a variety of themes including: sports, family, relationships, crime, race, religion, faith, and the beloved childhood pet. As a storyteller, Garasamo’s writing talent exhibits a wide range and depth of perspective.

“Goalie Boy” is my favorite story among the nine. The image of an overzealous, underachieving parent, attempting to live life through their child, as seen from the kid’s perspective, makes for a very interesting read. Perhaps everyone will be able to identify with his sexual awkwardness as Goalie Boy comes of age, a comic highpoint. This story ends with an unexpected and disturbing turn as the reader lives through an entire childhood, experiencing both triumph and despair.

The tale of “White Fang” will remind readers of their childhood experiences, when revenge and vendettas among siblings were a source of limitless fun and often painful consequences that become priceless memories.

Regardless of one’s religion, “The Note Giver” illustrates that common figures, personalities, and failings can be found in any belief system. When confronted with uninvited truths, reactions are universal in nature.
From first to last, Garasamo Maccagnone demonstrates a flexibility of wit and realism that makes My Dog Tim and Other Stories a captivating read. Garasamo doesn’t hold back. His characters come to life and grip you. When one story ends, he leaves you eager for the next.