Aquarius Books

This play was absolutely fantastic. Our school - Wawasee High School- put this show on last week, and I was honored to be a part of it. I played the voice of the writer in the scene "The Audition" and enjoyed doing it very much! Please buy this, you will love it. Especially if you enjoy Chekhov's works.

They put this play on at my school, and I was laughing the whole way through, especially in the "War" section with the Army and the Navy. Oh who am I kidding, THE WHOLE THING was that funny. You will never regret buying this, it is a buried treasure to literature just waiting to be performed, or read, with enthusiastic gusto!

Last year my high school put on this show and I had the duty of playing both the general and the banker at the end. This was by far the funnest show I was a part of. I think this is probably among the funniest neil simon show up there with the odd couple and rumors which I also was able to perform in as Lenny Ganz. If you are looking for something fun to perform look no farther because you found it right here.

im am a 10th grader and my high school just put on THE GOOD DOCTOR i was the man in the DOWENED MAN its was great my favroit is the DEFFENSLES CREATUR. great
BUY THIS PLAY

Neil Simon molds the stories of Anton Chekhov into exquisitely timed, often hilarious theatre, dramatizing seven stories which incorporate a wide variety of characters--a governess, a lady of the night, a blustering general, a wild woman with a nervous disorder, a roué flirting with a new bride, a man who earns money by "drowning," and an actress. The stories, adapted for the stage, are filled with dry humor, surprise endings, and clever common people in confrontations with "superiors," ending in absurdities. "The Writer," obviously Chekhov, who himself was a "good doctor," acts as narrator and serves to connect the various scenes.

The short stories/plays, all filled with irony, include "The Sneezer," who cannot apologize enough to a general for splattering a sneeze on his head. In "The Governess," an employer tricks a subservient governess out of her pay. "The Seduction" shows a man-about-town using a husband as the conduit for his attempted seduction of the man's new bride. "The Drowned Man" claims to be in the "maritime entertainment business" and will drown himself for a small fee. "The Defenseless Creature," a particularly hilarious scene, features a clever wife suffering from a "nervous disorder," who tries to extort money from a banker. In "The Arrangement" a father takes his shy, 19-year-old son to a house of ill repute.

The most challenging scene for an actor is "The Audition." An actress who has walked for four days from another city in order to try out for a play, arrives with a temperature of 103, then insists on doing the audition. Playing the parts of all three sisters from Chekhov's The Three Sisters, the actress begins as a sensitive sister, then bursts into tears on cue as the second sister, and ultimately becomes rational, composed, and straightforward as the third, the changes of mood requiring split second timing.

Throughout the play, a running joke revolves around Chekhov's reputation as a less "beloved" writer than Tolstoy and Turgenev. Often dealing with suffering characters, the scenes show that there is a kind of absurd humor underlying even the most tragic of circumstances. Though "Some of us are indeed trapped," and many are suffering, the world itself, according to Chekhov, has "gone mad." If one can see the humor in this mad world, life becomes bearable. Mary Whipple

There is so much to say that I will have to force myself to be brief.

I tend to speed read my way through books but Crossroads 1969 demanded my time and I was glad to give it. This is the type of book that should be read more widely and maybe, through more exposure for the author in Amazon Shorts, it will be. Reading it reminded me that there are probably more John Cassells out there who, with one simple break, could be acknowledged as some of the great writers of our time.

John Cassell describes Crossroads as 'based on a true story' and his decriptions of people and events are so real, so 'in the moment', that he most certainly must have experienced them first hand. That said, it is one thing to experience a person or event and quite another to put it down on paper in a manner that gives the reader a sense of having watched it happen. That is Mr. Cassell's true gift. The people who populate the pages of Crossroads, from the drunk singing his own interpretation of "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling", to the centred and sensible Marcie, to the the bribable Spanish customs official, are so well described that I felt like I had just watched a movie instead of reading a book.

I am grateful to Amazon Shorts for providing a forum for my short stories but I am equally grateful that being there allowed me to make the acquaintance of John and other fine writers. Without the Shorts program, Crossroads 1969 would never have found me and I would have missed something truly worth the reading.

Brother John, I kid you not when I say that this is a wonderful book. Well done and five stars!

>> I'd already begun the battle to secure a berth for myself in a seminary at Berkeley, having submitted the necessary applications and labored over the essay which was supposed to explain in detail why I wanted to become an Anglican priest. All my friends and family had their own ideas on the subject, ranging from the worst reasons to the best. Mine, I am afraid, would have probably surprised them all and could never have been included in the essay. In truth, I was looking for a dream world to inhabit, a small country parish in the west of England where I could write scholarly theological works, drink scotch, and go prematurely senile minding a turnip garden. <<

For me, there's no substitute for reading a passage of the author's own words, to get a sense of whether you'd want to read a book. For that reason, I often quote a passage from the book I'm reviewing, isolating a segment which exposes some of the most compelling or life-filled word usage. One of the many possible prime quotes of John W. Cassell's syntax in CROSSROADS: 1969, the above passage gives a feel for this author's rich, clear voice. That quote can be found in both CR: 69 and SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS.

When I read that passage, I was already pulling for this warm, intelligent, spirited young man to succeed in living in that dream world, even though I feared that reality of pure scholarly theology might not even exist within the darkened political arenas of religious sanctuaries, except in a few very isolated, monkish cases. I wanted that world to exist, if only for John Cassell to be able to cloister himself into that dreamed type of sacred luxury of religious ecstasy and intrigue.

But, as the novel's plot developed and I saw how John was blocked from entry into that dream world, it was too clear that another world and path awaited this young man's footprints. It didn't take long before the author Cassell's words immersed the reader into subcultures of different paths and possibilities, each disallowed or road-forked-way for various reasons. Each time I fully shared John's disappointments, as I admired his ways of moving ever onward into whatever experiences he lived, through nightmares and joys, catastrophes and raptures, empty spaces and intrigues.

One thing John's life and his books do not provide is any whiff or hint of boredom. Enthrallment is in there, for keeps!

In this case, the enthrallment was not only through a philosophical journey with fascinating directional changes (as intriguing as those in the Tin Man's Quantum Leap out of the Kansas of his heroine's childhood); it's the most unusual travelogue you'll ever read on a USA citizen touring Europe and North Africa in more intimate ways than possible through friends who "live there"... and with less (almost equal) means than it would take to buy a Kindle Reader. Kindle: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device (John's novels are available through Kindle, too.)

I recommend taking the journeys through Cassell's novels, either in physical book form, and/or through Kindle. Eventually, I'll own both/all forms of this pioneering author's works now forming their place within The Classic Literature of the Next Age.

CROSSROADS: 1969 may be my favorite of JWC's novels listed below, though now that SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS: 1969-1970 is out, that would be my favorite of those two, because that is where this saga of a series is seeded, and because my blurb is included in the opening quotes from, "What other writers are saying about John W. Cassell."

There are a few logical ways to approach a step into reading the sequential counterculture novels of John W. Cassell:

-- One is to begin with CROSSROADS: 1969 (published 2005) and follow that with AN AQUARIAN TRAGEDY: 1970 (published 2006 under pseudonym James Mundell). An Aquarian Tragedy

-- Another is to begin with SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS (published November, 2007) Soldier of Aquarius: 1969-1970 SoA is a compilation of the two above novels; the two component novels were formatted for each other in their original united state.

After reading the pair of books (CR & AAT) or the original manuscript which had both of those novels in one (SoA), the road fork would offer:

-- ODYSSEY: 1970 Odyssey: 1970

That novel gives a brief summary of CR, then covers the plot of AAT with a few chapters added to extend the protagonist's experiences through the whole year of '70, the effect of which broadens the view (through the expanded time structure and interjected research of major, news-breaking events) of what Cassell calls the Counterculture movement, with its multi-angle-motivations (realistically exposing dark and bright). Whereas CR & AAT focus on an individual's personal perspective of how he reacted to and worked within and through those timeframes; ODYSSEY presents a broader cultural perspective, looking outward into the world as well as inward into the psychological, sociological impositions and enhancements of the same individual.

The author's suggestion is to read CR:69 + Odyssey:1970... or S of A.

Then, the sequence would be as follows:

-- HELL'S QUEST: 1971 Hell's Quest: 1971

This novel continues from the base of either of the above alternatives, through the same protagonist, based on the author himself. In HQ, however, the author adds extensive (and fascinating) fictionalized elements to some of his biographical base, whereas the other novels listed above are based strongly on autobiographical realities.

-- DEVILLIER'S COUNTRY BLUES: 1972 DeVilliers County Blues: 1972

This novel continues where HQ leaves off, including the addition of fictionalized elements into a biographical basis, with the balance of fiction continuing to increase.

-- UNCERTAIN PARADISE: 1973: Part 1 (Release scheduled for late December, 2007)

This novel continues where DCB leaves off, with the balance of fiction again increasing. This novel is a satisfying read in itself, even if Part 2 does not materialize. However, you will be wanting more of JWC's novels, no matter what books you read first.

Take time to visit our discussion forum in the Amazon Shorts category, "A toast to John Cassell's novel, "HELL'S QUEST: 1971, an ongoing commentary."

That forum title has evolved well beyond a seminar on writing within a successful story format, for short pieces, novels, or sequencing sagas; yet in its evolution that forum has remained carefully focused on highly informative concepts related to writing while using Cassell's works as the baseline for comment. If you're at all interested in an X-ray view of "authorship-in-progress" or completion of Nobel Prize worthy literature, you'll feel satisfied with what you'll find there. Maybe the best part is that many of those contributing to that forum are still alive and writing... though a few quickened characters, ghosts, and poltergeists did and do apply!

From your friendly, local (on Amazon) parapsychologist,
Linda G. Shelnutt
Morning Comes: the Pre Dawn Blues - Part 1

Review of John W. Cassell's "Crossroads: 1969" (Once, We Were Young) - By Jack Engelhard

John W. Cassell traveled to Europe in search of America and to understand this it helps to be a Child of the 60s -though in a sense we are all Children of the 60s since the art, the music, the literature and even the politics of that era, all of it is still very much alive. In "Crossroads: 1969," Cassell' uses a bio-novel technique to recover the past - the second half the 1960s and into the 1970s - and the result is a masterful rendering of an era.

In trying to find America, through the backroads and the highways of Europe, Cassell was obviously trying to find himself as well, and this no one ever achieves, something nearing perfection, but it's the pursuit itself that makes for an exhilarating adventure; in this case, Cassell's adventure, wherein he introduces us to new landscapes and new people, and we never know, until we turn the page, who might be waiting for him around the next corner.

Cassell writes it straight and his most noticeable skill is in his ability to take us with him wherever he goes. We're with him when a friend turns into an enemy and we're with him when strangers turn into friends and we're with him when at any moment he could be arrested by the French police or the Spanish police - or the dreaded ESTABLISHMENT.

We understand his shyness toward women at a time when women were getting bolder. This took some of us off stride.

This is all about being young and the 1960s were about many things, but mostly about being young. America, during that period, was going through the symptoms of birthing, or rather, renewal. America was trying to figure out exactly what kind of nation it wanted to be. Therefore, there was that, the Establishment, and then there was the counterculture.

Like so many of us, Cassell found himself caught in the middle. Lucky for us that he turned to writing to share the excitement of a nation and a man still unfinished.

The adventure continues.

Today, the lines are much more clear-cut. You're left or you're right. Back then, we were still trying to make up our minds.

The 1960s were the defining decade of a generation. But which America was the correct one for us?

Cassell doesn't lecture or pontificate. He only observes and lets us, his readers, arrive at the conclusions. That's what we call good writing, and as so often happens in this bio-novel - great writing. There are so many nuggets to choose from here, but Cassell pretty much puts his finger on what the 1960s were all about when he writes: "The future was certainly ours - there was nothing but time. Yet there was not a moment to lose."

What a beautiful snapshot! Yes, we knew that at this moment the decade belonged to us, we were all in revolt, and yet we recognized that at any moment it could all be over. Vietnam was happening, after all, and the cities were burning, and everybody, it seemed, had issues, so we knew that it could not last. How long could we continue to protest when at some point we'd actually have to raise a family and earn a living? We'd have to cut our hair and most likely join a corporation - the Establishment.

One day we would have to grow up.

Cassell did grow up and what an incredible bio he developed over the years, much too long and storied to repeat here, except to note that out of all that, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, served as a New Mexico State Trooper, and also served as a district attorney - but that only touches on his many achievements.

His greatest achievement, though, as far as this reviewer is concerned, is in reminding us that once upon a time we were young. Once upon a time everything was possible.

Maybe such a time will come round again.

Bravo, John W. Cassell!

Jack Engelhard's latest novel, "The Bathsheba Deadline," is now available in paperback. Engelhard wrote the international bestselling novel "Indecent Proposal."

John W. Cassell is an author of extraordinary talent. His descriptive style, wit and smooth prose take you along on his journey, which is not only interesting, but captures the imagination and takes one to boundless territories.

If you never read any of John W. Cassell's work, you have missed more than just a little. You have missed adventure, excitement, romance, and wonderful trips, journeys, where you feel, almost believe, you are there with him sharing his sometimes wild, sometimes hair-raising, and often just plain fun adventures. Definitely five stars for this very, very talented writer.

John's story begins in his teens, and probably long before, where he is searching for something better than what he is accustomed. Disillusioned and with a certain sense of emptiness, he decides to embark upon that quest. He doesn't want to consider graduate school, as is strongly suggested. Instead, he wants to travel to Europe and soon has a passport. However, John and his friend Chris work for several months, while John is saving up money for his journey.

Following months of hard labor, John finally finds himself on his mother's porch, saying goodbye to his mother and brother, Barry. Mixed with the excitement of what may lie ahead, is fear and apprehension. Still, this is something he has to do.

In England, John is stunned when he learns that his acceptance into King's College, London was a mistake. It had been believed that it was his brother Barry who had applied. Once more, John feels the pain of humiliation from his childhhod that he'd fought against for years to overcome.

John enjoys the wonderful meals of England, but when he travels to France, he finds the bread really good and the coffee very bitter. And he finds he has difficulty chewing the delicious bread and believes it is a molar problem, but later comes to realize it is much more serious.

John makes many friends, some strange, some mysterious and some really close, male and female alike. He travels a good deal by bicycle, often taking daring chances, entering tunnels where he could find himself approaching head-on with a car or truck. Picking apples from orchards in France and nearly getting killed, along with his French friend, who is something of an enigma, but he doesn't remain that way for long. John soon gets one of the biggest surprises of his life.

In Spain, John finds the people a little warmer and friendlier than some he has encountered on his trek, and his knowledge of Spanish is a definite plus, not only for himself, but for friends he makes along the way. However, he realizes that he must return home, one of the main reasons being his health.

At one point, he ends up getting arrested due to a misunderstanding. He realizes that no one who ever cared about him even knows what continent he is on. In this hell of a prison, he is beaten and bruised and receives a rifle jabbed at shoulder length into his spine. Then, just when he believes he is at death's door, he is suddenly assisted in cleaning up and finds himself a free man once more. But, for how long, he is not sure. He realizes though, that in spite of everything that has transpired, he has met some kind people.

At last, he turns back for home and finds himself at Victoria Station in London, England, anticipating a previously arranged meeting with Marcie, a young woman he met earlier on. He loses grip with himself on a train, and the conductor brings a Doctor Cordova in to check him out. Doctor Cordova proves to be a kind and sympathetic person. This is where it is discovered that John may have a very serious infection in his mouth, but the doctor, though very concerned, has no antibiotics. He makes John promise to get the problem taken care of as soon as possible. John manages to connect back with Marcie and soon makes his way back home, but he is a changed man, much wiser and more appreciative of what he has.

This is only a bare sketch, if you will, a short synopsis of a great - and I emphasize great - book. A journey of a young man. A must read! It is educational, entertaining, gripping, riveting, sometimes frightening and definitely inspiring. No less than five stars. There should be ten!

This story was a real page-turner, and one of my top three favorite Cooper Kids Books. Trust me, YOU WILL NOT WANT TO PUT IT DOWN!

Archeologist Dr. Jacob Cooper and his two kids, Jay and Lila, land on a mysterious island in search of a missing missionary, who was rumored to have drowned in the area. They meet a man who declares himself the missing man, but from his strange actions they suspect something is wrong. And what about the mysterious "curse" on the island?

What happens next is for you to find out.

Also check out The Tombs Of Anak and The Deadly Curse of Toco-Rey, books three and six in the Cooper Kids Series. Awesome books!

This, in my opinion, is the best of the series by Frank Peretti. I would rate this 10 stars if I could. It is a mixture of Indiana Jones, Hardy Boys, and Accidental Detectives. It is the most exciting of the Cooper books, yet it isn't scary, and it isn't gruesome. I reccomend this book to anyone over 10, because it is pretty intense.

Escape from the Island of Aquarius by Frank Peretti

In hopes of finding a missing missionary the famous Cooper Family were sent to locate and retrieve him. The family consists of the father Dr. Cooper, the daughter Lila, and the son Jay. The search began when a crew on a vessel found a dead body in a raft, looking thoroughly they found a note of the missionary, MacKenzie and a stone tablet with the symbol of Aquarius. Reaching the island they were greeted by a stranger with a mask yelling at them to leave. Following his trail they were led to a village, there they found MacKenzie ending up leading all the villagers. Not convinced by MacKenzie's charade the Cooper family investigated by sneaking by his hut, and learned of his impersonation of the reverend. Overall I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 because the personality of the book curves from bad to good too quickly.

This was the best in the series! It was really, really suspenseful. I like how it ties into the coming end times-about how the antichrist (no capitilization needed here,) will deceive people to become his followers, making them think he is a god or something, although he isn't a god at all. This is a wake-up call. We do not know when the rapture is becoming! In this book, the Coopers are trying to escape from an island that is literally tearing lose from its roots! But with the dangers from the tyrannical leader of the island and earthquakes, will they escape? And who will listen to the truthful message that they have to bring? Will they rescue the people from the tyrannical leader? And is this leader the kind missionary they expected to find? The suggested age level of these books is ages 10-14.

It's Frank Peretti's brilliant novel writing skills...condensed! It's a super-cool family of archeologists--minus a mother--who investigate phenomena in the spirit of Indiana Jones, only with a Christian perspective. A nice alternative to the gore and junk in the Indiana Jones movies.

In this book, Dr. Cooper and his kids visit the island mission of a missionary by the name of Adam McKenzie. However, it seems that things are amiss on the island. Their friend has become a patron of local myths and superstitions, and become involved in native rituals. Dr. Cooper is suspicious, and carefully investigates. What he encounters is not at all what he expected! With his life, his children's life, and island parishioners' lives at stake, the Coopers must all rely on Christ to help them Escape From the Island of Aquarius.

For the parents: This book doesn't contain as much death-and-skeleton type creepiness, but some more bizarre events that before. Still, as I said in my other reviews, I read them as a child, and loved them. I'd recommend them for any kid 10 or older.

I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Just thought it ended too abruptly, maybe because I didn't want it to end...

This was the first romance novel that I have read and it still is in my keepers shelf. This tale of passion starts with Sara, who is impersonating her actress sister Delight. To give Delight time to run away and get hitched to her paramour, Carlo,Sara needs to trick Marco (Carlo's brother) that Delight is really in town. After their meeting,Marc "kidnapps" Sara via his private plane and takes her to his mansian. Yeah, being the Duca di Cavalieri has certain advantages ;). The dialogue between Sara and Marco is amusing to say the least. And the pool scene is diabolic! No more said, you have to read it to get the rest of the story and the details. All in all, the sexual tension between them startS with A SPARK AND TURNS INTO AN ALL OUT BONFIRE!! Oh my, enjoy

Poor Sara! Golden haired and beautiful, sensitive and romantic, she is still forever overshadowed by the other women in her family. Mama Mona is the most glamorous movie star in Hollywood. Half sister Delight is the most wickedly adventurous porn star in the business. Sara is in the middle, wondering -- will any man ever find me desirable?

Enter Marco DeCavlieri, the most intense, passionate, possessive, and GORGEOUS hunk in all of Italy. Worth hundreds of millions, powerful and ruthless, Marco is still brutally protective of his family honor. When he hears that his silly younger brother Carlo has taken up with gold-digger Delight, he decides to take matters into his own hands!

What happens next is just too sexy to be described. It's sort of like mistaken identity, with a bit of kidnaping, only Sara soon finds she doesn't want to escape! Her beauty and goodness inflame the dark duke, so that soon he finds himself giving in to her instead of the other way around. And then -- oh, but I can't go on. Read it for yourself!

Magnificent, epic length, and sexy, this tale of passion between a proper English society girl and an uninhibited Italian Duke is truly the best of both worlds. It has the elegance, luxury and mystery of a great historical -- Marco is really more of a 16th century Corsair than a modern jet setter, even if he does have his own helicopter, sports car and mansion. On the other hand, golden-haired Sara is really more of an innocent, chaste, Jane Austen heroine, even if she is the daugher of a famous -- and sexually adventurous -- movie star.

Even the minor characters are fascinating, like Carlo, the Brooklyn born stepbrother Marco protects, and Delight, the party girl with a heart of gold, and even Serafina, the stern old housekeeper who functions as a mother figure for Sara. Great story, great romance, great settings and characters!

For such a twisted "love" triangle I throughly enjoyed Mrs. Rogers work, and I really didn't want this novel to end. It is a love story on a major detour, and is something I certainly wouldn't have thought of, but I am glad Mrs. Rogers did. As surprising as the plot was, I was even more surprised by the ending, and would really love to hear more about how all turned out in the end. I truly wish that more of the story was still left to read.

I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't help but be a little critical but I wish Rosemary would put a little more sex in her scenes. If you've read "The Insiders" now that was sexy and erotic, it really turned you on at times, but then again there were some scenes that were uncalled for. "The Insiders" was the beginning of my book collection. I also loved "Crowd Pleasers." Anyway, "Love Play" was fun to read. There was a lot of spitting drama between the two main characters which I enjoy. I thought Rosemary could have done a better job with the ending....it was just too easy to figure out that the characters would have been happily in love with each other. I mean she just went into "boy, I think I love you" and it was over. I thought if the two characters were going to keep bickering, their should have been a lot more passionate sex between the two and not in the last quarter of the book. I was getting tired of waiting till something sexual would happen. I've read a lot of Rosemary's novels and think this book will be my last. I've been reading a lot of Kat Martin books lately and I now have a new collection of her books. She has a lot of steamy loving, clean of course, sexy scenes that really turn you on and make you feel good and a very well written stories. You should check her out. Sorry fan readers. I guess I'm just a little more disappointed with Rosemary's books. Anyway, I really think this book is still worth reading. I just felt I had to speak my peace.

Odyssey: 1970

John, first I would like to thank you for making this fabulous piece of artistry available. To keep such work hidden in the mind would deprive us all a wonderful insight to living.

The artistry of Odyssey: 1970 comes through with the complexity, intelligence, effectiveness, and the use of the fundamental elements of language and narrative in which it was written.

The story captures aspects of human experience vividly, precisely and freshly. And John opens for us the emotional, moral, intellectual and social complexities of its theme.

The summation of Literary Gateway in John's work-at least for me- was the drawing in of my mind and imagination in such a way that I became involved in the issues and decisions with which the story confronted me. Finally, John persuaded a consideration of actions and issues that fit in with larger cultural, political, social, and intellectual concerns.

The following are examples of Literary Gateways, some sentences, some a few words, but never the less, most powerful: I paraphrase

"Salvation is just around the corner" During this period in time, people searched frantically for something to believe in, they certainly knew what they didn't believe, war.
Suddenly, the youth found a certain connection, whether it be because of (cause and effect) of the world around them, or the vacuum of destiny.

John speaks of people taking "Time Out" in that period of their lives. These two words found their mark in that vortex where I once lived, trapped in a consciousness which cannot be conscious of anything outside itself, war. I sank into the vortex, the maelstrom, suffocation by premature death; I became non-self while others became addicted to one poison or another. "Time Out"- the most turbulent of times.

"That Key" Rique knew its connection with John, what it stood for, and John, it may be at rest with Rique, but it remains in you. To Rique, the key was symbolic, a destiny, with you, your thought's dominion.

"I watched in awe as each individual sunbeam of the breaking dawn shot like a grayish-red rocket above the Sandia Mountains and exploded into the fast-lightening sky."
This particular passage arouses my mind, and out of interior compulsion, I reach that plane of a broadening cosmos.

Finally, I must admit, I found a portion of myself in Odyssey, a little Ernie, Vince, and John Cassell himself.

Robert A Meacham

After reading the very human search for meaningfulness of the protagonist in Crossroads: 1969, I had to read the sequel. The book paints a vivid and obviously knowledgeable portrait of a young man's coming of age in what had to be one of the most exciting yet challenging times in our country's history. The characters are fascinating and in many cases tragic. The reader comes to appreciate the destructive impact of the war in Vietnam on both sides of the politics as well as on young and old alike. The deadly cat-and-mouse duel of the protagonist and his rogue cop pursuer is compelling. The collision of the new values of the rebellious younger generation of those days with the realities of their world is vividly portrayed. As one who was not alive during those times, I found it a worthwhile literary journey, obviously fortified both with historical research and personal experience. Yet as one dealing with the challenges of young adulthood in the first decade of the new century, I also found both the conflicts and lessons depicted to be universal in their appeal.

All in all a great experience... a very human story with lots of excitement and some major surprises thrown in. I hope there will be a sequel.

after reading his first book, i just had to read this sequel to Crossroads. often staying up quite late to read, i was totally immersed in the lives of the characters. the author is very adept at plumbing the depths of his own & his characters' feelings. this gifted writer & story-teller unfolds a different time in america in such a real way - i was taken there to live it for myself & i hated for it to be over. i am DEFINITELY looking forward to his next releases.

This is nothing short of a landmark novel. The precision of research into this segment of history melded into the deeply significant personal experiences of an author seasoned in his art feature a finesse worthy of the literary classics. I've never read a book, fiction or non, which accomplished more in clarifying alternate angles in play during a heated, hassled period of recent times. The voice of this author on this subject is pure, clear, and charismatic.

As a slight sample of evidence of the verity of this praise, read an excerpt of the opening of chapter one of ODYESSY: 1970:

>> For a town of just over thirty-five thousand people, one telephone exchange and with tumbleweeds frequently blowing across its main north-south thoroughfare, Santa Fe, New Mexico boasted some pretty impressive distinctions. For one thing, at six thousand five-hundred feet and more above sea level, it was the highest altitude state capital in the country. To get there from Albuquerque, itself a mile above sea level, one had to limb a steep mountainside of almost a thousand feet before arriving at he plateau on which the town was located. From there, it angled upward even more as one approached the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.... I guess it was fitting that I should be spending the second full day of 1970 in such a place. I was boasting of some pretty impressive distinctions these days as well. <<

As added evidence that this novel is a hallmark of classic literature, note some of the chapter titles in the Table of Contents, which itself reads like a list of seasons of literary excellence:

1. Aquarian Passages
2. New Myths And Old Realities
3. The Wisest Eighteen Year Old In The World
4. More Streets And Roads
5. The Worm Turns
6. Menace And Movement
7. The Long March Back
8. Armageddon
9. Inside The Kaleidoscope
10. By The Dark Of The Moon
11. The Green Leaves Of Summer
12. The Attack Of The Badge People
*******
21 chapters conclude brilliantly with an Epilogue, Acknowledgments, Glossary Of 1970 Slang, Police Radio Ten Code, and a Bibliography on page 683 of this thick trade paperback worth lifetimes beyond its price (see also the Kindle version: Odyssey: 1970 (N/A)).

Kent State and Cambodia are dramatized and unearthed as the facets of politics and youth unbounded clash in an X-Ray exposure of cultural change in catalytic process.

In a discussion forum titled "Toasting John Cassell's HELL'S QUEST: 1972, An Ongoing Commentary," located in the Amazon Shorts main category, you'll find a quote (posted Feb 2, 2008 by author John W. Cassell of a passage in this novel) which you won't want to miss, including the commentary around that excerpt. That quote focuses a philosophical pivotal point upon which Cassell's collection of novels build a maturity of art and life which he has exquisitely executed and fully lived, with ODYESSEY: 1970 being a prime literary jewel in the crown of his books.

Don't miss reading the best examples of classic literature, at the moment in time of the author's pausing on a precipice of acknowledgment and accolade.

A link to the novel in the forum title noted above, Hell's Quest: 1971

With greatest admiration and respect for a friend and colleague,
Linda Shelnutt

Shelnutt is the author of several Amazon Shorts and Kindle books including:
Myrtle's Ultimate Mystery
Morning Comes: the Pre Dawn Blues - Part 1
The Rose and the Pyramid (The Books of Gem)
Full Moon Rising (The Books of Gem)
Quarter Moon Dues: Book Two (The Books of Gem)

I should probably not give such a title to John Cassell's 'Odyssey before reading the other two of his works that lie, expectantly, on my office desk but it is hard to believe that he can top this one. This is the third of his book's that I have read and each one confirms the man's talent.
Is 'Odyssey', in fact, a novel or a memoir? It matters little. You will be very quickly immersed in the 'age of Aquarius' and all of the turmoil that the era encapsulates. Whether describing, in amazing detail, the events at Kent State that, more than any other happening, ruptured sensibilities in the United States, or recounting intimate conversations with friends, lovers and would-be soul mates, Cassell manages to create enduring passages that should stand with the best ever written - and I am not being kind here, this is one of the best books (novel or memoir) that I have read.
There are numerous examples that I could quote to illustrate my point - a description of a man being '35, hard years, old', Linda's encounter with the Kent State riots (beautifully detailed, especially in the quiet leading up to the shattering climax), the anticipation of breakfast in Berkeley with Roberta etc. etc. I re-read many passages just for the pure pleasure that the prose created.
Well rounded characters, who interact seamlessly and believably - even when events have you asking 'how can that happen?', the characters and their dialogues will make you believe - inhabit a world that helped shape the USA in the late sixties and early seventies, in a novel/memoir that is as good as any written about the era, and better than most.
Do yourself a favor and read it, it is THAT good.
TW

From the description, this almost sounds like a 'between two worlds' type of story...but it's not. It's a grim-visaged man just shy of thirty years of age in 1977 looking at the college kids of that time...musing how they'd never subject their brightly colored outfits and neatly styled hairdo's to the nightstick like his brothers and sisters had done in 1970. "Another circle completed," he sighs. "WE are now the noisy elders acting out of sexual frustration." Through his remembrance of a fascinating young woman, with whom his protagonist had hitchhiked the highways of the American west, and the tragedy of her death, Mundell takes us on an emotionally charged fast-paced visual journey through police roadblocks, redneck cafes, semi sleeper compartments, student ghetto households, a carload of revolutionaries,streets full of dying speed freaks, rancid clouds of teargas, counterculture soup kitchens and many other authentic locales of the polarized, confrontational America of 1970. In less than three hundred pages is presented the full tragic, triumphal vista of a generation cut loose from its social moorings... and mores. The wondering, wandering protagonist provides the perfect medium for the reader to assimilate this scene, and draw one's own conclusions, yet the emotion pouring forth from the authentic characters of the counterculture he meets in his wandering cannot fail to grip the reader as well. I'm biased, of course, since the people Mundell introduces in the story were MY brothers and sisters in those long-gone but never to be forgotten days, just like the characters in the Duncan and Cassell books were, but I've read it three times in its brief lifespan since publication and have never failed to break down in tears at the end. Whether you've got a plane ride coming up or just a few hours at the end of another busy day, An Aquarian Tragedy is a worthwhile addition to the briefcase, the suitcase or the bookshelf! M. V. Dooley

From the description, this almost sounds like a 'between two worlds' type of story...but it's not. It's a grim-visaged man just shy of thirty years of age in 1977 looking at the college kids of that time...musing how they'd never subject their brightly colored outfits and neatly styled hairdo's to the nightstick like his brothers and sisters had done in 1970. "Another circle completed," he sighs. "WE are now the noisy elders acting out of sexual frustration." Through his remembrance of a fascinating young woman, with whom his protagonist had hitchhiked the highways of the American west, and the tragedy of her death, Mundell takes us on an emotionally charged fast-paced visual journey through police roadblocks, redneck cafes, semi sleeper compartments, student ghetto households, a carload of revolutionaries,streets full of dying speed freaks, rancid clouds of teargas, counterculture soup kitchens and many other authentic locales of the polarized, confrontational America of 1970. In less than three hundred pages is presented the full tragic, triumphal vista of a generation cut loose from its social moorings... and mores. The wondering, wandering protagonist provides the perfect medium for the reader to assimilate this scene, and draw one's own conclusions, yet the emotion pouring forth from the authentic characters of the counterculture he meets in his wandering cannot fail to grip the reader as well. I'm biased, of course, since the people Mundell introduces in the story were MY brothers and sisters in those long-gone but never to be forgotten days, just like the characters in the Duncan and Cassell books were, but I've read it three times in its brief lifespan since publication and have never failed to break down in tears at the end. Whether you've got a plane ride coming up or just a few hours at the end of another busy day, An Aquarian Tragedy is a worthwhile addition to the briefcase, the suitcase or the bookshelf!

This young man is four years older than me at the time of the adventures he flashes back to while on the plane to Albuquerque. I can FEEL his hunger...for food...sometimes for just a kind word from the woman that for reasons known but to him he has come to love. As far as I'm concerned there is more tragedy to the story than its stunning and highly emotional [for me anyway] outcome. His REAL love is right there with him all the time...she faces all the dangers of a very hostile road with him and they are such a team. Who wouldn't want a girlfriend like that? Yet he remains so devoted to Serena. And she remains so committed to Brent. This book gave me a very different insight into what the so-called Age of Aquarius was really like than we get in history books or in most accounts I've read. The anatomy of the Berkeley riot at the time of the moratorium was very interesting... in a disturbing way. The book calls up very deep emotion and seems to me it had to be true to be described so well. I read it all in one sitting. I found myself wishing the protagonist had gone on to the seminary, like he asks himself in his despair. Anyone interested in those times should read this...and discuss it on the Amazon forum.

This all too brief book is so immediate and lucid that you feel you know all the characters and places personally. The story runs headlong across the lives of young people living their dreams and heartache in America in the 60's. It lets you enter the lives of the characters so completely that you feel that you have travelled the same life's journey that they have travelled and you feel enriched thereby.

I spent the period of 'An Aquarian Tragedy' in my native Ireland, (with a European road trip thrown in there somewhere). The happenings of the late sixties and early seventies in the United States were just short sequences of images on a TV screen or a blurred photograph in the local newspapers. James Mundell has managed to bring that era in the US into sharp, almost painful, focus.
Gerry Prentice has all of the savvy of a seasoned traveler ... and all the naivete of a love sick thirteen year old. That such a character is utterly believable is testament to Mundell's talent.
"An Aquarian Tragedy' is a compelling study of an age that changed the country...and one young man's journey through it. So descriptive that you will feel the cold, experience the hunger and suffer the pains of forlorn love right along with Mr. Prentice as he moves inexorably to an ending that is both shocking and uplifting.
Five stars, becaue it deserves them.

SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS is a great place to step out into a new way of life, with a fascinating literary hero.

As is obvious from my discussion topic (in the Amazon Shorts forum on the USA Amazon site) toasting John Cassell's HELL'S QUEST: 1971, I've been reading this author's collection of novels for several months, following a surge in literary exploration which has caused that forum to evolve into a commentary on each of those novels, as well as into a seminar on novelists talking about their work and writing techniques, including how ghosts, poltergeists, and possession of an author by a quickened character are related concepts.

For the past several years I've been reading mostly mystery novel series as I enjoy the literary depth and continuity there. I escape into novels so thoroughly that I go through a minor grieving process when I finish a good one. Being able to follow a character through several books is a boon to that type of psyche, and to an author like me who also writes books in series.

Prior to becoming addicted to the unique voice of Cassell, I had made a study of Robert B. Parker's Spenser series, reviewing each novel in that series, then moving into his two other mystery series. Through Spenser I enjoyed comparing the 70's to present day, and following various details of the evolution of cultural change beginning in the 70's then pushing heatedly through the 80's, 90's, and 00's.

That craving led naturally, almost uncannily into Cassel's novels, which focus on the 1967-1973 seeding pivotal point of the huge number of philosophical, psychological, sociological changes which we're still sorting through today.

My problem with some of The Literary Classics has always been that reading them depressed me. I was usually left at the end of a read feeling that the best next course of action would be to leap off a cliff. I was always disgusted that such amazing literary skill, such exquisite syntax, such blood-rich character development, such balsamic plot complexity was used to elevate either the artistry of ennui or of horrifying tragedy... concluding with, "Is that all there is?" or "Life is NOT a bowl full of cherries; it is The Pits of Terror and Torture." The GREAT GATSBY was one such. The wordsmithing and storytelling ability in that novel are almost insurpassable. Yet, I feel nothing but an empty, horrible depression when I get into that book or movie. Even so, Gatsby is one of my favorite examples of a truly good novel.

Too many of the Classics, for me, are the perfect promotions for Prozac. Given a choice, I'd rather read Cassell, Parker, and Jack Engelhard (THE BATHSHEBA DEADLINE, see my review) and keep my natural chemistry intact.

What I like about those guys is that they provide engrossing entertainment, then leave me as a reader with a feeling of being well grounded into reality, including the dark sides, yet ready to work even harder to get what I want out of life and to spark others to do the same with their lives, through my writing.

When I read I seek a spirit lift. I get enough daily drains on my life force from reality. I can't see welcoming them into my mind when I'm wanting the regenerating factor of an escape into an enthralling world created in my mind by another healthy mind.

It'll be a while yet, before I've come to the conclusion of indulging this wallow into the works of a great author stepping out.

I'm honored to say that my blurb has been included in this novel's publication, in good company with other authors raving SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS.

Linda Shelnutt

Shelnutt is the author of several Amazon Kindle books and Amazon Shorts, including Myrtle's Ultimate Mystery, Full Moon Rising (The Books of Gem), and Molasses Moon. Her trade paperback, The Rose and the Pyramid has become a collector's item, and is now available on Kindle The Rose and the Pyramid (The Books of Gem).

I have read this novel three times & will read it again.
All of John Cassell's novels are superbly written. The stories
are gripping & sure to please readers of all ages.
If it were possible to earn a ten star rating this Novel deserves it!
>
Soldiers of Aquarius 1969-1970 was a return to a wonderful, yet painful era in American history. Cassell takes you back to the days of "Make Love Not War","Peace" and "Hell No We Won't Go!" You get to travel with him from Atlantic City, New Jersey to Albuerque, New Mexico, then on to California and back. Many times with little or no money, through hot desert country and freezing cold. He lets you taste starvation,arrest, torture,loneliness and the confusion of youths living in those wonderful, stormy and often frightening days.

One needn't read far along in this action-filled dramatisation of coming of age in America's counterculture of 1969-1970 before realising they are holding a soon-to-be classic in their hands.

Written a scant six years after the fact, this book places the reader at the very centre of the action in 1969-1970,when the protagonist faces the end of a highly successful four years at university and now must decide what next.

Whilst working through this decision, the young protagonist finds himself at the very knife edge of the war then afoot between old and young: the expectations of the older generation; the yearnings of the younger. What follows is a tempestuous two years of life in the counterculture. This is the counterculture of drugs, free love, war protests and anarchy that had this country as close to revolution as it would ever get.

Within those two years are packed all the triumph and defeat one could ever hope to find as the young man's saga touches three continents and just about every emotion one couldst label. These two years are re-experienced as a flashback on an airline trip to Albuquerque in April of 1977. A trip with a very special, emotion-laden purpose...a purpose from which there is no going back. Indeed, the young man has only purchased a one-way ticket.

Those days are long gone as a matter of history, but they come alive once more through the riveting writing ability of Mr. Cassell, a man whose talents as one of America's best storytellers are just beginning to achieve the recognition they have long deserved. Five Stars awarded by Perry Carver

One needn't read far along in this action-filled dramatisation of coming of age in America's counterculture of 1969-1970 before realising they are holding a soon-to-be classic in their hands.

Written a scant six years after the fact, this book places the reader at the very centre of the action in 1969-1970,when the protagonist faces the end of a highly successful four years at university and now must decide what next.

Whilst working through this decision, the young protagonist finds himself at the very knife edge of the war then afoot between old and young: the expectations of the older generation; the yearnings of the younger. What follows is a tempestuous two years of life in the counterculture. This is the counterculture of drugs, free love, war protests and anarchy that had this country as close to revolution as it would ever get.

Within those two years are packed all the triumph and defeat one could ever hope to find as the young man's saga touches three continents and just about every emotion one couldst label. These two years are re-experienced as a flashback on an airline trip to Albuquerque in April of 1977. A trip with a very special, emotion-laden purpose...a purpose from which there is no going back. Indeed, the young man has only purchased a one-way ticket.

Those days are long gone as a matter of history, but they come alive once more through the riveting writing ability of Mr. Cassell, a man whose talents as one of America's best storytellers are just beginning to achieve the recognition they have long deserved. Five Stars awarded by Perry Carver

One day, when the cultural wars are done and the human soul is freed, I'll be able to say with full conviction, "This is a great Day to live."

SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS is a great place to step out into a new way of life, with a fascinating literary hero.

As is obvious from my discussion topic (in the Amazon Shorts forum) toasting John Cassell's HELL'S QUEST: 1971, I've been reading this author's collection of novels for the past few months, following a surge in literary exploration which has caused that forum to evolve into a commentary on each of those novels, as well as into a seminar on novelists talking about their work and writing techniques, including how ghosts, poltergeists, and possession of an author by a quickened character are related concepts.

For the past several years I've been reading mostly mystery novel series as I enjoy the literary depth and continuity there. I escape into novels so thoroughly that I go through a minor grieving process when I finish a good one. Being able to follow a character through several books is a boon to that type of psyche, and to an author like me who also writes books in series.

Prior to becoming addicted to the unique voice of Cassell, I had made a study of Robert B. Parker's Spenser series, reviewing each novel in that series, then moving into his two other mystery series. Through Spenser I enjoyed comparing the 70's to present day, and following various details of the evolution of cultural change beginning in the 70's then pushing heatedly through the 80's, 90's, and 00's.

That craving led naturally, almost uncannily into Cassel's novels, which focus on the 1967-1973 seeding pivotal point of the huge number of philosophical, psychological, sociological changes which we're still sorting through today.

My problem with some of The Literary Classics has always been that reading them depressed me. I was usually left at the end of a read feeling that the best next course of action would be to leap off a cliff. I was always disgusted that such amazing literary skill, such exquisite syntax, such blood-rich character development, such balsamic plot complexity was used to elevate either the artistry of ennui or of horrifying tragedy... concluding with, "Is that all there is?" or "Life is NOT a bowl full of cherries; it is The Pits of Terror and Torture." The GREAT GATSBY was one such. The wordsmithing and storytelling ability in that novel are almost insurpassable. Yet, I feel nothing but an empty, horrible depression when I get into that book or movie. Even so, Gatsby is one of my favorite examples of a truly good novel.

Too many of the Classics, for me, are the perfect promotions for Prozac. Given a choice, I'd rather read Parker or Cassell and keep my natural chemistry intact.

What I like about that pair is that both authors provide engrossing entertainment, then leave me as a reader with a feeling of being well grounded into reality, including the dark sides, yet ready to work even harder to get what I want out of life and to spark others to do the same with their lives, through my writing.

When I read I seek a spirit lift. I get enough daily drains on my life force from reality. I can't see welcoming them into my mind when I'm wanting the regenerating factor of an escape into an enthralling world created in my mind by another healthy mind.

Somewhat in contrast to all the above, I've been thoroughly drawn into the benefits of the Amazon Shorts program as a way to develop my readership, and to find additional authors I might want to explore. Through reading the short stories and nonfiction essays in the Shorts program, I've discovered that I can sometimes enjoy a "short" break from my usual diet of novels and series. The authors in the Amazon Shorts program are indeed impressive. If not for Amazon Shorts, I might not have discovered the author who has become my favorite, rivaling Ayn Rand's ATLAS SHRUGGED.

Who is John W. Cassell?

I hope to find other authors whose books possess anywhere near that level of ability to enhance the soul. It'll be a while yet, before I've come to the conclusion of indulging this wallow into the works of a great author stepping out.

I'm honored to say that my blurb has been included in this novel's publication, in good company with other authors raving SOLDIER OF AQUARIUS.

Soon, I hope to be able to compose and post separate reviews on each of Cassell's novels available here on Amazon. Until then, I'll post this overview to stand in admiration of literature worth reading and rereading.

Linda Shelnutt

Morning Comes: the Pre Dawn Blues - Part 1
I'm rereading my own novel available in a 10 part series of Amazon Shorts, MORNING COMES, which holds uncanny thematic parallels to some of John's books, especially AN AQUARIAN TRAGEDY, which I'm now reading, having now read all of the current Cassell collection.

So much reading material bores kids... but NOT THIS. I even enjoyed reading some of it myself as well as my daughter. I recommend this book!

These books are exciting with very good Christian values brought to the attention of the reader. Great Adventure Books.

Combine the Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew with Indian Jones, make them Christians in search of Biblical artifacts, and you'll get the gist of these novels. They are nothing more or less than what they claim to be: enteraining reads for young readers, intertwining spiritual lessons with fast-paced action. Adults may be bored by the simplicity or stretched realism of these stories, but pre-teen and early teens will enjoy these works as much as older readers enjoy Peretti's The Oath or This Present Darkness.

This edition matches the ISBN and photo for CBD's slipcase set, which features books #1-4 in the set of 8: Door in the Dragon's Throat, Escape From the Island of Aquarius, The Tombs of Anak, and Trapped At The Bottom Of The Sea. This set includes the collector's box and four (newer release/cover design) paperbacks. As far as I know, books #5-8 are unavailable in a boxed set (the newer paperbacks), but they are available separately.

I bought this book so my 7 year old son could start recreational reading on his own, however much of the vocabulary in it is beyond him at this point, so I started reading it out loud to him, explaining some of the words as we go. The story is very suspenseful, and he loves it! He is hooked on the story line, no surprise with Peretti's writing. I am hoping as the school year continues, he'll be reading the rest of the stories on his own. I think it's a great series for young readers, and the Christian slant in it is very strong and confirms our own personal faith.

A thoughtful summary of how a family member with a debilitating illness can change the lives of the whole family, and community as well. Invaluable insights for family and friends; how to deal with a disease that can be all consuming, how to find support and peace for the primary caregiver, and how to negotiate some of the legal and financial pit falls. A real eye opener!

Alzheimer's disease is a terrible disease that robs the essence of a person, and leaves families in turmoil. In the book, SHE NEVER SAID GOODBYE, Vern Ellison tells his story. The story is about his love for his wife Sara and his family, and the tradedy of watching Sara fall into the Alzheimer's abyss, knowing there would be no return.

To be diagnosed with Alzheimer's at any age is tragic, with most of the burden resting on elderly spouses or children who care. But early-onset Alzheimer's is even more cruel, robbing the victim of prodtive twilight years when they should be watching their children marry and blossom and enjoying their grandchildren.

This book brings a story together of love, life and what is ahead for millions, if there is no cure or prevention for Alzheimer's disease.

A necessary read for everyone, particularly those in their 50's.

A 'must-read' for anyone caring for a loved one with AD As many books as I have read about this devastating disease, I must say this one rates among the very best. It takes you through the complete journey and gives the reader every opportunity to anticipate the inevitable, yet throws educating surprises along the way. It is not a mystery, but a true account of one very devoted man's caregiving journey. I highly recommend She Never Said Goodbye and extend my heartfelt "thanks" to George Ellison for writing it.

If you are a "baby boomer" I would suggest you read this book. If there is not a cure or prevention for Alzheimer's disease, you will lead the way to the anticipated 14 million Alzhiemer's victims by 2050.

A love story from birth until the final end; six decades, a man, wife and children experince what life is all about. It is not a happy story, but one should not rule it out for themselves. Millions are to experience it.

A lot of good advice and information.

Read it.

Non-fiction book with the personal stories of sons and daughters of lesbian mothers. I liked it a lot, it's a positive book for anyone who has a gay or lesbian family or anyone who is interested in the topic.

An absorbing compilation of stories of the lives of sons and daughters of lesbian mothers. The diverse group of authors range in age from seven years to middle aged and they all provide a wonderful record of how they feel about having "different" mothers

My daughter read this book when she was in high school. She was so excited to find out that so many kids had experiences and feelings like hers! She has had all her closest friends read the book so they would understand her and her life better. There are essays in here that are suitable for nearly any age child.