Selling My Books on the Streets fo Brooklyn 2/11 - Potpourri

Last night this-TV (111 on Cablevision) ran Game of Death (1978), starring Bruce Lee, who died in 1973. According to IMDb, the film was crafted using old, unused footage and a look-alike. It’s by no means good but it's noteworthy for its odd cast. Playing a reporter, it was Gig Young’s last appearance. He committed suicide that year at 64, although not likely because of despair in having acted in such a flick. Hollywood veteran Dean Jagger played the crime boss, and he had six more credits after that and died at a ripe old age in 1991. TV’s Wyatt Earp, Hugh O’Brian, was the second villainous banana. The flick’s most memorable scene is a fight between Lee and basketball legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar, all seven feet of him! Chuck Norris also had a brief role that IMDb lists as "fighter." It is rated 5.7 out of ten. It's strictly for fans of chop-socky and those of us smitten with a lust for movie trivia.

I cruised to the Grammy’s three times last night, hoping to catch a live performance, even though I'm unfamiliar with 99% of the nominated songs. I caught only commercials. At the same time NBC, probably raising a flag of surrender to CBS, ran a sort of documentary on the Saturday Night Live of the ‘80’s, post the original crew and creator Lorne Michaels, who has long since returned. It was actually interesting. The show was on life support until Eddie Murphy was brought to the forefront. Joe Piscopo provided a significant assist. I’d completely forgotten a lot of the players, i.e. Gary Kroeger and Robert Downey Jr.. I have no idea what the quality of the show is these days. I haven’t watched it in years. It’s certainly had many great moments in its long history, including the appearance of music artists. Last night’s show aired 30 second clips of performances by the likes of Bruce Hornsby, Tom Petty, and the Cowboy Junkies.

I’ve finally heard a decent counter argument against the use of drones, offered in a letter to the editor in today’s NY Post. Although the scenario is very unlikely, the writer wonders what the reaction would be if Russia were to execute a strike in America to kill, say a Chechen, terrorist it considered a danger to its country. Nice reasoning, but it still doesn’t change my opinion. I accept that we are at war. Many people do not.

I used this rainy day to do the annual maddening task of tax filing. Despite the advantages of doing it online, and the fact that my return is fairly simply, it is an exasperating process, and I'm relieved it's done. I lose about nine bucks on the ordeal, the fee minus the return on my state and city taxes. I get zero from the feds, as expected. I wonder if I would have gotten more had I not reported my street income. I do it not out of good citizenship but because I don't want to tangle with the IRS mafia, although the odds are miniscule that such paltry earnings would ever be audited.
Visit Vic's sites:
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Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/16 - GDocs

I spent some time this morning trying to figure out how to move a manuscript file into Google Docs, which automatically converts it to Word, which my system doesn't have. My PC has Microsoft Works word processor. Another advantage of using GDocs is that files can be emailed directly from it. I experimented with Rising Star, a rock n roll epic that is almost 200,000 words. I seemed to get the pasting right, but the novel appeared on the page for only an instant and then disappeared as the program first indicated that it was saving and then that it was trying to contact google.com -- who knows why. It should not be this hard. There are two ways the program will accept a paste: using Ctrl + V or using the clipboard icon. I don't know why it won't let it happen with a right click on a mouse. Weird. I'll try it later with my latest short story, Bad Form, a tiny file.

The Giants have started the season with their usual tricks, demonstrating mediocrity. Then again, the NFL has become largely unpredictable. How many handicappers had the Patriots in a rout over the Cardinals today? I did. It was a game I was happy to lose, though. Any Belichick loss is fun. Also on the topic of football: the NY Post's expert on the college game, Lenn Robbins, predicted that Virginia Tech would win the national championship. After two lackluster wins to start the season, the Hokies lost Saturday to Pitt, which had looked putrid in its first two games. This may have been the worse call in the history of sports reporting. I assume it was merely a hunch. VT has been a solid program in the Frank Beamer era, but has always fallen short of grand expectations.

For the second Sunday in a row I set up shop on Bay Parkway & 86th Street with only my books, and had no sales. I did have two inquiries instead of one. What's two times zero?

Shana Tova to Jews everywhere. Long live Israel.

Visit Vic’s sites:
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Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/15 - Books

There was a fun item on Page Six of today's New York Post. Monica Lewinsky is back to entertain us, shopping a book to publishers. Web jokers immediately began tweeting title suggestions. Here are the ones listed in the piece: How the Government Brought Me to My Knees, The Monica Lewinsky Story; Fifty Shades of Blue Dress; Catch ’er in the Eye; Salty Tales From the Oval Office; Crouching Intern, Hidden Cigar. There are a lot of clever, creative people out there.

This morning I was notified by Twitter that I was being followed by Wheelman Press. I sent a thank you, returned the follow, and clicked on the link to its website. If there is a fee involved in being published there, it was well-disguised. I sent a query about the next novel I hope to have published, Exchanges, which was influenced by my near 25 year run at the madhouse that was Comex/Nymex. I've already received a response asking to see the manuscript, which I just submitted. Of course, now I have in mind the old adage: "If something seems to good to be true, it probably is." Then again, what do I have to lose? The only thing that can be stolen is the file. It would be hell seeing the novel published in someone else's name, but there's that other old adage: "No risk, no reward."

The floating book shop's luck continued today. My thanks to regular customers Jack, Maryann, Munsey, and everyone else who bought.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/14 - Creative

I’ve read or seen about two-thirds of Shakespeare’s plays. Hamlet remains my favorite. I've seen at least four versions. It’s language and psychological insight are remarkable. One of the Bard’s plays I was completely unfamiliar with was Coriolanus. Last night I watched a film adaptation (2011) produced, directed and starring Ralph Fiennes, courtesy of Netflix. I really enjoyed it, despite the fact that I was unable to figure out how to get the close captioning to work. I was unable to distinguish some of the dialogue, as my hearing is not as good as it used to be. Regardless, the lead character, based on an actual Roman warrior, is so interesting. Arrogant and prideful, he alienates the fickle citizenry he despises, despite his heroics in defense of his country. The production was updated to modern times. This is the first time this tack has worked for me. I did not enjoy either Ethan Hawke’s Hamlet (2000) or Ian McKellen’s Richard III (1995). They came off as gimmicks, not so Coriolanus. Although the events are set in a city called Rome, they mimic the carnage that went on in the Balkans. It has the elements of an action film, but rises above the genre because of the depth of the characterizations. Fiennes is excellent, although he overdoes it at times, foaming at the mouth ala Al Pacino in And Justice for All (1979). Vanessa Redgrave matches him as his proud mother. The ubiquitous Brian Cox, eight film appearances in 2011, lends his considerable talent to the production, as do the prolific Jessica Chastain, six films in 2011, and Gerard Butler (300 {2006}). John Logan is to be commended for the adaptation to the screen. On a scale of five, four. It is rated 6.3 at IMDB.

There’s an amusing new issue in the legal field. The owners of strip club Nite Moves, who owe $400,000 in back taxes, are claiming lap dances are an art form that should be exempt from taxation. There has to be a punchline there.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, who have suffered 19 consecutive losing seasons, are now only two games above .500. C’mon, guys.  

It was another good day for the floating book shop. Maybe it's the weather, which has been as good as it gets for a week. Mrs. Eclectic bought another twelve books. She is about 35, I'd say, so she was unfamiliar with Sidney Sheldon's If Tomorrow Comes and Judith Krantz's Scruples, two blockbusters I urged her to select. I also sold six books in Russian, two of which had been donated by Michael minutes before. But the best part of the day came from Sheila, who recently read A Hitch in Twilight, which she said was "very creative." She particularly liked Nowak's Dreams, which covers past lives. Thank you, madam, and to all who bought and donated.
Visit Vic’s sites:
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Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/13 - Outrageous

RIP U.S. Ambassador to Libya Christopher Stevens and the three other Americans slain by radical Islamists, and condolences to their families. If anyone needed to be reminded that the war on terror is ongoing, there’s the proof. No amount of apologizing will appease the monsters who perpetrated the attack. They would find any excuse, however flimsy, to perpetrate their evil. Scapegoating the makers of an unctuous film is ludicrous. The goal of jihadists is to kill all those they believe to be infidels, including Muslims who do not conform to specific doctrines. They should be hunted down and brought to justice, killed during capture or executed after trial.

Now for something infinitely more pleasant. I’ve had the good fortune to view two PBS musical specials this week, one on videotape, the other on Long Island’s Channel 21. There was nothing interesting to watch on broadcast TV two nights ago, so I popped Oklahoma, which I’d recorded several years ago, into the VCR. I was curious about its enduring popularity. I was won over immediately. The music of Richard Rodgers is beautiful and rousing and the lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein are wonderful and insightful. Hugh Jackman, who I’d known only as Wolverine in the X-Men films, was the star. When I'd first heard this I was skeptical. I remember thinking: “Okay, pretty boy, let’s see what you can do.” My jaw dropped as he sang Oh, What a Beautiful Morning. This guy is a major talent, not just the centerpiece of simplistic Hollywood blockbusters. Here’s the clip, courtesy of you tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZbAKYQkP_Q

The other show was Judy Collins Live at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Now into her 70’s and completely gray, her voice seems to have lost nothing. She did Joni Mitchell’s Both Sides Now and Joan Baez’s Diamonds and Rust and, of course, Steven Sondheim’s Send in the Clowns, on which she captures the wistful longing of the subconscious better than anyone, including Sinatra. It was as if the song were written specifically for her. It has always made me misty. Unfortunately, I was unable to find any clips from that performance on the web. If the program is listed in the TV schedule, check it out. The liberal philosophy of some songs aside, it’s great. Tape it to avoid pledge breaks.

It looked like it was going to be a disappointing session at the floating book shop, then buyers swooped in the last hour. Thanks, folks, and also to Simon, who donated about 20 hardcover best sellers.
Visit Vic’s sites:
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Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/12 - Hug & Kiss

Cleo Virginia Andrews, pen name V.C. Andrews, conquered ill health to become a best selling author. She never fully recovered from a fall down a flight of stairs in high school. She spent the rest of her life using crutches or a wheelchair. She succumbed to breast cancer at 63 in 1986 at the height of her literary career. Since then, Andrew Neiderman has been writing under her name. At first he worked from her outlines and unfinished manuscripts. He is now on his own. For some reason, I thought Andrews wrote about the supernatural. This was not the case, at least not in the novel I just finished, Dark Angel, the second in the Casteel series, her final completed book. It was a refreshing change of pace from the mysteries I’ve been sampling. The characters are real and fleshed out. The prose is fine, old-fashioned to a degree, in a good way. It is basically a rags to riches story with a complex heroine driving the action, making many mistakes despite good intentions. The only aspect that bothered me was an overuse of the exclamation point, which always brings to mind the Seinfeld argument about punctuation that ended Elaine’s relationship with author Jake Jarmel, and which brilliantly encapsulates the insanity of modern relationships. Andrews' most popular work is Flowers in the Attic, which was adapted to a film starring Louise Fletcher in 1987, a year after Andrews' death. It is rated 5.1 at IMDb. On a scale of five, I rate Dark Angel two-and-a-half. (Facts culled from Wiki.)

Although I chose not to blog yesterday, the anniversary of 9/11, I did set up the floating book shop. I hadn’t seen the elderly Russian couple that always holds hand for a while. I assumed they'd gone on a long visit to their homeland. Even better, they spent two months in Monticello. The woman was so happy to see me she planted a kiss on my cheek. It made my day. Later on, I helped Grandma sort through the stack of Russian romance novels I had on display. She’s having trouble with her eyes and prefers large print. Fortunately, we found a couple that suited her. She was thrilled when I offered her another, from which the first few pages were missing, gone with the wind in Park Slope the day before. If Webster wanted to put an illustrative picture of a grandmother in his dictionary, she would fit the bill. I also got a hug from Big Al, local poet, who I hadn’t seen in weeks. He’s getting antsy, as his self-published volume of "love-ku" poetry is delayed. AuthorHouse, which originally said the book would be ready in September, is now saying before Christmas. I'd be going nuts.

As for today, it was another good session, as I sold about ten books, traded a few, and received a couple of donations, including a slew of V.C. Andrews' other books. The best part of the day was hearing that Morty, a retired salesman who recently underwent radiation treatments, has gained weight. Six-feet tall, he is up to 142. His doctor told him that if he hit 135 he would have to go into the hospital. He had fallen to 137. He's been "eating like an animal." He was his old, upbeat self again.
Visit Vic’s sites:
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Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/10 - Perplexed

My vivid Monday morning dreams are becoming routine. This time I was on a beach, giving away books, as I didn’t have long to live. My heart had been weakened by cancer treatment. The handicapped woman I frequently accompany to the doctor was sad. This part of the dream is not hard to analyze: the struggle to sell his work weakens the artist. I worry about brain cancer, and run a hand across my head every once in a while, checking for tumors, I guess. The dream then took an odd segue. I saw an application my niece Tanya filled out to play soccer for Bishop Kearney High School, from which she graduated in the ‘70’s. She never played sports. I have no idea what that aspect means. And why don’t I remember the dreams I have on other days? Weird.

2016: Obama’s America remained among the top ten films at the box office, but appears finally to be losing steam. It has now earned a little more than 26 million. The book on which it is based, by Dinesh D’Souza, is ranked 29th at Amazon. Conservative radio host Mike Gallagher’s 50 Things Liberals Love to Hate is ranked 1038th. Does this say anything about the mood of the electorate? Doubt it. I haven't seen the film or read either book, although I'm sure I agree with most of what's said in them. As far as I'm concerned, the election is about policy and it is not difficult to find where the candidates stand. I haven't seen any of Michael Moore's films, either, and it would be a cold day in hell before I put money in his pocket..

When Cuz did not contact me about golf, I decided to take the floating book shop to the hipster haven of Park Slope, supposedly the most literate neighborhood in Brooklyn. Although I did some business, I was frustrated by the number of people who took a hard look and walked away without purchasing anything. Several took a close look at my books. A few said they were broke, which is understandable these days. I thank those who did buy, and the ladies of the nearby hospital office, who donated nine popular hard covers (Hamill, Patterson, Cook, Baldacci) in excellent condition.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/9 - Fritz

Last night I watched legendary director Fritz Lang’s last film before he fled Nazi Germany, The Testament of Dr. Mabuse (1933), courtesy of Netflix. Lang did a lot of good work in America, although he complained of the lack of artistic freedom in the old studio system, but his most famous films were done in his homeland: Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler (1922), Metropolis (1927) and M (1931). The first two are silents and, yahoo that I am, I just can’t sit through movies that don’t have sound and dialogue. M, starring Peter Lorre at his creepy best as a child murderer, is riveting. The second Mabuse was one of the first films to tell a non-linear story, so common today. The first five minutes are fantastic, incredibly tense, driven by an unidentified industrial racket in the background. I enjoyed the rest, despite its flaws, but it doesn’t compare to M. The early talkies feature actors who often employ the exaggerated techniques of the silent era. It’s hard not to laugh at it. Also, the plot is shaky. There has been debate on whether the Mabuse of this version was patterned after Hitler. Actually, the main character is a professor who has bought into Mabuse’s dream of a chaos that would see the criminal class rule the world. Mabuse himself is in an asylum, filling pages of notebooks with his ideas, which miscreants acquire and put to use. The film was banned by the Nazis and was not shown in Germany until 1951. I’m not sure what to think of it in that respect, and I’m not sure it matters. Lang was famous for lying and exaggerating in interviews, so even his word on the subject could not be taken as definitive. One aspect of the film is hilarious. During the high speed chase at the end, Der Kommissar’s car gets a flat. The flat is fixed and the pursuit is resumed. Although the authorities know the villain is on his way to the sanitarium where he works, the segue is bizarre, one of the oddest scenes I’ve ever encountered. The restorers did a great job in all aspects save one. The subtitles are white, which get lost in black and white films. Unless one speaks German, there is a lot of reading involved. The film is rated 7.9 out of ten at IMDb. I rate it 3.5 of five.   

I didn't spot any storm damage during my morning walk or later while driving. It seems our end of Brooklyn was spared. I didn't even hear a thunderclap last night. I wonder what brought down the tree on the next block. It has already been removed. Only the root remains. The sidewalk has a three foot slope on either side of it.

The new Sunday strategy of taking just my own books to the busy intersection of Bay Parkway and 86th Street failed to generate much interest. Only one young man inquired and then balked at the ten dollar asking price. Two weeks ago the cover of a copy of Adjustments developed striations when it got wet during a sudden downpour. I offered it to actor/singer extraordinaire Johnny Feets for two bucks, and he jumped at it, as I presumed he would. Thanks, my friend.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/8 - Ship

In a classic episode of The Honeymooners, Ralph brings home a suitcase he found abandoned on his bus. To his astonishment, it is filled with money -- "hummina, hummina." He immediately thinks he has struck it rich. Alice, ever level-headed, tries to talk him down, which frustrates him. He bellows something like: "For years you've been sayin': 'When is my ship comin' in, when is my ship comin'?' Well, here it is, the Queen Mary." I sort of asked myself that this past week, as the rain and paltry street sales combined to disappoint me. Well, the ship came in last night. Maybe it was just a dinghy, not an ocean liner, by real world standards, but it was big in a struggling artist's life. A week ago I mailed a copy of Adjustments to Marilena, Lafayette High School class of 1977, who I met on Facebook. A decade earlier, her dad was one of my teachers. Well, she ordered four more copies for friends. I gave them to her last night at L&B Spumoni Gardens, where she was among a gathering of friends and relatives. And she wouldn't accept the 20% discount I offered, which goes a long way toward helping me recoup the money I invested in 200 copies, and possibly turning a profit, which means a lot to a Sicilian. I have 79 copies left, so whether the novel will be profitable or not is still a long way from being decided.  Most of those copies will go for ten dollars. Par was originally twelve. It is less than ten now due to the generosity of the public, but the remainder still has to be sold. Special thanks, Marilena.

As I was driving to my sister's this morning at 9:30, it started to pour. I assumed the severe storm that had been predicted had arrived early and that the floating book shop would not open. To my surprise, the sun was out an hour and a half later. I set up shop at Bay Parkway and 85th, hoping the weather would hold for a couple of hours. It did. The strong wind even negated the humidity to a large degree. I thank Jack and Bad News Billy, two of my most faithful customers, and a Russian gentleman, who relieved me of a lot of book weight for the long trek back to the car. As I returned to Sheepshead Bay, there were a lot of open parking spots beneath trees. I resisted the temptation and settled for one out of danger on East 13th between Avenue Y & X. As I approached the building, I noticed flashing lights between Avenue Z & Shore Parkway, where a tree had toppled just yards from where I set up shop most days. Right now it's eerily dark and there is a tornado watch in effect for the entire metropolitan area, including NYC, a rare occurrence and more ammunition for climate change alarmists.

My oldest niece, Isabel, was in the basement this morning when I went down to do my laundry. She'd recently downloaded and read my screenplay, All Hallows. She had fun imagining actors filling the roles. I'd had Tom Selleck in mind as the Sheriff when I wrote it in the early '90's. Although he still looks great, he would probably be more suited to the role of the retired Sheriff these days. Tempus fugit. Thanks, Is.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/7 - Pizza

Last night I watched another of the music videotapes I made, this one circa 1997. It was even more eclectic than usual. There were tracks by mainstream artist such as The Boss, Billy Joel, Bonnie Raitt (with Ruth Brown) and Metallica, but the rest was from the fringes or breakout acts. Roland Olazabal, after his split from Tears for Fears, did a wonderful vocal on the unusual Raul and the Kings of Spain, which I culled from a PBS show I do not recall the title of -- Ra-ool! There was also a two-song segue into the Afro-Cuban Jovenes Del Barrio, featuring a vocalist named Gillian, who looked Irish but whose Spanish sounded flawless. I’m not crazy about that sound, which substitutes violin and flute for brass. It doesn’t go deep enough for my ear, if that makes any sense. Legendary Jazz saxophonist Joe Henderson did George and Ira Gershwin’s I Love You Porgy, accompanied by an acoustic guitarist. Again, to my ear, the pairing did not fit. The tape picked up steam with bluesman Coco Montoya, a heavyset left-handed guitarist howlin‘ out Dyin‘ Flu, and playing beautifully. Jane’s Addiction did the infectious Jane Says on SNL. Either Perry Farrell was not in top voice or the music simply overpowered him. His hair was styled in silly, colorful spikes. The last hour of the tape was strong, starting with three numbers from Yanni. I remember how I scoffed when I landed on the PBS airing of the concert at the Taj Mahal. I expected New Age drivel. I was blown away. I was especially taken by the joy of performing demonstrated by the orchestra and singers, particularly on the rousing Love Is All. For years I’d heard Leo Kottke’s name in advertisements on local radio for NYC performances at venues such as the Bottom Line. The producers of PBS’ Sessions at West 54th Street had the good sense to feature him. The guy is so talented at times it seemed two guitars were playing. He plays an acoustic with the ease of the masters of electric. The tape concluded with two breakout artists: bluesman Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Chumbawumba. The Shepherd track was routine, though his talent is obvious. Chumbawumba burst onto the music scene with the rollicking Tubthumping, irresistible despite being an ode to questionable behavior. It has two great lyrical hooks: “I get knocked down, but I get up again” and “Pissing the night away.” As for a highlight, I’ll go with Mr. Kottke playing Deep River Blues: “My ol’ gal is a good ol’ gal, but she looks like a water fowl.” Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKb-FBsGLH4

Suddenly, selling books on the street has become very tough, and it's not for lack of beautiful wares. I thank the young woman who purchased a children's book, and Eugene and the Russian gentleman for the donations. I'm so over-stocked I had to turn down Abdul the Friendly Porter's offer. I hope the weight isn't damaging my car.

I'm off to the Spumoni Gardens, hoping to meet a Facebook friend and sell copies of my own books. It seems too good, too easy to be true. What's the worst that can happen? I'll have a couple of their famous squares while I'm there. Friday is pizza night, anyway.

Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/6 - True Colors

I don't watch the political conventions, which amount to little more than silly cheer leading. I know where the parties stand on issues. The conventions are a waste of time and money, which is what politicians do best. I scan the morning paper to see if anything interesting occurred and listen to a few minutes of conservative radio host Mike Gallagher. I didn't see Clint Eastwood's appearance at the RNC, but read and heard clips of it the next day. Whatever anyone thought of the speech, it was the highlight of the show, although it probably didn't sway independent voters. Yesterday it was the Democrats turn to provide unusual entertainment. In their platform, they left out any mention of God, and of Jerusalem being the capital of Israel. Dumb move. 89% of Americans believe in God. A significant majority support Israel. Party leadership decided to do a do-over and took a group voice vote on whether to restore those planks to the platform. Apparently, it had no clue as to the embarrassment that lay in store. The vote was taken three times and at best the delegates were evenly divided. Nevertheless, the resolutions were passed. Loud booing ensued. And today spokespersons tried desperately to spin the incident in a positive light. Paul Begala, party loyalist, wasn't buying it, calling it "an unforced error." I'm not sure this will be damaging to the President. The platform was changed. Jews will continue to vote in an overwhelming majority for Democrats. The general public will continue to view politicians as a necessary evil. It's always interesting when the true colors of the elites show, in this case the hardcore left. It's similar to viewing a Martin Scorsese film -- one doesn't know whether to laugh or tear one's hair out in despair. The corruption rife in New York is another example. No one expects anything less. Yet it apparently is what the electorate wants, as it keeps returning the same people to office. I will vote, but I'll do it with the lowest of expectations.

After a four day hiatus, the floating book shop will re-open tomorrow -- unless the front backs up.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3
  

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/5 - Timing

My literary angel, Victoria/January Valentine, has published a second novel, Sweet Dreams, In the Mind of a Serial Killer, hot on the heels of her fiery romance, Love Dreams, which is doing well at Amazon. Here's a synopsis of the former: "A serial killer is on the loose, moving up the East Coast, leaving bodies & notes . . . Planting roses in his victims. Leonardo Gibraldi, Baltimore’s sexy Assistant DA, is tracking the fiend who’s responsible for the grisly murder of his ex-girlfriend. Leo’s out for revenge — so is the killer. Between hunting the madman, and fighting off beautiful women, Leo’s got his hands full. There's one break in the case: An eye witness who says, “It doesn’t look human.”
Can't go wrong with goombah hero. Best of luck, V.

http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Dreams-Mind-Serial-Killer/dp/0984957359/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1346878916&sr=1-4&keywords=january+valentine

The rain held off all morning, then started about noon, about an hour after I'd set up shop. I'd hauled out one less crate, so it wasn't hard to get all the books to safety. I then took just a copy each of Killing, Adjustments and A Hitch in Twilight to the rear of the Sheepshead Bay train station. I was testing the waters, as I was chased from there more than a year ago by a police officer. I hoped I'd get away with it if it looked like promotion instead of commerce. It was a lonely vigil. Only one person inquired. I was pretty bummed out, especially since I may not be doing any book selling tomorrow, as a friend needs someone to accompany her to the doctor mid day. Then I found great news on Facebook. Marilena, whose dad was one of my teachers in the ninth grade at Lafayette H.S., has been reading Adjustments. She wants two copies for friends, one of whom is a coach. I will be meeting her at the Spumoni Gardens Friday evening. Every so often the artist's life needs a shot in the arm. The timing was perfect.

Are you ready for some football? Go Giants!
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/4 - #s

The remnants of Isaac are upon the Northeast and likely to linger through Thursday. I have the rainy day blues. Here are some numbers that will surely make some people blue. First on the political front, a recent poll showed that blacks prefer Obama to Romney 94% to 0%, with the rest undecided. Given that unemployment has risen among blacks during the President’s term, pundits are scratching their heads at the statistic. Currently, joblessness among blacks is 15.3%, as opposed to 8.3% overall. I am not surprised by the approval rating. It is cultural. If Obama were white, he wouldn’t stand a chance in November, whether one attributes the economic woes to him or not. Elections have always followed the bottom line.

Here are the latest box office numbers for the anti-Obama film, 2016: 18.3 million, robust for a documentary. To give it perspective, Michael Moore’s anti-Bush Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004) earned more than 224 million worldwide. His second best money-maker, Bowling for Columbine (2002), made 58 million. I doubt the rest of the planet will be as interested in a film with a conservative bias. Still, 2016 continues to build an audience here in the America, finally forcing the left to respond. Is it merely preaching to the choir or will it convince independents to vote Republican? Stay tuned.

Turning to sports, Tiger Woods has become the first pro golfer to surpass 100 million in earnings. This must really rankle his detractors, including my golfing partner of 25 years, Cuz, who is the most even-tempered person I’ve ever known in just about all things excluding Tiger. He will not use a Nike golf ball because it is endorsed by Woods.

And on the baseball front: Pirates fans must be going to the Pepto Bismol. The Bucs have not had a winning record since 1992. Just a month ago they seemed a lock not only to break the streak but to make the playoffs. They have lost ten of their last 13 games, four straight, and stand at six games over .500.  If they flop, they will not face the heat that will be leveled at the Nationals if their pitching falls short in the post season. Washington will soon shut down phenom Stephen Strasburg, who is 15-6, 2.94 ERA, and leads the NL is strikeouts. Strasburg, who is coming off major surgery to his valuable pitching arm, has been limited by the organization brain trust to about 170 innings. He is up to 156. The team has a shot to win it all and that figures to be more difficult without its star. From an economic standpoint, the move is understandable, as millions have been invested in the young man, but the team may never have a better opportunity to win a championship than at present, although it seems certain to contend for the next few years. This is another issue that gets Cuz’s goat. He is not big on pitch counts.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/3 - 86

I had another vivid dream last night. They seem to occur mostly Monday mornings. In this one, several people who used to work at the commodity exchange were living in the same house. I was invited to move in, but declined when I saw a certain someone was an occupant. I suppose I didn’t want to go back to eating my heart out. The only other person who wasn’t vague was Mary Ellen, a long time clerk, who was the spokesperson for the property. I have no idea why she was in it. I hardly ever spoke to her. The dream reminded me of another unrequited love, Peggy, who I was crazy about for a decade and who preceded my time at the Exchange. One of her fantasies was that every significant person of her life would live in the same apartment building. The mind never ceases to fascinate.

I had planned to take the floating bookshop to the hipster haven of Park Slope today, but the forecast scared me off. I did what I used to do before people started donating books to me. I went to the busy intersection of Bay Parkway and 86th Street with just my own books. If it started raining, all I had to do was take shelter under the train station. Hundreds passed but not one person was impressed enough to question me. Fortunately, several people I've befriended stopped and wished me well. The opposite side of Bay Parkway, where Vinnie the Retard used to strum his two-string guitar, seemed eerily clear. A Citibank has replaced the fruit market whose stands filled most of the sidewalk.

The day wasn't a total loss, as I finally got around to shopping for shorts, which were on sale at Modells. I bought two pair for $18 and, to my surprise, was not taxed. One pair falls below the knees. I hate that! And neither has a back pocket. I'd been hoping to score pairs on sale on the net, but was unable to get free shipping on any potential order. While in the store, I ran into an old high school teammate, Gus, who just became a grandfather for the third time. I believe we're the last two in Brooklyn. Everyone else has dispersed. Stuie keeps posting pictures of the Hudson from his boat on Facebook. Joey P. just turned 63 in his adopted home, California. Life rolls on.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/2 - Brooklynites

RIP lyricist Hal David, 91, a Brooklyn guy. He had an incredible career, working with many composers, chiefly Burt Bacharach. Here is a song list of his work just with the latter. Most were recorded by Dionne Warwick in the ‘60’s & ‘70’s. In fact, some of them were hits for more than one artist.
"Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head"
"This Guy's in Love with You"
"I'll Never Fall in Love Again"
"Do You Know the Way to San Jose"
"Don't Make Me Over"
"(They Long to Be) Close to You"
"Walk On By"
"What the World Needs Now Is Love"
"I Say a Little Prayer"
"The Story of My Life"
"Magic Moments"
"(There's) Always Something There to Remind Me"
"One Less Bell to Answer"
"Anyone Who Had a Heart"
"What's New Pussycat?"
"Alfie"
Great work, sir. Thank you.

As big a fan of movies as I am, I somehow had never gotten around to watching I Want to Live (1958), which features the performance that won an Oscar, on her fifth nomination, for Susan Hayward. It ran last night on PBS in NYC. Born Edythe Marrener in Flatbush, she was one of Hollywood’s great beauties and had the talent to match. Curiously, she is not mentioned among the all-time greats. I Want to Live is a portrait of a lost soul, a girl from the wrong side of the tracks found guilty of the murder of a 61 year old woman. Directed by Robert Wise (West Side Story {1961}), the film is uncompromising in its portrayal of this “tough cookie,” as one officer describes her. The screenplay suggests the murder was perpetrated by her or one of her three male accomplices, although evidence was overwhelming. Reporter Gene Blake called the film "... propaganda for the abolition of the death penalty." Shot in glorious black and white, it reminds me in style of The Man with the Golden Arm (1955), Anatomy of a Murder (1959) and The Sweet Smell of Success (1957). All had a jazz feel to them, in an era when Hollywood wasn‘t afraid to make serious films. The last 20 minutes of I Want to Live, leading up to the execution, is riveting. The cast is rife with stalwarts familiar to movie and TV buffs: Simon Oakland, Theodore Bikel, Joe DeSantis, Stafford Repp, Peter Breck, Jack Weston, John Marley. Tragically, Hayward died at 57 from cancer. She chain-smoked throughout I Want to Live. I rate the film four stars out of five. It is rated 7.5 at IMDb. Facts also culled from Wiki.

My thanks to Bad News Billy, who bought books for the second day in a row, despite being in arrears to his landlord. Brooklynites are a unique lot.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 9/1 - Friends

I didn't have any luck selling books last evening at the Santa Rosalia Feast on 18th Avenue, the setting for my novel, Killing. I had only one serious inquiry, from a young man, and I sense I didn't sell the book intelligently. For whatever reason, I wasn't in a positive frame of mind. Perhaps it showed. A lot of people stared my way, but that doesn't do any good unless a person has a photographic memory. The most disappointing aspect of the night was being ignored by a Facebook "friend," who was with a large group, some of whom I recognized from the pictures she posts. She attended Lafayette H.S. in the mid to late 70's, when I was an assistant football coach. I know she saw me, as she quickly averted her gaze when she spotted me. I won't speculate as to why. She passed in either direction several times. I won't un-friend her, although her posts are sometimes scary, as she is constantly feuding with and threatening other women in colorful language. I guess it shows how shallow such "friendships" actually are. The highlight of the evening was the sight of a dude who had his cat, standing tall, perched atop his head. His companion had a large, dark red bird on his shoulder. It was as beautiful a color as could be. Observing the crowd, I wondered if there are more people with than without tattoos these days.

The heat returned with a vengeance this afternoon. It was hot even beneath the tree in front of the Chase Bank at Bay Parkway and 85th Street. I had just come from my buddy Bags' house, where he played country star Jason Aldean's latest hit, which had a line about a pretty girl whose toes are on the dashboard. Sure enough, a van pulled up and there was a pretty girl on the passenger side in that classic pose. I love it when things like that happen, although I wasn't too happy about the heat the idling vehicle was giving off. That was a constant today, as people left their cars and AC running while they visited the bank. Couldn't blame 'em. Bags, a paraprofessional (pretentious term for teachers' aide), is facing the unhappy prospect of returning to work Tuesday. I remember the feeling well, as I too was a Para in the late '70's. As soon as school begins the staff looks to the calendar to see when the Jewish holidays fall. Even a nine-week break is not enough! Such is human nature.

My thanks to regulars Bad News Billy and Maryann, who bought books today.

Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 8/31 - RocknRoll

My thanks to the kind folks who bought books today. This evening I will once again take copies of Killing to its source, 18th Avenue, where the Santa Rosalia Feast is winding down. I hope I'm as lucky as last week. Meanwhile, here's an excerpt from an unpublished rock n roll epic, Rising Star.


1                                                         "...I know it's only rock 'n roll, but I like it...."*

   The small crowd huddled before the stage, which was but a platform that rose a foot from the floor tucked into the corner of the dark, smoky club. In design the place was like a roughly finished basement. The people cheered as the band capped its number with a deafening flourish.
   "Awright!" howled the singer, a tall, athletic, bearded blond whose locks fell well beyond his shoulders, whose taut flesh glowed with perspiration. "You're beautiful - at least some of you are. All you pretty girls now, don't forget to leave your name and number. You ugly ones take care of my fat friend back there on drums."
   He was bombarded by tiny paper balls. Laughing, he tried to avoid the barrage. The bassist bent, gathered as many of the papers as he could and stuffed them into the pocket of his shirt.
   "We're gonna do one more before we go, but before we do let me introduce the rest of the guys. On drums, fatboy himself - Richie DeSalvo." Richie banged out a crisp flourish and clash of cymbals, his dark mane whipping about. "On keyboards, our token Jew - Mitchell Weinstein." Slim, clean-cut, fair-skinned, Mitchell smiled as he sent out an eerie riff. "On bass - nervous Mike Scarpa." Mike bowed his short, compact frame over the fretboard of his Rickenbacker. "On guitar, the ice man - Paul Ranga." Tall, thin, bespectacled, Paul struck a chord on his Les Paul that reverberated throughout the club. "And on vocals, last but certainly not least, the only non-ethnic, non-New Yorker in the group - meet John Doe."
   Doe received the most applause and let out an appreciative howl. "You have such great taste. This one's called 'Star Chaser.' You better like it."
   He counted time and music burst from the stage. The audience was immediately infected with the energy. Fists flew into the air. Heads bobbed. The sound was hard and fast yet light, accessible. John's voice, as strong as it was, was lost in the volume. He compensated with movement, gyration, gestures. He spun, dipped and danced in place, overcoming the trappings of the tiny stage. The others provided the pace. Mitchell smiled as he worked at his keys. Richie pounded relentlessly on his drums. Mike eyed his fretboard intently, as if fearful of making a mistake. Paul glanced at Mitchell and laughed.
   "Goodnight!" said John, breathless, at the end of the piece, chuckling as he was bombarded with more paper. "You're too kind. Oops, here's one from a guy. You'll all get a shot, I promise. And please remember the more needy." He gazed at Mike and Richie.
   The applause died as a dance tune came through the sound system. People turned from the stage. Some headed for the exit, others for the bar, a few danced. There was still a buzz in the air.
   A blonde brought the band beer, which she deftly balanced on a small tray. "Great show." She beamed as she looked at John. Her leopard skin dress was filled with the body of a goddess.
   "Sit down," said John, seated at the edge of the stage, motioning to his lap. Mitchell and Richie, flanking him, laughed shyly.
   Her expression became serious. "I can't now. I don't wanna blow this job. It keeps my days free for auditions."
   "An actress/slash waitress. I'd've never guessed. If things don't work out, there's always porn."
   She stared, apparently unsure if he were joking. "Why don't you wait 'til I get off, that is, if you're still available? I should be out of here soon. My name's Tina."
   She smiled and hurried away. Mitchell and Richie, towels in hand, roared.

Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 8/30 - Substance

About a year ago I read Barbara Taylor Bradford’s epic, A Woman of Substance. I was so impressed I added the TV adaptation (1984) to my list at Netflix, where it was missing for quite a while. It finally arrived and I am so pleased the production was faithful to the novel, which chronicles the life of Emma Harte from her humble beginnings in rural England in the early 20th century to wealth and power. To their credit, both the book and mini-series avoid lectures on feminism. Emma Harte is easy to root for, an inspiration for all who believe that hard work, risk and good fortune lead to success. The novel is affirmation of freedom and capitalism. The role of protagonist is shared by two actresses: Jenny Seagrove, who has appeared in many BBC series, plays the young Emma; and Deborah Kerr, always the epitome of grace and class in her long, great career, plays the older. There are many familiar faces in the cast. It took me a half hour to figure out that the mean butler, Murgatroyd, is played by Barry Morse, Lt. Gerard of The Fugitive TV series. The British accent threw me. Lo and behold - he is British! Who knew? The most interesting presence is Diane Baker, whose first role was as a sister of Anne Frank in 1959, and who continues to work to this day. She bought the rights to the book and produced the six-hour piece, as well as several other films. Short of funds, she took on a role herself. Liam Neeson appears as the stalwart Blackie O’Neill. The beautiful Gayle Hunnicut and Nicola Pagget, memorable as Anna Karenina in the Masterpiece Theatre production (1977), are perfectly cast as aristocratic women. Barry Bostwick is dashing as the love of Emma’s life. UK stalwarts John Mills and George Baker, Tiberius in the greatest mini-series ever made, I, Claudius (1976), lend their talents in minor roles. And Miranda Richardson plays the hard-working grand daughter who inherits granny’s empire. Admirers of the novel will likely appreciate this solid adaptation, rated 7.5 out of ten at IMDb. I rate it 3.5 out of five.

After two days of brisk sales, the floating book shop hit a brick wall this afternoon. There was a positive, however. Maddy, a lovely, articulate young woman who works in the area, agreed to accept a loan of Killing from me for her Kindle. I'm curious as to whether it will count as a sale. I was surprised Maddy was willing to give me her email address. Although we have spoken many times, we are really strangers. Curiously, she passed from the opposite direction 15 minutes later, wiping tears from her eyes. I asked if she were all right and she said yes. My mind immediately speculated as to the cause of her sorrow: Fight/break-up with boyfriend; death in the family; loss of job. I wanted to give her a hug and ask what was wrong, but she seemed anxious to be on her way, so I kept my distance. I hope she finds substance in Killing.

Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 8/29 - Bagged

Pop quiz: What is this item?

It is a Jil Sander Vasari paper bag, priced at $290. It is described as a man-purse and features high-durability, coated paper, stitched seams and four metal eyelets that allow food to breathe. According to an article in the NY Post, women have been snapping them up. If this one doesn’t quite fit the bill, there is a black leather version selling for $630. Does this say anything significant about our society? My initial reaction to the product was negative. Then again, it’s harmless, probably even recyclable when it’s finally worn out, which would placate greeniacs, and it generates commerce and tax revenue. I think anyone who buys it is nuts, but I also question the purchase of many items available in our free society. Today a friend complained to me that he paid $60 for tickets to the U.S. Open. He wouldn’t even go near the concession stands, where a bottle of water sold for $4.50. I stopped patronizing pro sports long before I lost my job. I just couldn’t justify paying such high prices, but we should be grateful for the privilege of the opportunity of being cavalier and foolish with money. The alternative is a lot worse.

I don't know if it was the glorious weather, but people were buying and donating books today. Simon, the now 85-year-old veteran, dropped off a load, including a four volume set of fairy tales, which Mrs. Eclectic later purchased for her daughter. She donated three paperbacks and bought ten. I also sold three books in Russian, and a pristine hard cover Marvel comics compilation. Thanks, folks.

There was unwelcome action right in front of the floating book shop late in the session. Three yahoos were getting in each other's faces, making threats. One had punched a cabbie near the Sheepshead Bay train station, and two citizens decided to follow him. They did not do it intelligently, acting thuggishly. Unfortunately, my friend happened to have shown up just then, clinging to her walker. I put myself between the idiots and her and prepared for the worst. Fortunately, the perp noticed the crowd that had gathered and walked away. Soon a police car and EMT vehicle showed. An officer followed the trail on foot. Then young Ned, webmaster of the Sheepshead Bay Bites site, appeared, camera ready. He must listen to a police radio. He took a picture of the miscreant in cuffs, but wasn't sure he would use it. It was a minor event blown out of proportion by stupidity. At least no shots were fired.

Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 8/25 - Sizzling

Born in 1943, Janet Evanovich concentrated on raising a family after college. She was eventually infected with the writing bug and even took a class in improv acting to learn the nuances of dialogue. She had moderate success in the romance genre, then, observing authorities at work for two years, she hit it big in the mystery category with her Stephanie Plum series, which will soon see a 19th novel. Her books regularly top the NY Times Best Sellers list. I just finished her 2010 effort, Sizzling Sixteen, a fun read, although it strained credulity. Given the dangerous circumstances and seedy characters, the tone was a too blithe for my taste, sort of like the Thin Man flicks starring William Powell and Myrna Loy, although far seedier. The prose is smooth, the dialogue first rate, the supporting cast quirky. My only quibble is the repeated use of a pronoun or a character’s name when it is obvious who is speaking or present - apples and oranges. The narrative is refreshingly succinct. Its 309 pages read more like 209. So far, only the first of the series, One for the Money, has been made into a film. In fact, it has been done twice. Unfortunately, the first, a TV production (2004), rated 7.4 at IMDb, is not available at Netflix. The second (2012), starring the beautiful Katherine Heigl, is rated only 5.1. I can’t imagine her in the role of bounty hunter, although the character is by no means butch. Nevertheless, I added the movie to my list at Netflix. Maybe it will surprise me. It was not successful at the box office. As for Sizzling Sixteen - three on a scale of five. Remember, I am not a fan of the genre. My thanks to Wiki for the facts on the author.
A bleak, rainy morning evolved to a glorious afternoon. I actually felt the drop in humidity while operating the floating book shop. Several of my regulars showed, as did a new donor, who gave me several books on quilting, two pictorials, a large paperback on origami, and a hardcover Marvel comic compilation. Thanks, folks. It was all good until Ol' Smoky parked his butt on the ledge that surrounds the garden before the apartment building where I set up. He went on one of his rambling diatribes, chain smoking Camels, perhaps scaring potential customers away. He stayed about an hour, dropping the F-bomb continually, coughing up a storm at one point. He said his ex-wife liked to go out for Chinese food after attending religious services. If I understood him correctly, and I'm never sure I have, she was also an alcoholic. His thoughts are so disconnected it is hard to keep up with them. He would fit in smoothly among Evanovich's characters.
Visit Vic’s sites:
Vic’s Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic’s Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic’s Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic’s 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic’s 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic’s Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3