Zero On Me

Zero On Me is a thoroughly humorous recollection of a father-son relationship that unfolds during the fabulous 50s and 60s. It opens, however, with the father’s tension-filled episode during World War II, an incident that becomes the foundation for this true story. Following the father’s return home, his career path limits his relationship with his son – causing the youngster to seek recognition and acceptance from his peers, embrace the role of classroom comedian, frequently clash with teachers, and engage in a myriad of youthful challenges.

The son narrates this view of childhood and young adult years through a colorful prism of “someday you’ll look back at this and laugh.” He maneuvers through this nostalgic period with veiled implications and historic references that are embedded in the landscape of our society. Americana, pop culture, sports, and politics, are among the fond milestones and treasurers woven into his enjoyable and highly entertaining view of growing up – be they from new friends, teachers, the latest fad, song, movie, or celebrity. Often they are simply commonly dismissed situations that become irresistible opportunities that characterize this youngster’s maturing as he adjusts to a constantly changing world from having moved so many times.

It is only after the father’s death when the aging son recognizes that their limited time together had been enhanced by his father’s quality advice and strong values: remembrances of doing what’s expected and what’s right. In retrospect, the son uncovers an unexpected treasurer rooted long ago on a remote and forgotten battlefield. Appreciation for the sacrifices the father made leads the son to a remarkable finding that had been lost for a lifetime, a discovery that makes for a surprising and uplifting conclusion.

Readers are encouraged to sample the first few chapters.