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Overcoming Bad Decisions
American Jukebox follows a young boy and his father, Dancer, a baseball pitcher whose life takes an unexpected turn, leading them to a small town where he learns life lessons about shattered dreams and the challenges of growing up. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My first novel, American Past Time (published in 2014) is the prequel to American Jukebox. American Past Time is primarily Dancer Stonemason’s story – his fall from grace, and his recovery. It ends in 1973 when Clayton Stonemason has just returned from Viet Nam. American Jukebox, revisits those early years, but from Clayton’s perspective as a boy growing to adulthood. The second half of the novel follows Clayton on his journey.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
I think so. Clayton was a challenge. He had idolized his father as a young boy, and when Dancer was disgraced that wounded Clayton, and he didn’t want anything to do with his father. He didn’t want to be compared to him, but as he grows up it is obvious that he is much like his father and despite his protests he doesn’t hate him. He loves him. The challenge was showing his evolution from wounded child to an adult who through his own bad choices and failures comes to understand that no one is perfect.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
All of the Stonemason stories – not just American Jukebox, but also the prequel, American Past Time, and the third book in the trilogy, Everyone Dies Famous are about people making bad decisions and their struggle to overcome those decisions. In Jim Stonemason’s commencement address to his high school, he finishes with this exhortation:
“When we fail, it doesn’t have to be forever. We have to forgive ourselves. Let me repeat that. We have to forgive ourselves. As long as we’re still breathing, we have a chance to make things right. But we can’t if we’re spending all our energy blaming ourselves. So when you stumble, give yourself a break.”
Forgiveness. Perseverance. The opportunity for redemption if we keep trying. If we stay in the game. I guess I would call those the themes I explored in all of these novels.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The novel I am working on now is titled, “Nothing Left to Lose” and it is the sequel to my novel, “Freedom’s Just Another Word…” which are lines from the late, great Kris Kristofferson’s classic song, “Me and Bobby McGee”. I am hoping it will be available next fall, but I have a lot of work to do.
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Clayton Stonemason idolized his father, a hometown hero in their small Missouri town. But when his father’s life unravels, Clayton loses his way, too. He tries to escape his father’s legacy but discovers he can’t run from his destiny.
AMERICAN JUKEBOX, a story of small-town America in the last decades of the twentieth century, explores the many ways our relationships, hopes, and dreams can alter the course of our lives.
American Jukebox
American Jukebox, by Len Joy, is a heartfelt exploration of childhood, family, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood. Set in mid-20th century America, the story centers on Clayton, a young boy, and his father, Dancer, a baseball pitcher whose life takes an unexpected turn. Through snapshots of Clayton’s childhood, the narrative delves into his relationship with his father, who eventually leaves baseball and faces a series of personal and financial hardships. As Clayton navigates the complexities of family life, he learns tough lessons about shattered dreams, harsh realities, and the inevitable challenges of growing up. The story vividly portrays small-town life and the struggles families face when their aspirations falter, weaving a tale of resilience and emotional growth.
In this literary fiction piece, Len Joy captures the essence of how personal choices, family ties, and unforeseen events shape one’s future. Readers are taken on Clayton’s emotional journey as he wrestles with his father’s downfall, his mother’s endurance, and his own coming-of-age. The book’s nostalgic tone, coupled with its vivid depiction of 1950s and 60s America, paints a picture of a time when baseball symbolized not just sport, but hope and heartbreak. Each chapter is concise, making it an easy read, yet packed with emotional depth.
The theme of a dysfunctional family makes for a poignant and, at times, difficult read, with Clayton’s relationship with his father serving as the novel’s emotional core. Dancer’s fall from the pitcher’s mound to working in a factory is a tragic arc, one that resonates with anyone who’s experienced the disillusionment of seeing a parent’s dreams crumble. Clayton’s idealization of his father is gradually dismantled as he confronts the painful truths of adulthood. This depiction of family turbulence and childhood disillusionment is delivered in a subtle yet powerful manner. Joy’s writing is simple yet descriptive, offering vivid imagery without over-complication. Clayton’s emotional growth is paced perfectly, making his journey feel both intimate and relatable. The book touches on universal themes: the fleeting moments of childhood, the bonds within a family, and the inevitable loss of innocence.
American Jukebox is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with relatable characters and a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged. Len Joy’s storytelling brings to life the joys and sorrows of growing up in a world where dreams and reality often collide. It’s a touching and simple read, deeply resonant with anyone who’s ever grappled with the complexities of family and the passage of time.
Pages: 326 | ASIN : B0DF5B3QV4
Fallen From Grace
Freedom’s Just Another Word follows a scandalized political writer who, while trying to regain his fame, must evaluate his beliefs and protect his children. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The short answer is that I started writing this novel when my hometown paper, the Chicago Tribune, was going through a wrenching change in ownership. Many of my favorite columnists were jettisoned as the new owners struggled to survive in the world of 21st-century journalism.
It had to be a very difficult time for both those who were let go and for the survivors. That event provided the career background for the story I wrote.
Almost all major newspapers have had popular columnists who have “fallen from grace,” and the Tribune was no exception. I realized as I look back at the other novels I have written that a common feature in all of them is that the main character has achieved a measure of success and then lost it. I guess I am most interested in the life lived after the cheering stops.
In Freedom’s Just Another Word, Jake Doyle made a mistake of the heart, and he paid the price. As he says early on, he has no regrets. At least, that’s what he tells us.
Jake struggles with his political beliefs and his desire to protect his family. When the two views contract each other, he has to decide what matters more. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Another theme common to all my novels is the notion of loyalty. I like characters (and real people, too!) who put loyalty to their friends and loved ones above their own personal interests. Jake is that kind of person, but in this story, the conflicts he faces are complicated. Can he remain true to values he has held his entire life if they conflict with what he needs to do to protect his family?
The first line of the novel is, “I used to be famous.” Jake, who is not always a totally reliable narrator, seems to accept his reduced status. He’s content to play out the string. But as the story unfolds, he is presented with an opportunity that will put him back in the game. He must decide if the prize is worth the price.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I am interested in the life lived after the cheering stops. What does someone do to pick up the pieces and get on with his or her life?
The novel touches on many hot-button issues: abortion, gun control, race relations, politics, social media.
In our society we tend to identify or label people by what they do or what they believe. Here is what Jake Doyle wrote about that in the first column that appears in the book:
If we rely on the labels we assign folks instead of trying to discover why they believe what they believe, we are doing ourselves a disservice. We are being intellectually lazy.
Many folks on the right and the left want the same thing. For sure, nobody wants to put children at risk. We just disagree on how to achieve the goal.
Our country is polarized. Gun control. Abortion. Income inequality. Climate change. And, of course, the issue no one can escape: the President’s conduct. Those issues divide us. We need to have an honest debate. But if we label ourselves as “The Resistance” and refuse to engage, that’s like deciding everyone who doesn’t agree with us is a traitor. Unworthy of consideration.
That mindset is myopic and dangerous. And it’s tearing the country apart.
We need to do better.
I agree with Jake.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am about half finished with a new novel titled AMERICAN JUKEBOX.
The first novel I wrote, AMERICAN PAST TIME, which was published in 2014, is the story of Dancer Stonemason, an all-star minor league pitcher who, on the cusp of being brought up to the major leagues, pitches a perfect game but injures himself and that costs him his shot at making it to the majors.
His life unravels, and the novel, which covers the era from 1953 to 1973, tells his story of failure and redemption and how that impacts the lives of his two sons, Clayton and Jimmy, and his wife Dede.
My third novel, EVERYONE DIES FAMOUS, published in 2020, returns to Dancer Stonemason and takes place on a single day in 2003. He is grieving the death of his son Clayton and helping his other son, Jimmy, to liquidate Clayton’s business – American Jukebox.
AMERICAN JUKEBOX (the novel-in-progress) is Clayton’s story. It covers the early years of AMERICAN PAST TIME (but from Clayton’s perspective) and progresses through the years leading up to Clayton’s death in 2001.
So with this novel, I will have a STONEMASON TRILOGY.
Before I began work on this novel, I completed a screenplay adaptation for my novel, DRY HEAT, and I plan to also do an adaptation for my novel, BETTER DAYS.
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Twenty years ago, his Chicago political column was syndicated in two hundred papers, but he had an affair — and a son — with his intern, and lost it all. Now he writes a local column and drives for Uber to pay his bills.
Jake is playing out the string when his tranquil world is turned upside down. His biracial son — an ambitious entrepreneur — is marked for death by a street gangster, his alcoholic daughter is pregnant and wants an abortion — which his ex-wife is determined to stop at any cost – and his boss, a wealthy publisher, wants Jake to give up his column to help him run for president.
Jake believes in gun control, but he wants to protect his son. He believes in his daughter’s right to choose, but that belief looks different now that it’s personal. And he wants to keep writing his column without interference, but he also wants one more chance to be famous again.
Freedom’s Just Another Word…
In Freedom’s Just Another Word, we journey through life from the eyes of Jake, a distinguished writer, a man of great intellect, and a keen observer of the human condition. Jake is no stranger to the world of literature, having gained considerable repute as a successful columnist with the Chicago Tribune in a column christened “Jake’s Corner.” His storytelling prowess is not just exceptional, but it has also earned him a Pulitzer nomination for his investigative reporting on corruption within city council.
Jake’s character is painted with nuanced layers, making him endearing and relatable from the onset. His past experiences, his perspectives, and the decisions he makes, all contribute to his portrayal as an astute gentleman who attracts admiration and camaraderie.
The book captures the reader’s attention by seamlessly weaving events that mirror the gritty realism of life – the loss of friends, family dynamics, love, marriage, and the full spectrum of societal issues. One of the highlights is Jake’s intriguing and slightly unconventional romantic entanglement with Monique. Their love story, marked by their age difference and eventual separation, adds a unique facet to the narrative.
Jake’s commendable nurturing and love for Devante, the child borne out of his relationship with Monique, underscore the vital role of a father in a child’s life. This relationship serves as a potent reminder that parental involvement is essential, regardless of the parent’s relationship status.
As the narrative unfolds, we find ourselves deeply immersed in Jake’s world, riddled with complexities and variegated characters. The character sketches are vivid, from Jake’s children, each with distinct personalities, to the other characters who add color and depth to the narrative. Charlotte, Jake’s daughter, strikingly mirrors her father, both physically and in character, providing an intriguing contrast to her mother. The author’s rich descriptions enable the reader to visualize the characters vividly, enhancing the reading experience.
Other characters such as Tawni, an engaging yet occasionally vexing individual, and Devante, an optimistic and driven young man, enrich the storyline. Even the less likable characters like Jamal, Lucy Hall, Carlos, Bianca, and Reynolds contribute to the gripping nature of the book.
Freedom’s Just Another Word will undoubtedly appeal to readers who relish slow-paced narratives with intertwining storylines. The book, written in a captivating journal-like format from a first-person perspective, traverses a wide array of themes from death, law, and education to relationships, crime, love, and even sports like boxing. The only point of contention might be the cliffhanger ending, which leaves the reader yearning for more. Nonetheless, the book remains a compelling exploration of life’s multifaceted realities.
Pages: 319 | ASIN : B0CGZ31MS9
Casualties and Survivors
Casualties & Survivors takes this stance: life cannot be seen as black and white, as every situation always has gray areas. One could argue that there will always be casualties and survivors, whether the loss of a friendship or an opportunity. However, there are times when people die, leaving behind the survivors, who must endure the loss.
In a series of short stories, Len Joy takes the reader on a journey of lost love, opportunities, and coping with the void of someone no longer around. While there is a backdrop of tragedy and melancholy to each tale, each story presents new opportunities for the survivors, though not always in the way they expect. You’ll encounter tales of an artist coping with the loss of his lifelong love, only to experience another side of this journey with a surprising twist. Another tale follows how a couple develops a relationship over a simple object, a trash can.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and each story’s unique plot and character dilemmas. While some of the stories were shorter than others, I mainly found them more gut-punching and vivid, as they quickly built momentum and anticipation of what was to come. Other stories were a bit longer, which allowed for more character and setting descriptions, leaving a strong visual impression of well-crafted scenes, such as a Christmas tree lot, the naked winter yoga, and an artist’s sparsely furnished apartment. Len Joy creates lasting moments that stay behind with the reader for a fantastic reading experience.
Len Joy’s writing style is clear and concise, which makes for easy, enjoyable reading. The recurring message in Joy’s stories is gut-wrenching, realistic, reassuring, and comforting. The author leaves the reader curious about each character’s future and what’s in store for them. While, at times, the author uses explicit language in some scenes, fans of short stories will enjoy the loosely threaded stories and how they interact with each other throughout the book.
Pages: 178 | ASIN: B0B92QYYYV
A Life Changed Forever
Dry Heat follows a high school jock who is arrested for attempted murder while the real criminal goes missing, and he must make choices that will alter the course of his future. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
Back in the 90s I had an engine rebuilding company in Phoenix. The son of one of my employees was arrested and charged with shooting at an off-duty police officer during a highway altercation. The actual shooter escaped and despite having no record, the boy was facing a trial where he could be sentenced to jail for ten years. His family had to make an instant decision to take a plea deal for three years. So instead of college he went to prison.
The agony for the boy and his parents of having to make that kind of instant decision was something that stuck with me. A stupid mistake and bad luck and a life is changed forever.
Joey has a really bad day that only gets worse as the story goes on. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Joey is a good person and he’s trying to do the right thing, but he’s facing pressures he’s never faced before and he keeps making bad decisions. I wanted the story to be a cautionary tale, but also a hopeful one. Joseph (the adult Joey) makes a new life for himself. He finds redemption and has not given up on love.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Loyalty. Family ties. Friendship. The enduring power of love.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am about 2/3 through the first draft of a novel titled, “Freedom’s Just Another Word…” It takes place in 2018 and is the story of fictional Chicago Tribune columnist, Jake Doyle, who fell from grace years ago (had an affair and a child with his twenty-year- old intern) and is struggling to survive in the newspaper world of the 21st century. When the new billionaire owner of the Tribune recruits Jake to help him with his campaign to run for president, Jake must decide whether to go along or get out.
I am hoping it will be available by the end of 2023.
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The high school bonfire is supposed to be the kickoff to a great night: Joey has just won a football scholarship and he’s hoping for a sex breakthrough with his new girlfriend. Then his true love–but ex-girlfriend–Mallory tells his she’s pregnant. He’s reeling from that news when the bonfire explodes.
Joey, his new girlfriend and her drug dealer friend TJ, flee in her truck. When the police pursue, TJ shoots at the cop’s car. It crashes and in the ensuing chaos TJ slips away undetected. Joey, the only adult in the truck, is hauled off to jail.
Joey is charged with attempted murder and released on bail. TJ is nowhere to be found. When Joey discovers that Mallory’s father is pressuring her to terminate the pregnancy, Joey has to remain free to prevent that from happening. In desperation, he reaches out to notorious gang leader, Chico Torres, whom he met in jail, for help locating TJ.
When Joey is offered a deal–his freedom in exchange for his cooperation in nailing Chico–he faces a decision that will change the course of his life and Mallory’s.
Dry Heat
Things are not going so well for Joey Blade. On the night of his birthday, the girl he lost his virginity to, Mallory, tells him she’s pregnant. While at the high school bonfire, there is an explosion. Joey flees with his current girlfriend Wendy and her drug-dealing friend TJ. In their race to escape the explosion, they wind up in a police chase where TJ shoots at the police cars. The ensuing crash leads to Joey being arrested while Wendy goes free and TJ has disappeared. Once getting out of jail, Joey enlists the help of notorious gang leader Chico Torres to find TJ and – ultimately – redemption.
Len Joy’s chaotic novel Dry Heat doesn’t hold back when it comes to colorful terms and edgy commentary. Joy accurately portrays the stereotypical teenager from the late nineties that you find in cult classic films of that period. There is a feeling of nostalgia that readers in their late 30’s and early 40’s will identify with. The early scenes of this action-packed novel offer a foreshadowing of the rest of the book. Excitement and drama fill the pages to come, and readers will have to hold on because it will be a wild ride.
This enthralling novel feels like a cautionary tale for teenagers. A story where every wrong decision imaginable is made. Readers may find it is all too real and relatable, encountering a situation that is too big for their age. At one point, author Len Joy describes Joey’s day as a disastrously mishandled situation, which is the perfect way to describe it. Reading this shocking at times novel will give readers the feeling of watching a car wreck in slow-motion. You are hooked; you know it will happen; you just have to read and see how it all plays out.
Joy took time and care to flesh out the characters and make readers develop an emotional attachment to them. They all have a bit of the classic high school stereotypes in them, something many readers will identify with. There’s Darville, the rich kid; Mallory, the tragically promiscuous girl; Wendy, the snotty prom queen; and of course, the hero Joey, the jock. Yet, throughout the story, they grow, change, and transcend what we have come to expect from their assigned stereotypes. We learn that they’re human, which every good novel should achieve.
Dry Heat is a coming-of-age novel that will attract readers interested in crime thrillers and suspenseful action drama. With edgy dialogue and action, readers will be turning the page of this riveting novel to see if Joey can get himself out of the mess he is in.
Pages: 313 | ASIN : B097TT97SQ
LITERARY TITAN 