The Final Death of Rock-and-Roll and Other Stories

A. W. DeAnnuntis wastes no time in bringing on his fantastical situations and odd characters, often setting the stage in the very first sentence: “Our house is actually a clock.” (“At Love in the House of Work”); and, “Once again it’s a different park today, and this is why Peter likes it.” (“The Park of No Return”).

DeAnnuntis takes us on surreal journeys to other worlds that, while looking amazingly similar to the everyday reality we know, are filled with talking dogs, unemployed bears, alien museums, and odd, even uncomfortable visits with Ernest Hemingway (we get way more information than we need to know about the dismal state of his teeth) and Jimi Hendrix, whose death caused the death of rock and roll, necessary for it to “become perfect and eternal.” Everyday situations, like needing to make home or appliance repairs, are handled not by calling a repairman or an electrician, but through the services of a “house psychologist” who tests the home’s electrical and plumbing systems with meters and repairs them by having carefully controlled sex (“To the left…more….Harder…Hurry!”) with the surprised, but not unwilling, homeowner.

DeAnnuntis is the author of two previous novels and has published short fiction in many literary journals. This book is a stunning glimpse into what a marvelous writer can do when he gives free rein to his truly original, quirky mind.

Reviewed by Kristine Morris

Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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