I am writing to share with you that I have just published my first novel, at age 76. It is a memoir/novella titled "Kauko the Flying Finn". If you are interested in reading it, you can find the book by searching for the title on amazon.com
Below, I have included the book's cover and a synopsis. The book has already received a number excellent reviews from readers, and I would love for you to check it out, but only if it sounds interesting to you.
A 75-year-old man, who is feeling down both physically and mentally, unexpectedly receives a flattering email message from a Reverend Dr. Dennis R. Davenport--a man he can’t recall. After searching his mind, a memory emerges. He hears a voice from his distant past, encouraging him and giving him heartfelt assurance that if he stays focused, positive, and determined, he will become a successful athlete.
Soon, he and the reader are transported back 57 years, to his alma mater, Eastern Michigan University (EMU), where the reader and the aging man begin to watch a young athlete pursue his dream of becoming a great triple jumper. However, very quickly it becomes clear that the mission is daunting. The triple jump is both physically and technically difficult, and he lacks size and experience.
We meet the athletic trainer assigned to the track team, a freshman named Dennis Davenport. Whenever the young triple jumper is on the verge of giving up, Dennis steps forward and treats both his physical and mental pain. We watch the young triple jumper as he pursues his impossible dream.
Dear Clifford. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you, but I want you to know how much I enjoyed your book.
It was so interesting to read about all you went through during our time at Eastern Michigan University. I had no idea!
All the learning you did on your own about your sport -- your observations of other jumpers and your own awareness
of what you could and couldn't do, the development of your own training exercises and routines -- you really had to be
your own coach. It's a story of determination, mental and physical grit, and the importance of encouragement and
support you got from others, in particular your trainer who inspired this book. I can see why you felt compelled to write
this story, and I'm so glad I read it.
I also appreciated the bits of humor you interjected in the story, along with the references to your English literature
background (speaking as a fellow English Lit major). And I especially enjoyed the shoutout to the McGregor Library,
a place that lifted up so many of us.
Clifford, thank you also for the inscription you wrote to me. This book will have a special place in my heart.
I hope all is well with you, and that you are working on your next memoir/novella! I want to read that, too!
Love from your longtime and faraway friend,
Chris
Chris
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Just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed reading the book. It released many memories
of the track meets my husband and I enjoyed. As you may recall, we were BIG track fans and
attended many Olympic events. The necessary practice, pain, conditioning for track events
were described so vividly that I could “feel” all those events.
Charmaine
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I just finished your book. And enjoyed it very much, It was easily readable and engaging.
But most important how great this book would be to encourage kids trying the same goals.
This should be in all the schools.
Susie
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Quite a story! I didn’t realize you had a story to tell, so happy that you put it to paper.
I’d like to know the rest of your story since there’s probably much more to tell.
John
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We did purchase the book and I have already read it. You did a very good job my friend.
Bill
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I finished reading your memoir/novella this morning and I want you to know I really enjoyed it….
Anyone who had experience being on a sports team would enjoy your book. For those who
competed in sports like swimming, diving, gymnastics, track and field know that you are not
only part of a team but you are always competing against yourself to be better than your last event.
You captured that feeling and drive extremely well.
Rick
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Hi Clifford, I just finished your book. It’s a good read and a good story. I wish I could visualize your jump, but I couldn’t.
So it would be great to see a video. But I like your writing. I’m left with the thought, I hope you keep writing.
It was a pretty exciting read anyway. Take care and thanks a lot thanks for the book.
And it’s great to know someone that has the discipline and wherewithal to stick to writing something like this.
Linda
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Here’s a plug for you. Candy likes your book so much that she gave her copy (well, a copy) to our waitress today.
Larry
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Clifford,
Finished the book and really enjoyed learning about the triple jump
and your preparation and workouts. If I were a coach I would make it
required reading for all players, no matter what sport. It is impressive
to see your self-determination, self-control and inner (and outer) strength
to achieve the goal you set for yourself. Also, meeting and knowing you just made the book
more special. I think your achievements and resume puts you in a rarefied class!
That is your legacy and you earned it.
Your friend, Chris
Chris
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Clifford,
I enjoyed the book and your retelling of your college days experience.
I related to your height (as a former 5’6” person) and the persistence you needed to reach your objectives.
Quite a story! I didn’t realize you had a story to tell, so happy that you put it to paper.
I’d like to know the rest of your story since there’s probably much more to tell.
Your friend, John
John