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Van Man: American Dreams
Blond hair. Pale green eyes. Megawatt smile. Young soccer prodigy Timothy Blankenship is on the cusp of signing an eight-figure contract with the San Francisco Hopefuls. He’s living the classic American Dream. But Timothy soon realizes there’s more at play than just a sport- Corporate power-brokers and politicians are pulling all the strings.
At the same time, a secret cadre of scientists are getting closer to a strange and powerful breakthrough that will change the world. For good? Or for evil?
Van American Dreams is a modern dystopian novel set in California in 2095, a time where the “united” states are no longer. A single media outlet, FAX NEWS, controls all state communication, its relentless propaganda perpetuating a deception beyond imagination.
All the while, Timothy’s beloved Uncle Harry is succumbing to the effects of an environmental illness he contracted while laboring at the Verve Mines, an energy company that profits at any cost. Uncle Harry’s sickness can only be cured by an exorbitantly expensive medication that neither he nor Timothy can afford. Yet Harry would rather trade his own life than raise the funds by selling his treasured van, which he promises to his nephew upon his eventual death.
Van Man deftly pushes the boundaries between satire and sci-fi, often with both horror and hilarity. Infinitely entertaining, the story’s nuanced social commentary and truth behind each turn of events will hit dangerously close to home for those living in today’s America.
At the same time, a secret cadre of scientists are getting closer to a strange and powerful breakthrough that will change the world. For good? Or for evil?
Van American Dreams is a modern dystopian novel set in California in 2095, a time where the “united” states are no longer. A single media outlet, FAX NEWS, controls all state communication, its relentless propaganda perpetuating a deception beyond imagination.
All the while, Timothy’s beloved Uncle Harry is succumbing to the effects of an environmental illness he contracted while laboring at the Verve Mines, an energy company that profits at any cost. Uncle Harry’s sickness can only be cured by an exorbitantly expensive medication that neither he nor Timothy can afford. Yet Harry would rather trade his own life than raise the funds by selling his treasured van, which he promises to his nephew upon his eventual death.
Van Man deftly pushes the boundaries between satire and sci-fi, often with both horror and hilarity. Infinitely entertaining, the story’s nuanced social commentary and truth behind each turn of events will hit dangerously close to home for those living in today’s America.
- GenresDystopia
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2024
27 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Marc Desellem
1 book6 followersMarc DeSellem grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland Ohio. His days were filled with the strict rules of private school, and his evenings with unchecked adventure; A sick father unable to establish order after school was out.
His neighborhood friends came from all walks of life; A lack of authority allowing them to explore the abandoned factories of America's Rust Belt, only the fireflies of the midwestern nights told them it was time to go home.
His older sister taught him how to build fortresses out of nothing more than bedsheets and wooden furniture, her influence leading him to believe in Santa Claus for longer than is traditionally normal. Still, he clings to the inner child; A treasure that must never be lost.
His neighborhood friends came from all walks of life; A lack of authority allowing them to explore the abandoned factories of America's Rust Belt, only the fireflies of the midwestern nights told them it was time to go home.
His older sister taught him how to build fortresses out of nothing more than bedsheets and wooden furniture, her influence leading him to believe in Santa Claus for longer than is traditionally normal. Still, he clings to the inner child; A treasure that must never be lost.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 10, 2025
What a wild ride! Van Man American dreams is a fast paced dystopia satire novel. I've never read anything like it! This book puts a magnifying glass on social injustices and shows us a terrifying possible reality but in a very entertaining way! There are several story lines and multiple POV's which I really enjoyed.
October 20, 2024
This was a dystopian novel set in the near future. The main character, Timothy, is an up and coming, rising soccer star. Timothy ends up injured, destroying his future in soccer.
Timothy sets out to stop the world he lives in from being utterly destroyed by the people who live in it. Timothy becomes an almost Robinhood/Batman type character, determined to rid his state of bad guys.
This story is full of adventure, friendship, bravery, and strength.
The author is master at creating characters you will love to hate.
This was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Overall, I gave this a 4.5 stars.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Timothy sets out to stop the world he lives in from being utterly destroyed by the people who live in it. Timothy becomes an almost Robinhood/Batman type character, determined to rid his state of bad guys.
This story is full of adventure, friendship, bravery, and strength.
The author is master at creating characters you will love to hate.
This was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Overall, I gave this a 4.5 stars.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
August 14, 2025
This book!
This book blew my mind! 🤯 Full of twists and turns, satire so dark and thick it was like maple syrup.
A contemporary/futuristic dystopian story full of so many topics - politics, science that just might have gone too far, a completely unhinged legal system, relationships, a broken financial institution, only very upper and very lower classes, and so much more.
How the author was able to keep all of the plot, subplot, characters, etc., straight, is beyond me.
Could I go so far as to this feels like I just read literary genius? Honestly, I really feel like I did!
Some readers might not feel the same, might not agree with some of the thoughts or think that they should be written about. Besides the fact that it's the author's right, I think that's exactly why we should read this. It makes us think. Think about what has happened in history. History repeats itself. Think about where a nation might be headed.
I'm so lucky to have had this book dropped into my lap, almost literally. I never would have had the chance to read it otherwise.
Thank you, Marc Desellum, for writing this book that made me experience a plethora of emotions.
Laugh out loud from your play-on-words and close-to-but-just-not quite infringing on any namebrand trademarks. The ridiculousness of behaviors exhibited by grossly immature individuals due to a failing societal system. Pulling my hair out (I didn't have enough these days to pull!), annoyed, and terrified.
I read.
I thought.
I felt.
I processed.
I think I came out better on the other side.
Then there was some good old American apple pie at the end that made it all worth it.
I highly recommend this book, and I'll continue to do so!
This book blew my mind! 🤯 Full of twists and turns, satire so dark and thick it was like maple syrup.
A contemporary/futuristic dystopian story full of so many topics - politics, science that just might have gone too far, a completely unhinged legal system, relationships, a broken financial institution, only very upper and very lower classes, and so much more.
How the author was able to keep all of the plot, subplot, characters, etc., straight, is beyond me.
Could I go so far as to this feels like I just read literary genius? Honestly, I really feel like I did!
Some readers might not feel the same, might not agree with some of the thoughts or think that they should be written about. Besides the fact that it's the author's right, I think that's exactly why we should read this. It makes us think. Think about what has happened in history. History repeats itself. Think about where a nation might be headed.
I'm so lucky to have had this book dropped into my lap, almost literally. I never would have had the chance to read it otherwise.
Thank you, Marc Desellum, for writing this book that made me experience a plethora of emotions.
Laugh out loud from your play-on-words and close-to-but-just-not quite infringing on any namebrand trademarks. The ridiculousness of behaviors exhibited by grossly immature individuals due to a failing societal system. Pulling my hair out (I didn't have enough these days to pull!), annoyed, and terrified.
I read.
I thought.
I felt.
I processed.
I think I came out better on the other side.
Then there was some good old American apple pie at the end that made it all worth it.
I highly recommend this book, and I'll continue to do so!
April 12, 2025
If you like being triggered by the news and the sideshow which is American politics, Van Man is the book for you.
Comparables: Mickey 17 and Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal. There were elements of Hunger Games in the way Desellem divided the United States in the future, and how he kept people separated and oppressed using the media in an Orwellian way.
This dystopian novel, set in the near future, rips the most problematic headlines found in politics, social media, and conspiracy theories in America over the last 12 years, and blows them into exaggerated proportions. The extreme wealth dispersity (the middle class has been erased), social manipulation by the elite, and cessation of humanity give the book a real "abandon all hope, ye who enter here" vibe that did not let up. But it's not ENTIRELY doom and gloom as there are some legitimately very funny parts.
I am a very empathetic person, and this read was a constant reminder that people lately have shown a propensity to look out for #1 over the greater good, if not be willing to take a little pain if it causes people they don't like (or been told they don't like) to suffer more. I had to put it down frequently and certainly didn't read it before bed.
If you read for escapism, this book is not for you because nearly every aspect will strike a little too close to home. On the other hand, if political outrage is your jam, you will love it.
Comparables: Mickey 17 and Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal. There were elements of Hunger Games in the way Desellem divided the United States in the future, and how he kept people separated and oppressed using the media in an Orwellian way.
This dystopian novel, set in the near future, rips the most problematic headlines found in politics, social media, and conspiracy theories in America over the last 12 years, and blows them into exaggerated proportions. The extreme wealth dispersity (the middle class has been erased), social manipulation by the elite, and cessation of humanity give the book a real "abandon all hope, ye who enter here" vibe that did not let up. But it's not ENTIRELY doom and gloom as there are some legitimately very funny parts.
I am a very empathetic person, and this read was a constant reminder that people lately have shown a propensity to look out for #1 over the greater good, if not be willing to take a little pain if it causes people they don't like (or been told they don't like) to suffer more. I had to put it down frequently and certainly didn't read it before bed.
If you read for escapism, this book is not for you because nearly every aspect will strike a little too close to home. On the other hand, if political outrage is your jam, you will love it.
December 25, 2024
THE WEIRDEST DYSTOPIAN RIDE
Marc Desellem's "Van Man" is what you'd get if "Animal Farm" and "The Hunger Games" had a wild baby that was raised by comedians in a post-apocalyptic America.
The story drops us into a bizarre future where hydrogen-powered Teslas share the road with clunking gas guzzlers, and street corners are named after politicians (because subtlety is so last century).
The author, coming from an improv background, brings a unique flavor to the dystopian genre, serving up short, punchy chapters that keep you bouncing from one wild scene to the next like a pinball in a machine designed by George Orwell.
Whether you're in it for the twisted humor, the social commentary, or just want to see what happens when sci-fi and satire have a demolition derby, this book delivers more surprises than a mystery flavor energy drink in the apocalypse.
Marc Desellem's "Van Man" is what you'd get if "Animal Farm" and "The Hunger Games" had a wild baby that was raised by comedians in a post-apocalyptic America.
The story drops us into a bizarre future where hydrogen-powered Teslas share the road with clunking gas guzzlers, and street corners are named after politicians (because subtlety is so last century).
The author, coming from an improv background, brings a unique flavor to the dystopian genre, serving up short, punchy chapters that keep you bouncing from one wild scene to the next like a pinball in a machine designed by George Orwell.
Whether you're in it for the twisted humor, the social commentary, or just want to see what happens when sci-fi and satire have a demolition derby, this book delivers more surprises than a mystery flavor energy drink in the apocalypse.
February 18, 2025
unique and interesting
I enjoyed this read quite a lot. Timothy navigates a complex landscape of modern America, in a way that is both relatable and fresh.
Over approximately 15 months an awful lot happens. The books exploration of Tim’s interactions with various people and the way he processes the world around him was different. Some of the writing was a bit raw for me… operations without anaesthesia made me cringe. The writing is often laced with witty remarks breaking down the heaviness of living in a depressing world.
The themes of ambition, growth, and the pursuit of dreams struck real.
Recommended for anyone looking for a story that is both grounded and thought-provoking.
I enjoyed this read quite a lot. Timothy navigates a complex landscape of modern America, in a way that is both relatable and fresh.
Over approximately 15 months an awful lot happens. The books exploration of Tim’s interactions with various people and the way he processes the world around him was different. Some of the writing was a bit raw for me… operations without anaesthesia made me cringe. The writing is often laced with witty remarks breaking down the heaviness of living in a depressing world.
The themes of ambition, growth, and the pursuit of dreams struck real.
Recommended for anyone looking for a story that is both grounded and thought-provoking.
September 1, 2025
Great book
I definitely enjoyed this book. It takes place in the future of the United States of America. However, in this book it’s the Divided States of America. This takes place in California. Nobody is allowed to leave the state. There are no rules in the work force so employees are not treated fairly and taken advantage of. Timothy “The Van Man” signs a contract where he is promised 14 million dollars to play soccer. However, when he gets injured that is taken away from him. His uncle is very sick and needs a medicine to help him live but they can’t afford. Tim gets a job and tries a few things to get the money but isn’t successful until he finds some invisibility pills. Unfortunately, his uncle has already passed away.
I definitely enjoyed this book. It takes place in the future of the United States of America. However, in this book it’s the Divided States of America. This takes place in California. Nobody is allowed to leave the state. There are no rules in the work force so employees are not treated fairly and taken advantage of. Timothy “The Van Man” signs a contract where he is promised 14 million dollars to play soccer. However, when he gets injured that is taken away from him. His uncle is very sick and needs a medicine to help him live but they can’t afford. Tim gets a job and tries a few things to get the money but isn’t successful until he finds some invisibility pills. Unfortunately, his uncle has already passed away.
September 8, 2024
An Entertaining Satire
Van Man definitely makes you think about today’s political scene and how much of a farce it all is. I really appreciate Marc’s satirical storytelling, witty dialogue, and great character development.
In case you can’t imagine a world where mainstream media is controlled and constantly pumping deceitful propaganda into your mind, where big corporations will do anything to exploit for the bottom-line, and where pharmaceutical companies will profit in the billions off of illnesses, Marc does an excellent job portraying it. Doesn’t feel so 2095 to me.
Van Man definitely makes you think about today’s political scene and how much of a farce it all is. I really appreciate Marc’s satirical storytelling, witty dialogue, and great character development.
In case you can’t imagine a world where mainstream media is controlled and constantly pumping deceitful propaganda into your mind, where big corporations will do anything to exploit for the bottom-line, and where pharmaceutical companies will profit in the billions off of illnesses, Marc does an excellent job portraying it. Doesn’t feel so 2095 to me.
October 9, 2025
DNF at 18%
Where do I start… how about my final straw for cringy dialogue and writing “see ya Saturday toots”…
This story premise had potential… a dystopian US in 2095 after a war on information… but I can’t tell if the writer didn’t like his characters or just needed to be given to an editor… or a new editor…
And for the record it IS cringe to include a s*x scene between minors… and even if they weren’t minors… that was cringe…
Terrible characters, bad dialogue, disjointed storytelling and world building that feels more like a history lesson
Where do I start… how about my final straw for cringy dialogue and writing “see ya Saturday toots”…
This story premise had potential… a dystopian US in 2095 after a war on information… but I can’t tell if the writer didn’t like his characters or just needed to be given to an editor… or a new editor…
And for the record it IS cringe to include a s*x scene between minors… and even if they weren’t minors… that was cringe…
Terrible characters, bad dialogue, disjointed storytelling and world building that feels more like a history lesson
September 11, 2024
A dystopian masterpiece
Van Man: American Dreams is captivating and thought provoking journey through future that feels reflective of our current societal challenges. It challenges the readers to think about today’s societal issues. Story is full of unexpected twist and turns that will keep you hooked. Author’s unique tone shines through the story, especially in how he brings characters to life. Enjoyed reading, highly recommend!
Van Man: American Dreams is captivating and thought provoking journey through future that feels reflective of our current societal challenges. It challenges the readers to think about today’s societal issues. Story is full of unexpected twist and turns that will keep you hooked. Author’s unique tone shines through the story, especially in how he brings characters to life. Enjoyed reading, highly recommend!
August 27, 2025
This book is a perfect description of what could happen if people continue to fight with one another and let the powers that be run amok. The divide between the haves and have nots is so great there is no longer a middle class. Every character is over the top "fun." For readers who love Dystopians, this book is a must read. And who doesn't love a secret laboratory working on a forgotten government project?
May 19, 2024
The first half of this book was just plain depressing. But that was to set the stage and introduce the characters, including all the greedy business owners and corrupt politicians that were making life hell for everyone else. When karma started catching up with the rich, cruel characters, the story got really satisfying and unputdownable. Great dystopian / sci-fi comedy.
August 18, 2024
If you love social science fiction, dystopia read this!
This is such an enjoyable read I breezed right through it. Read it. It's great!
The characters are so interesting, and you keep reading just to see what they are doing next.
This is such an enjoyable read I breezed right through it. Read it. It's great!
The characters are so interesting, and you keep reading just to see what they are doing next.
November 5, 2024
Dystopian story about a boy crossing the country in his uncle's old van. The topics in the book seem unreal but looking at todays society and the way the media is such a large part of our day to day life makes the story more real then you'd like it to be.
September 26, 2024
Interesting story
Van man is an interesting distophian story. Very good read that I enjoyed reading from start to finish. Well done.
Van man is an interesting distophian story. Very good read that I enjoyed reading from start to finish. Well done.
April 3, 2025
I read 100 pages in before I set it down. I am not the intended audience for this novel and I could not finish it.
May 3, 2025
As this dystopian story is a bit close to home, it made me feel more anxious than entertained, but I'm okay with that. The world building was good, and the characters were either incredibly likable or complete scum (extremely so). Some of the story felt quite rushed, especially the ending. The book went into such great detail early on (up through 270 or so pages) and then just quickly revealed most of the antagonists' demise within a few paragraphs, without much needed (or should I say desired?) explanation. This made it feel off balance because you were left asking a lot of "why" and "how." Overall, good storytelling and a satisfying read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews