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The December Issue
The joys of retirement feel imminent to columnist Paul Scrivensby, but when his penultimate column stirs controversy, the writer soon finds easing into carefree days of leisure a luxury growing elusive. Embroiled in the unexpected pursuits presented before him while on the verge of retirement, Paul discovers what he and others are capable of and searches for understanding of what is truly expected of him at this pivotal point in his life.
"a splendid work of enormous value and imagination. . . The December Issue warms up the soul from its first chapter to the last.” –Chancticleer Book Reviews, 5 Stars
"a splendid work of enormous value and imagination. . . The December Issue warms up the soul from its first chapter to the last.” –Chancticleer Book Reviews, 5 Stars
290 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2023
About the author
J. Shep
2 books48 followersJ. Shep, author of The December Issue (2023) and After Me (2024), has taught at the high school and the university levels while directing plays for several decades. The Illinois resident enjoys writing, working with others on their craft, teaching, listening to music, and laughing.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 6, 2025
I loved the themes in this book. I loved the premise of an about to be retired writer. I enjoyed reading about a loving multigenerational family. However, the execution was too jumbled for me. It was too much crammed into a short book.
Weeks after reviewing this book, I’m bumping it up to a 4.
The reason is , I keep hearing in my head “ I choose to not be offended”. This has helped me so much.
Weeks after reviewing this book, I’m bumping it up to a 4.
The reason is , I keep hearing in my head “ I choose to not be offended”. This has helped me so much.
May 11, 2025
Like After Me, it is moving in so many ways, yet it is so different. It is fast paced and thought-provoking. Also like After Me, the set of characters is varied and rich, complex and fun. But whereas After Me makes you feel, indescribably and beautifully feel, The December Issue makes you think. The ways controversial topics are presented, some serious and some light, inspired a more positive outlook on life, I have to say. As noted, it got me thinking, but it also got me being more positive.
August 28, 2024
From author J. Shep comes a story of one man’s rather unexpected and tumultuous journey to his retirement, titled The December Issue. Shep’s story chronicles how our protagonist, Paul Scrivensby, does not find retiring as easy as he expected it to be.
Paul Scrivensby worked as a columnist for the magazine "The Current Front" for 45 years. Shep’s story opens with Paul having completed his second to last column, eagerly looking forward to leisurely days of retirement and spending time with his wife, three children, and grandchildren. However, the first indication that retirement is not going to come as easily as he expected is when Paul’s editor-in-chief, Stephen, presents Paul with two filled, heaping mailbags of letters all written in response to Paul’s latest column. Paul mistakenly assumes the letters are fond farewells, when in fact, many of the letters are quite critical of Paul’s column written on the decline of class. Stephen presents Paul with an option to rewrite his final column, to be printed in the December issue, as an apology to anyone he may have inadvertently offended. Paul, while somewhat aghast that Stephen is even asking this of him, simply tells Stephen that he will consider it.
Paul then heads home to Saint Catherine’s Cove to be with his family, and this is where more events transpire that Paul never could have expected or predicted. Lucretia, an old friend of Paul’s, suffers a heart attack and while driving to the hospital to visit her, Paul and his friend Oliver are in a car accident. Paul and Oliver walk away with minor injuries, leaving Paul to wear a sling on his arm for bone contusions. At a press conference held at the hospital, a journalist named Ted Handly creates controversy by referring to Paul’s priest, Father Soplido, using derogatory, ethnic slurs. This prompts Paul to feel responsible since Father Soplido was only at the hospital to pray over him and for his healing. As if Paul didn’t currently have enough problematic situations to deal with, his grandson Mikey then gets suspended from college. Because Mikey’s father is overseas and unable to be reached, Paul drives to the college immediately to assist his grandson however he can. Amidst all of this, Paul also discovers that an old classmate of his named Derek Braynard has been holding a grudge against him for the past 50 years, which presents itself on more than one occasion before the story concludes. While Paul was certainly not expecting any of these events to kick off his retirement, they all show him what he is capable of, as well as enlighten him to the strong support system that he has present in his life.
Shep has created characters that are easily relatable and just as easy to love and root for throughout the course of the story. While the unexpected events kept happening to Paul, I found myself really feeling sorry for the man. He had worked diligently as a journalist for 45 years to provide for his family, and now all he wanted to do was quietly retire so he could spend time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Yet, it seemed like retirement was an elusive dream that kept slipping away from him as the story progressed. Just as easily as it was to develop a fondness for Paul, Shep did a superb job of developing Derek’s character to ensure that readers would detest this man. Derek was malicious, vindictive, angry and jealous.
Quill says: Shep has authored a unique and fascinating novel with The December Issue. On its surface, it is the story of one man’s journey to retirement, but upon closer reflection, this book is about so much more. It is the story of friendship, family, perseverance, honor, humility, love, and finding joy in the everyday.
Paul Scrivensby worked as a columnist for the magazine "The Current Front" for 45 years. Shep’s story opens with Paul having completed his second to last column, eagerly looking forward to leisurely days of retirement and spending time with his wife, three children, and grandchildren. However, the first indication that retirement is not going to come as easily as he expected is when Paul’s editor-in-chief, Stephen, presents Paul with two filled, heaping mailbags of letters all written in response to Paul’s latest column. Paul mistakenly assumes the letters are fond farewells, when in fact, many of the letters are quite critical of Paul’s column written on the decline of class. Stephen presents Paul with an option to rewrite his final column, to be printed in the December issue, as an apology to anyone he may have inadvertently offended. Paul, while somewhat aghast that Stephen is even asking this of him, simply tells Stephen that he will consider it.
Paul then heads home to Saint Catherine’s Cove to be with his family, and this is where more events transpire that Paul never could have expected or predicted. Lucretia, an old friend of Paul’s, suffers a heart attack and while driving to the hospital to visit her, Paul and his friend Oliver are in a car accident. Paul and Oliver walk away with minor injuries, leaving Paul to wear a sling on his arm for bone contusions. At a press conference held at the hospital, a journalist named Ted Handly creates controversy by referring to Paul’s priest, Father Soplido, using derogatory, ethnic slurs. This prompts Paul to feel responsible since Father Soplido was only at the hospital to pray over him and for his healing. As if Paul didn’t currently have enough problematic situations to deal with, his grandson Mikey then gets suspended from college. Because Mikey’s father is overseas and unable to be reached, Paul drives to the college immediately to assist his grandson however he can. Amidst all of this, Paul also discovers that an old classmate of his named Derek Braynard has been holding a grudge against him for the past 50 years, which presents itself on more than one occasion before the story concludes. While Paul was certainly not expecting any of these events to kick off his retirement, they all show him what he is capable of, as well as enlighten him to the strong support system that he has present in his life.
Shep has created characters that are easily relatable and just as easy to love and root for throughout the course of the story. While the unexpected events kept happening to Paul, I found myself really feeling sorry for the man. He had worked diligently as a journalist for 45 years to provide for his family, and now all he wanted to do was quietly retire so he could spend time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Yet, it seemed like retirement was an elusive dream that kept slipping away from him as the story progressed. Just as easily as it was to develop a fondness for Paul, Shep did a superb job of developing Derek’s character to ensure that readers would detest this man. Derek was malicious, vindictive, angry and jealous.
Quill says: Shep has authored a unique and fascinating novel with The December Issue. On its surface, it is the story of one man’s journey to retirement, but upon closer reflection, this book is about so much more. It is the story of friendship, family, perseverance, honor, humility, love, and finding joy in the everyday.
April 30, 2025
The December Issue is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that captures the bittersweet emotions of approaching retirement and the unexpected twists life can throw just when you think you’ve got it all figured out. Paul Scrivensby is a character you can’t help but root for—witty, reflective, and wonderfully human. His journey from planning a peaceful retirement to being swept into controversy and self-discovery is both heartfelt and thought-provoking.
The writing is rich and imaginative, with a warmth that draws you in from the very first chapter. The story isn’t just about aging or retirement—it’s about purpose, reinvention, and the courage to face change head-on. With humor, insight, and emotional depth, The December Issue reminds us that life’s most meaningful chapters can begin just when we least expect them.
A must-read for anyone who loves character-driven stories with heart, wisdom, and a touch of humor. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it.
The writing is rich and imaginative, with a warmth that draws you in from the very first chapter. The story isn’t just about aging or retirement—it’s about purpose, reinvention, and the courage to face change head-on. With humor, insight, and emotional depth, The December Issue reminds us that life’s most meaningful chapters can begin just when we least expect them.
A must-read for anyone who loves character-driven stories with heart, wisdom, and a touch of humor. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it.
January 12, 2025
Wow! Wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. Now it's one of my favorite books. I think it was how the plot progressed in three parts that I really enjoyed. Every time I wondered where it could go, a new development launched an intriguing branch of the story. Add that to characters I came to like, and you've got the makings of a great book. Also, lots of food for thought. I have to say this was an awesome book.
December 8, 2025
Mr. Shep's "December Issue" is a puissant display of literary strength, where his perspicacity crafts a narrative of profound emotional resonance, exemplifying artistic talent through determination; its unflinching thematic exploration and Shep's inherent probity foster a thought-provoking and moving experience, leaving an indelible mark that renders this a must-read, enriching perspectives and inspiring awe.
April 23, 2026
Easing into retirement is not easy, Paul (and I!) discover! A humorous and thoughtful novel where parents, grown children, grandchildren, and their lifelong friends are authentic, their questions are meaningful, and their discoveries are both a surprise and a joy. "The December Issue" is unabashedly spiritual without being preachy. Reminds me of that Bible verse, something along the lines of "faith, hope, and love, but the greatest of these is love." Yes.
November 12, 2024
I absolutely loved the vibrant characters and relatable themes in this story! The author has a knack for bringing scenes to life through meaningful dialogue between memorable people, and he doesn't shy away from tough topics. An enjoyable read!
April 30, 2025
Bòn weekend
May 1, 2025
The author's imaginative and thought provoking. This contemporary piece offers a positive perspective and insight into human interaction. “I choose not to be offended.” That statement speaks volumes especially in today’s culture where many people appear to be easily offended and bothered. There are several mental wellness themes that are quickly addressed throughout the story. The novel flows smoothly even though the main character is hit with one interruption after another. What he imagined his retirement would be like is not at all what life had in store for him.
This novel was won through a Goodreads Giveaway.
This novel was won through a Goodreads Giveaway.
February 15, 2025
This book evoked the reality of living in a lakeside town, something I know about. It's charm and presentation without being obnoxious or saccharine asbout setting made me appreciate my own dwellings and community more. The Lake Superior setting, lighthouse, and community were a highlight and more than a backdrop in this novel, but the discussions and conflicts presented were the real Page turners. Oliver sticking up for Paul over theater etiquette, Claribel not budging from her stance despite another female,s push to form an alliance, Paul's response to someone holding a grudge... it just kept coming and making any reader think, weigh in on the topic, and keep reading to see where it went. The discussions were timely, some playful and some serious, but all of them somehow real. I loved the characters young and old, I felt for Paul and even Claribel, and I enjoyed the plot that advanced amid these great mini conflicts and discussions. And I loved the lake! It all came together nicely for a really, really good story!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews