Pozzo

by Sophia Johnson

Pozzo is the story of a man who quite literally has to claw his way into existence, emerging from a cardboard box to take his place in a surreal world populated with drag queens and angel boys, a guardian bunny and a tutu-wearing poodle. Naked and newly formed, the godlike Pozzo is a blank canvas ready to be painted by whatever experiences he encounters.

So he goes about collecting experiences—wild, fantastical experiences. Working on a tugboat, becoming a disco dancer, being mistaken for an island god—all of these diversions lead him down knotted paths of self-discovery, paths that are illuminating, both for himself and for every colorful character he comes in contact with.

Like all good fantasies, Pozzo pushes beyond what is real to reveal what is true. Told, variously, in Shakespearean English, a Brooklyn accent, and song lyrics, it’s a rollicking saga that explores the absurdities—and the commonalities—that come with being human.

250 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2016

About the author

After our daughters were married and moved away, my husband and I retired. It didn't take long for the "empty nest" syndrome to strike. It took much longer before we did something about it, though. Fifteen years! We bought a little long-coat Chihuahua who became the terror of the neighborhood - even on a leash. When he was three years old and not even attmpting to be friendly with anyone other than my husband and me, we got him a companion. A tri-colored Papillon named Konner. He's a sweetheart and kisses everyone.

One day, our youngest grandson whispered in my ear, "Does Pop-Pop really think Jammie (the Chihuahua) is his baby?" I had to explain about us missing someone to take care of, so we cuddled the dogs when our grandchildren weren't around. After a big hug and kiss, he understood we needed someone or something to cuddle.

I love writing. One night, I dreamt that I couldn't anymore. You know what came to mind when I opened my eyes? I wouldn't be able to breathe life into the characters demanding their stories.

I think that's a little nutty, don't you? My characters become real to me, and when I'm writing, they tell me what they want to do, how they want to feel, what they will and will not allow. Cheez! Talk about bossy!