Sixty Magnificent Years

by Mark Lages

Joey Ford is about to die. He isn’t famous, or rich, or remarkably talented, but like all of us his life is rich with experiences. Before he dies he puts his sixty years of living down on paper in a remarkable montage of memories and ruminations. He claims to have discovered the meaning of life, but has he? And what can we learn from this inspirational self-portrait? This refreshingly original book is an entertaining leap into the heart and soul of a modern man. Hopefully you come away embracing your birth, death, and every magnificent moment in between.

Genres: Fiction

340 pages, Paperback

Published August 4, 2017

About the author

Quickly...I was born and raised in California, but now live in South Carolina with my wife and our animals. I am neither a liberal nor a conservative. In fact, I despise politics. I think of myself as an artist, and not as a journalist. I've been influenced by Milton Friedman, Frank Lloyd Wright, Hunter S Thompson, Douglas Adams, Salvador Dali, MC Escher, JS Bach, Keith Jarrett, Vincent Price, Tom Waits, and many others. I like to smoke cigars and drink lots of coffee. And I do love to write. Lock me in a room with a box of cigars, a coffee maker, and a computer, and I will do just fine. Click here to leap to my website for more info about me and my books.

Reviews

[Olivia "So many books--so little time."" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly entertaining story of a man who lived exactly 60 years. This book is amazing. Copy obtained from author.

[Beagle Lover (Avid Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sixty Magnificent Years

A very sound 4 stars!

I cannot state enough wonderful items about this book. Mr. Lages has delivered an absolutely remarkable book based on a transcript he received from an unknown man who wrote the story of his life during his last year on earth. The remarkable manner in which the author paces the book; not writing the man's life in order of birth to death, but from various important stages of his life that are all related to one another. Mr. Lages excellently shows us Joey's life with infrequent "author's notes" that clarify certain chapters or plot points, which I found very helpful in understanding Joey's possible meanings and actions as he recollected them.

However, if you are looking for a book with the proverbial "happy ending," do not expect one in this novel. The ending made this reader feel extremely sad, nearly to the point of tears. I was that invested in Joey's life thanks to the author. This is a must read book that will turn your emotions inside out and back again. Excellent work, Mr. Lages.

[Diane Haney · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I have said in previous reviews, I find Mr. Lages to be a very creative writer with a unique style. I loved Team Charlie and My Remarkable Little Monkey. This book not so much. I gave 4 stars just for Mr. Lages' talent.
The story is an attempt to show the meaning of life as demonstrated by the experiences and musings of Joey Ford...every man ...or is he? Like most of us he does things he's ashamed of and relates many instances when he should have done something, but didn't. As in previous books, he struggles with the Christian concept of "thou shall not kill" while celebrating killing under various situations. Ie war or death row criminals. His life experiences are true as he sees them, but his editor, who frequently comments on Joey's stories isn't sure they are true as others would see them. To me each chapter was a stand alone story rather than a cohesive story of Joey's life. His wife and son never became real people to me. I have never appreciated the technique of moving back and forth through time. Several stories were hard to read and haunted me. I am an animal lover and the Snowball episode, the stray dog story and the cruel habits of one of his childhood friends were disturbing to me and I question why they were necessary to the story. The ending did not bother me other than to question why? Did Joey solve the mystery of life? He thought so.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joseph “Joey” Edgar Ford doesn’t have long to live.
Journey with Joey as he narrates his life (ups/downs), as well as the family: wife & son.
I found some of the stuff in this book that made me very upset.

As a retired crisis/school social worker I never had a whole lot of use for psychologist anyway! Now
I am more convinced of my biased opinion of them.

Warning: This book is for adults only & contains extreme violent or graphic adult content or profanity &/or sexually explicit scenarios. It may be offensive to some readers.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written drama book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great drama movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Not real sure I grasped the whole story content on this 1, so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.

Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; authorhouse; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed several books by Mark Lages. He has a way with words that causes me to feel I am inside his (the character's)mind. Being in the same age group, I usually have much to relate to. For writing alone I would have given 5 stars. However, "Sixty Magnificent Years", though well written, was not a story I enjoyed. I was glad the dozens of chapters read as stand-alone stories, so that I could enjoy one, be done with another, be angry, or sad at another. The title did not represent the man's life IMHO. The ending was expected and disappointing. Thus the 'three star' rating.
The book was a gift from the author.

[Debby Carr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. The book is comprised of several short stories telling the life story of Joey Ford, a sixty year old man who is about to die. This is the first book I've read by Mark Lages. The book interested me and kept my attention in the beginning, however, the more I read the more I found it to drag and I lost interest. Would not be on my "Must Read" list.

[Andrew Langert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to Mark for gifting me a copy of this book. A big fan, I have read 15 of Mark’s books previously.
But I don’t know about this one. Published in 2017, it still features his incomparable storytelling ability. Maybe if I evaluated this as a series of short stories, I would rate it better. But I kept looking for the stories to come together to pronounce some uplifting theme.
The book is about Joey Ford, a pretty ordinary guy. His life story is told through random, non-sequential anecdotes from his youth and then his years as first an architect, then a psychologist and finally as, yes, a gas station attendant.
A lot of the stories made me laugh, but others made me squirm. All captured my attention. Never was there a dull moment.
But the conclusion was confusing and disappointing, leaving me with a sour taste in my mouth. Maybe he wrote one chapter too many. At the end of the penultimate chapter, Joey says: “I’ve learned happiness isn’t getting what you hope for; it’s being content with the treasures and gifts you have been given.” I would have liked the book a lot more if it ended there. But another chapter followed which took the book down a couple notches.

[Susan Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is possibly my least favorite book by this author, but I did like reading most of it so I am giving it four stars. I'm just not sure that I liked the protagonist. There were a couple of chapters that revealed a somewhat undesirable side to Joey's character. I know that we all probably have some memories that we wish we could erase and some incidents in our past that we wish we hadn't precipitated or taken part in, but possibly not as bad as what Joey may have done to Mr. Peanut. That said, this is a honest portrayal of a man facing the end of his life, a man who never claims to be a saint, but one who is an everyday man who lived an ordinary life.....and there are certainly enough redeeming aspects to Joey's personality. Accepting the book for what it is, a nonlinear journey of Joey's life, could mean the difference between hating and loving the book. The individual chapters are built around experiences in Joey's life that evoked emotions such as fear, love, courage or disappointment.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think it was likely to happen, but I think I liked this book even more than I liked Church of the Divine Duck... This one was more immediately relateable, and I just loved the format. It was a series of short stories about Joey's life, and kind of felt like journal entries, which I really liked. These stories were not in chronological order, and as you might guess, each could stand on its own. So, this book is great for reading a little bit at a time. I read much of it in between study sessions. It let you know what was important to this person (even though he wasn't real), without any of the boring stuff of a biography.
Like all of Lages' stories, this book broached a topic that we don't normally talk about. I'm not going to spoil the ending, but the book kind of did in the middle of it... Which was fine. Actually, it made perfect sense since it was a journal-type format (in my journal, I know I do sometimes talk about things that I know or hope will happen). And, since it's one of the more controversial topics of today, I that this foreshadowing was good, since it helped me come to terms with the ending before I even got there. Don't get me wrong, it was still sad... But I liked that, too. You could tell the story was winding down. It got both sadder and happier at the same time, which was unique and fantastic. This was definitely the most emotional story I've read from Lages; I almost cried at the end (even though I agree, it was "happy"), and I'm sure many others who have read it did cry.
However, I'm not quite sure how I feel about the last Editor's Note... I see why Lages included it. But I also think the ending might have been more powerful without it. I've thought about how it would be with an Editor's Note about the final chapter preceding the the final chapter, but I'm not sure if that would be better. Certainly, it couldn't be the same note. Or maybe it could, and it could just start the book. As I said, I'm not sure how I feel about that section. Either way, this book is a lot to think about. Lages has impressed me once again, and I still can't recommend his stories enough.

[Ophelia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this book in a giveaway in exchange for an honest review. To the point: I hate to say it, but I didn’t like it. I was expecting something profound and inspirational, and Sixty Magnificent Years didn’t deliver. It wasn’t a horrible book, but it wasn’t great either. Meh.

[Lisa DeWaard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been fortunate enough to read many books by Mark Lages and he has quickly become a favorite of mine. This book is no exception. It's a wonderful story about the life of Joey Ford and his reflections and memories now that he has found out he's going to die. I really like the writing style in this book. It's almost like a series of anecdotes and short stories or even journal entries that could stand on their own. I enjoy learning about Joey as well as his wife Cheryl and their son Harlan. I like how the stories aren't in chronological order. It reminds me of my favorite television show This Is Us. As a whole, I really enjoyed the story. There were parts of it that were hard to read, but I was warned about that when I received the book and won't give away anything. It's worth reading and another triumph for the author.

[Wendy Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joey is dying and I doesn't have long, so he decides to write his memories down on paper for all to peruse. He never goes to the next chapter until the person who he is writing about has approved the chapter regarding them.
He writes about his own life experiences. He feels that drug addiction is not a disease and neither is alcoholism. He really lets his feelings be known regarding the two things. However, he has depression and that is a true disorder. His wife is the epitome of good mental health.
Joey is inspirational and motivated to achieve his dreams of success.
You will learn that your past does define you but so does your present. Both are very important to you and your future..
You will be left with a strong desire to debate yet you may wish to write your own book about you.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm just not sure how to review this book.
On one hand I enjoyed the beginning but it started going dark in the later parts of the book.
I felt like there was something missing to make the main character start out on one level but end up on life's darkest level.
On the other hand I thought the authors explanation of how the book came about at the beginning was quite different and interesting and the book itself really made you think about the conclusion.
I kind of understand how the main character made his final decision, but I also don't understand quite why.
That's what makes it difficult to review, you are very conflicted at the end.
Either way, it was a very thought provoking read that sticks in your mind after reading it.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book free and I was asked to review once finished. Let’s just say this book will stick with me for quite awhile. I enjoyed the writing style and the interjections by the editor. Speaking about the editor, it was no coincidence how he came into possession of the manuscript and that is another story contained in the book. It made me laugh, it upset me, it certainly kept my interest. Joey is the main character, then there is his wife Cheryl, and their son Harlan. I also am very glad Joey’s wife didn’t live to read his book. It would have upset her terribly I think. I hope the son Harlan understands how much he disappointed his father, another story in the book. I am going to look for more books from this same author.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a truly magnificent story! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading this book, but from the very first pages I was hooked. This is a story about a man’s experiences if life that moves a hundred miles an hour, and then just stops. Does it crash and burn? No! Does it have a happy ending? I’m still not sure. In a way, it’s like a work of art. Lages paints an irresistibly honest portrait of his main character, and then sets the canvass on fire. Somehow as we watch it burn, we see the beauty where there should be horror. I absolutely loved this story! I’ve read other books by Mark Lages, and this is definitely my favorite.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the style of a journal, this is the story of Joey Ford from the beginning of his life to the final day of his journey. Mark Lages always catches you up in his stories - they are original and thought provoking and make it difficult to put the book down. From the first sentence you are taken hostage and held until the very last word. The ending of this book is controversial but I didn't find it surprising. I really suspected how it would end about three quarters of the way through the book.
I want to thank the author for sending me a copy of the book. I certainly enjoyed it and would recommend it.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must first thank the Author, Mark Lages for the opportunity to read, Sixty Magnificent Years.
Having just completed the book, I am having difficulty putting my thoughts to words and maybe that is where the review begins. As I begin to write it seems there is much to consider, ponder and weigh as I think about the collection of tidbits/recollections/experiences presented in this book. For me at age 60+ years, I can place myself in similiar life situations as Joey and am wondering how others would take to a written account of my life documented in this manner. While some may not agree, I personally found the book engaging, thought provoking and a read that will keep me thinking for some time to come. Recommended reading. 4.5 stars

[Johnette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was different. I enjoyed it. I was a little confused about why the story wasn't told in chronological order, but in the grand scheme of things, it probably didn't matter. The book made me think, which, I suspect was what it was supposed to do. It made me ponder about happy endings, or what constitutes a happy ending and for who. I get how it is a happy ending for the character and don't disagree with that. My thoughts turned to the other characters in the book, family members. I wonder if they see the ending as happy and if one person's happy ending has the right to affect other people, who may not see it from the same perspective. This would be a good book for a discussion group.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed several books by Mark Lages. This book is written in lots of little chapters and is about a man, Joey Ford, and his life experiences over 60 years. The experiences are written as he sees them, but his editor, who frequently comments on Joey's stories isn't sure they are true as others would see them. One of the stories was hard to read and I didn’t feel like it was necessary, but most of them were thought provoking and made you want to keep reading to see what he did next. The ending of the book didn’t surprise me and some may find the ending controversial . . . but I suspect it was meant to be provocative. I certainly enjoyed it and would recommend it.

[Skip Worrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joseph Edgar “Joey” Ford wants to reveal to us “the meaning of life” before he dies. He does this by relating his life in a series of vignettes which, when taken together, give us a portrait of an intriguing, flawed and very human character.

Structurally, Lages uses a mainly non-linear approach to his narrative. Several chapters end with a “Wait…what!?” moment which is then explained or expanded upon in a later (but chronologically earlier) chapter. This structure keeps the reader actively engaged in a way that linear storytelling wouldn’t.

The chapter that brought it all together for me, and presaged the ending, was “My Richard Cory”. This poem by Edwin Arlington Robinson has been a favorite of mine since I first studied Robinson’s poetry in high school. In addition to the thematic similarity, Lages’s prose exhibits an economy that tends to resemble Robinson’s poetry. Lages’s sentences are thoughtfully constructed so as to keep the reader involved with no, or very few, superfluous words.

The ending is never fully explained, but we know that it must have taken Joey weeks, if not months to compile the manuscript, so one assumes that he anticipated and planned the end for at least that long. It wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. The editor states that when finally compiled, the book exceeded a thousand pages. It apparently was written haphazardly, as the box delivered to the editor contained “a stack of paper in all colors, sizes and types”, written on “[I]n some cases. . . paper towels and cocktail napkins.” One is left wondering “why?”, but I think that is part of the intrigue. I would much rather end a book with unanswered questions to ponder rather than have everything tied up neatly.

Finally, did I enjoy it? In a word “yes” (in three words, “yes, very much”). I found it at once uplifting, disturbing, compelling, annoying and ultimately satisfying and thought-provoking. Highly recommended.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! What an interesting book, that is fast paced and takes you through a mans life from beginning to the "end", and at times is a little hard to read. Mark Lages did a great job on this book and I am still wondering if it was a happy ending or or?? I may just have to go back and read it again. I also have to say that all the other 4+ star reviews are all spot on! I look forward to reading other works by Mark Lages. I won this great book on GoodReads and I will be adding this one to my library so I can read it again and again.

[Lorna Gundaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a gift from the author and I am grateful for it. I was quickly hooked into the “autobiography “ of sixty year old Joey, who just happens to be facing death. Through journalistic entries and in stand alone, short story-like chapters, Joey reveals his life, with all its folly and foibles. He reveals his disappointing relationships with his wife and son. The ending is surprising but not shocking as there has been foreshadowing. This is a thoroughly enjoyable book and I recommend it. This author does not disappoint.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from Goodreads for my honest review. The story is told by Joey Ford as small vignettes from his life experiences. My first thought was, due to the title, this would be a very upbeat story. In actuality, just like life, the story is filled with both ups and downs. Some moments were uplifting, others were upsetting. Lages is an excellent storyteller - very well written, I was unable to put the book down. I recommend this to anyone who would like to read a deeper, more philosophical story that goes beyond the mundane.

[Michael Dobrolski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book entertained throughout. I base a book on how fast I read it and this book was excellent. I don't claim to be a book critic, I'm just an average guy who loves to read and this book did it's job. Mark's style of writing is refreshing and thought provoking. The ending was different and it left me wanting more. I enjoy stories about people lives even if it is made up. Give this book a try, I'm glad I did.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this free book that was sent to me from the author. The story was presented in a very unique way as if it were written by another person and edited by the author. The characters in the book are interesting and realistic and draw the reader in to where they can actually relate to their lives. Some aspects of the book are sad and there are also joyous moments. This is so very true of real life. I think that it is a very good book and I would certainly recommend it.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful telling of a 60 year olds recollection of his life. Filled with ups and downs as well as some incredible tales. Touched at many things in my life as well as things that filled my childhood. You will love how the author has told Joey Ford's story. Joey led a very full interesting life which will make you think and reflect on your own. I enjoy Mark Lages' writing and I think this is best work. I think you will enjoy this story a lot!

[Lisa Paradis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read, though I do feel a couple of chapters could have been left out. If you are an animal lover, please skip over any chapter that mentions an animal. I have to agree with Joey's son, that this book is actually a very long suicide note. Is it a happy ending? I guess Joey thought so.

[Leslie Kroger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing!!

While this book was nothing like I thought it would be, it wasn't about someone famous or someone who did anything miraculous it was without a doubt one of the best reads I have had so far. It has a unique way of looking at both life and death and makes you rethink how you look at things. Thank you Joey Ford for sharing your wonderful life with me!

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable story about a not so remarkable life, and I don't mean that in a bad way. This book captures amazingly the memories and stories of the main character even though he is just a normal person. The stories he tells make you laugh, cry, and feel for all the characters involved. I enjoyed this book more than I can even explain. Such a beautiful and easy read.

[Mark Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced, provocative, and very entertaining race through a man's life that left me breathless. I'm sure some people will have a hard time with the ending, but I liked it a lot. I thought it was thoughtful and inspiring.