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Beacon City Confidential
The star reporter for the Beacon City Beam has a knack for showing up in the right places at the most opportune moments and a newsman’s flair for detecting a droplet of drama in a sea of dross and dregs. Accompany him on his nose-poking adventures, jot by jot, scribble by scribble—from his relentless search for an enigmatic fortune cookie to his visit to the Sociopaths Anonymous® weekly meeting to his bizarre correspondence with a pen-pal who claims to be the Devil.
Beacon City Confidential offers a mole’s-eye view of American urban mythology run amok. Petty crimes and deceits, daily dissatisfactions and squabbles, puny triumphs inflated like hot-air balloons. Like our reporter’s notebook, the pages are crowded with events and outcomes, brimming with entertaining villains trying to survive the 21st Century by any means necessary. Less visibly, the real heroes, the joe-schmoes and who’s-thats, threaten to make their own stand, clamoring for their stake in the American dream and a taste of its pie.
Beacon City Confidential offers a mole’s-eye view of American urban mythology run amok. Petty crimes and deceits, daily dissatisfactions and squabbles, puny triumphs inflated like hot-air balloons. Like our reporter’s notebook, the pages are crowded with events and outcomes, brimming with entertaining villains trying to survive the 21st Century by any means necessary. Less visibly, the real heroes, the joe-schmoes and who’s-thats, threaten to make their own stand, clamoring for their stake in the American dream and a taste of its pie.
ebook
Published January 15, 2020
11 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Lawrence Jay Switzer
11 books36 followersLawrence Jay Switzer, designer of the illustrated Walt Whitman Series and The New Knickerbocker Quarterly, has been publishing his own works of fiction since 2019. In the tradition of The Canterbury Tales, Sayville Tales is comprised of tales and trifles told by modern-day passengers (including two ghosts and the Devil) while sharing a railroad journey. His latest novel,
Beacon City Confidential,
is a fun-house view of urban mythology run amok in a fictional American city. Both books have been met with critical acclaim.
~~~ KINDLE & PRINT EDITIONS OF BEACON CITY CONFIDENTIAL ~~~
~~~ KINDLE & PRINT EDITIONS OF SAYVILLE TALES ~~~
~~~ SPECIAL ILLUSTRATED KINDLE EDITION OF SAYVILLE TALES ~~~
~~~ KINDLE & PRINT EDITIONS OF BEACON CITY CONFIDENTIAL ~~~
~~~ KINDLE & PRINT EDITIONS OF SAYVILLE TALES ~~~
~~~ SPECIAL ILLUSTRATED KINDLE EDITION OF SAYVILLE TALES ~~~
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 5, 2020
Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I've ever read, and considering I'm an avid reader, there's a lot to choose from. As always, Switzer uses his deft way with words and cutting sense of humour to create a work of genius. This collection of short anecdotes, memorabilia and random facts is woven together with unimaginable skill to become a holistic piece that is both humorous and thought-provoking. This is, undoubtedly, a work of fiction detailing "Americana" in all its sordid glory. A most enjoyable read!
February 12, 2020
Love the irony!
I’m a huge fan of satire and irony, with a dash of humor. I loved the Chicago mailbox. I couldn’t stop laughing at the ingenious of the writer’s satire throughout the whole read. Very good and captivating. It was liking watching Dr. Strangelove for the first time and wanting to watch again to pick up all the missed nuances!
I’m a huge fan of satire and irony, with a dash of humor. I loved the Chicago mailbox. I couldn’t stop laughing at the ingenious of the writer’s satire throughout the whole read. Very good and captivating. It was liking watching Dr. Strangelove for the first time and wanting to watch again to pick up all the missed nuances!
February 4, 2020
I find it challenging to describe Beacon City Confidential – just as I did Switzer's Sayville Tales. But this isn't a bad thing – on the contrary. Reading this book is like finding an old chest behind a rocking chair in your grandparents' attic, opening it only to find it full to the brim with the most wonderful trinkets, objet d'art, ancient medals, and other curios, each one with its own fascinating story that is somehow connected to all the others. Rich with delicious characters like Provost Blank and Mr and Mrs Laderman, Beacon City Confidential is a funny, stimulating and skilfully written novel by a writer who is quickly becoming one of my favourites.
August 7, 2020
Absurd and entertaining
As if I were a tourist in Beacon City, Switzer guided me through many stories about this fictional town and it's exagerrated characters that might, in a milder form, hit every prejudice that pervades any city anywhere in the world.
Each character is well defined from what they wear to how they feel. Their relationships with one another are equally clear and interesting. I believe this literary masterpiece will be around for generations.
As if I were a tourist in Beacon City, Switzer guided me through many stories about this fictional town and it's exagerrated characters that might, in a milder form, hit every prejudice that pervades any city anywhere in the world.
Each character is well defined from what they wear to how they feel. Their relationships with one another are equally clear and interesting. I believe this literary masterpiece will be around for generations.
August 28, 2020
Such an imagination and gifted way with words
Wow! I'm in awe of this author's mind, creativity, and writing style. If I had to describe it, it's like "Where's Waldo?" in words. There's so much visualization and imaginative description, so much activity going on, so much life, so much detail that it has to be real--yet there's no way! (A lighthouse in the desert??) It's satirical in every sense of the word. Excellent!
Wow! I'm in awe of this author's mind, creativity, and writing style. If I had to describe it, it's like "Where's Waldo?" in words. There's so much visualization and imaginative description, so much activity going on, so much life, so much detail that it has to be real--yet there's no way! (A lighthouse in the desert??) It's satirical in every sense of the word. Excellent!
March 29, 2020
"Beacon City Confidential," by Lawrence Jay Switzer, is an excellent satire on our troublesome, chaotic social environment, where the unfortunate events spin around a fortune cookie. It is not only a witty story, it is also an outstanding artwork. An absolutely brilliant read!
July 26, 2020
Funny and thoughtful
A brilliant reminder not to take ourselves too seriously. I thoroughly enjoyed this satirical look at small town reinvention. Highly recommend.
A brilliant reminder not to take ourselves too seriously. I thoroughly enjoyed this satirical look at small town reinvention. Highly recommend.
March 3, 2020
Beacon City Confidential is a lot things but confidential isn’t one of them. Everyone knows everyone or at least they seem to know everyone and everyone knows most of everyone else’s business. This book is a college of short stories and snippets of everyday life in Beacon City threaded so expertly and intricately together that you don’t realize that you have been caught inside the city limits. There is no escape. So just sit back and enjoy your visit. But pay attention... a story may just pick up where it left off a few pages back. Who knows? You just may find a piece of the American pie or, at the very least, a shoe. Don’t be surprised when you “meet” the Devil. I first met the Devil in Switzer’s Sayville Tales so when he popped himself into this book with a cameo appearance, I was a more pleased than surprised.
The book flows well from story to story without missing a step. My favorites? The fake fire hydrant and the feud between Little India and Little Germany. Then there was the one about a Chicago Mailbag. I had no idea what that was but by the end I knew. I didn’t have to Google it.
The characters are many and all are colorful. The Wongs, owners of the Goobledgook Chinese Restaurant are a mainstay in Beacon City. Don Bosca of Little Italy is a man who gets things done if you know what I mean. Provost Blank is the star reporter for the Beacon City Beam with a nose for news. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time. There is no cliff hanger; but Provy was last seen chasing something or someone.
Beacon City Confidential is a hodge podge of everything I love...memorable characters, a delightful story of a life in a bizarre city filled with humor, insight, satire, irony, absurdity and truth. Well, at least Beacon City’s view of truth.
I turned every single page, drinking in everything thing I saw and what I thought I saw. This isn’t just a book...it is art. Art, to make one think its merely just a book. The well thought out and executed details boggles the mind and delights the eye... Here’s to the author and artist!
The book flows well from story to story without missing a step. My favorites? The fake fire hydrant and the feud between Little India and Little Germany. Then there was the one about a Chicago Mailbag. I had no idea what that was but by the end I knew. I didn’t have to Google it.
The characters are many and all are colorful. The Wongs, owners of the Goobledgook Chinese Restaurant are a mainstay in Beacon City. Don Bosca of Little Italy is a man who gets things done if you know what I mean. Provost Blank is the star reporter for the Beacon City Beam with a nose for news. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time. There is no cliff hanger; but Provy was last seen chasing something or someone.
Beacon City Confidential is a hodge podge of everything I love...memorable characters, a delightful story of a life in a bizarre city filled with humor, insight, satire, irony, absurdity and truth. Well, at least Beacon City’s view of truth.
I turned every single page, drinking in everything thing I saw and what I thought I saw. This isn’t just a book...it is art. Art, to make one think its merely just a book. The well thought out and executed details boggles the mind and delights the eye... Here’s to the author and artist!
March 8, 2020
A bowl of fruit loops and cheerios with plenty of milk! What a truly unique and enjoyable story or rather tidbits of information compiled into a conglomeration of odds and ends. Well put together and narrated. Full of surprises and plenty of humorous antidotes or as the author might say auntie Dot's. What can I say about this but that you need to read it!
November 8, 2020
This is a superior satire. It is full of biting commentary and wry humor on the American experience, whether actually speaking about business wars fought with farting customers and airplane engine exhaust, or detailing the love-life of two girls born as two heads on the same body, it grabs at the puffed-up self-importance of ordinary people and rips it apart from the basic humanity overcoming misfortune that hides underneath. It is a very well-written novel that is unique. I can't really think of any other book like it, though it reminds me of Mark Twain's commentary on innocents traveling abroad or Kurt Vonnegut's skewering of the pomposity of ordinary car salesmen who think they can speak directly to God. It is a book worth reading. It will make you laugh... unless you are dead already or something.
September 9, 2020
Charming, beguiling and peculiar
Beacon City Confidential is an odd book. If you are looking for a straight-ahead narrative with a clear plot and an easy to articulate meaning, you should probably look somewhere else. If, on the other hand, you don’t mind a story that wanders around, reveling in the quirky scenery and stranger events of an imagined American city while hinting at half-glimpsed truths, you might really enjoy this strange gem.
There are some laugh-out-loud moments here, but by and large, the tone tends more wry and sophisticated, requiring some perseverance and untangling to enjoy.
While I enjoyed it, I would have liked a bit more buttoning up and a few more clear-cut answers to some of the mysteries and implications.
Beacon City Confidential is an odd book. If you are looking for a straight-ahead narrative with a clear plot and an easy to articulate meaning, you should probably look somewhere else. If, on the other hand, you don’t mind a story that wanders around, reveling in the quirky scenery and stranger events of an imagined American city while hinting at half-glimpsed truths, you might really enjoy this strange gem.
There are some laugh-out-loud moments here, but by and large, the tone tends more wry and sophisticated, requiring some perseverance and untangling to enjoy.
While I enjoyed it, I would have liked a bit more buttoning up and a few more clear-cut answers to some of the mysteries and implications.
April 21, 2020
A Delightfully Absurd Psychedelic Masterpiece:
It is difficult to put into words how outstanding I found this piece of literature. Beacon City Confidential covers a lot of ground. You’ll visit places you thought could only exist in your dreams. And meet characters akin to those in Ripley’s Believe it or Not.
However, these people and places come together to paint an abstract picture of a real place, with real cultural dynamics. This book will make you laugh, cry, wonder, and then laugh again. I particularly loved the chapters about an usually named Chinese restaurant and a business feud involving a giant fan. As well as reading about the misadventures of (one or two?) co-jointed twins, a stink bomb investigation, and a little boy named Gookypuss (and his beloved dog).
This book reminded me of what I love so much about the Studio Ghibli films. The only thing you can be sure of is beautifully crafted and delightfully absurd storytelling that is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
A trip to Beacon City is absolutely worth the admission price. The only problem is that once you get there, you may never want to come back.
It is difficult to put into words how outstanding I found this piece of literature. Beacon City Confidential covers a lot of ground. You’ll visit places you thought could only exist in your dreams. And meet characters akin to those in Ripley’s Believe it or Not.
However, these people and places come together to paint an abstract picture of a real place, with real cultural dynamics. This book will make you laugh, cry, wonder, and then laugh again. I particularly loved the chapters about an usually named Chinese restaurant and a business feud involving a giant fan. As well as reading about the misadventures of (one or two?) co-jointed twins, a stink bomb investigation, and a little boy named Gookypuss (and his beloved dog).
This book reminded me of what I love so much about the Studio Ghibli films. The only thing you can be sure of is beautifully crafted and delightfully absurd storytelling that is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
A trip to Beacon City is absolutely worth the admission price. The only problem is that once you get there, you may never want to come back.
February 5, 2021
Switzer takes the reader through the streets of his fictional Beacon City, dominated by its lighthouse. If you like irony, satire and witty humour, this is a tour you should take.
Through the eyes of its absurd characters and excerpt from the local newspaper - the "Beacon City Confidential - stories intersect and gradually create a tapestry that brings the place to life in a way that will have the reader accept all of the local customs, because by the time you find yourself there, it all makes sense.
Through entertaining tongue-in-cheek storytelling, Beacon City Confidential takes the pulse of society, because the story of Beacon City could be very well be the story of any city,
Through the eyes of its absurd characters and excerpt from the local newspaper - the "Beacon City Confidential - stories intersect and gradually create a tapestry that brings the place to life in a way that will have the reader accept all of the local customs, because by the time you find yourself there, it all makes sense.
Through entertaining tongue-in-cheek storytelling, Beacon City Confidential takes the pulse of society, because the story of Beacon City could be very well be the story of any city,
November 1, 2020
Hilarity Ensues via Fortune Cookies and Jet Engines....
In a few short opening paragraphs, Switzer manages to transplant the reader deep into the psyche of Beacon City. To help this cause is the interior of the print edition, filled with intricate design details and gorgeous renderings of the highlights of Beacon City. I truly believe if more books were designed like this, more people would enjoy the experience of reading. The author understands the contribution of imagery in just the right serving size to compliment the words on the page.
Switzer has once again created a planet (hopefully, in a universe to come) where things are not always as they seem, at times bordering on ridiculous in the best possible way, and at other times hitting suspiciously close to home. In Beacon City Confidential, you get a behind the scenes peek at what makes the residents tick, and the result is feeling like you have access to the details of a hilarious inside joke. Beacon City feels like a place where anything is possible — you never know what news the following day will bring.
I found myself wondering after only a few chapters if Beacon City was a reflection of America. Diverse, proud, and beholden to old traditions while also hoping for a brighter future. Each character displayed a robust personality, a type in their own respect. Joe, lost and confused with no choice but to go with the flow. Provy, seeking the truth within a good story. Ginko-Mae, the independent young woman wanting the best possible legacy for her family.
This is a masterfully told story of being part of a society where everything is fair game for a punchline. The wordplay, plot twists, and design elements will make you keep turning the pages to the very end and you will not be disappointed.
In a few short opening paragraphs, Switzer manages to transplant the reader deep into the psyche of Beacon City. To help this cause is the interior of the print edition, filled with intricate design details and gorgeous renderings of the highlights of Beacon City. I truly believe if more books were designed like this, more people would enjoy the experience of reading. The author understands the contribution of imagery in just the right serving size to compliment the words on the page.
Switzer has once again created a planet (hopefully, in a universe to come) where things are not always as they seem, at times bordering on ridiculous in the best possible way, and at other times hitting suspiciously close to home. In Beacon City Confidential, you get a behind the scenes peek at what makes the residents tick, and the result is feeling like you have access to the details of a hilarious inside joke. Beacon City feels like a place where anything is possible — you never know what news the following day will bring.
I found myself wondering after only a few chapters if Beacon City was a reflection of America. Diverse, proud, and beholden to old traditions while also hoping for a brighter future. Each character displayed a robust personality, a type in their own respect. Joe, lost and confused with no choice but to go with the flow. Provy, seeking the truth within a good story. Ginko-Mae, the independent young woman wanting the best possible legacy for her family.
This is a masterfully told story of being part of a society where everything is fair game for a punchline. The wordplay, plot twists, and design elements will make you keep turning the pages to the very end and you will not be disappointed.
August 7, 2022
Wow! I think I've found my next favourite indie author! Lawrence Jay Switzer has two books in my top reading recommendations now. I'm blown away by this man's literary genius.
Beacon City Confidential is a masterpiece detailing how events take on a life of their own because they never affect only one person. It is a subtle arc of event, reaction and consequence, just as the lighthouse beam of the city's landmark, The Pharos, revolves around itself illuminating the city and then casting it into darkness at regular intervals.
Add to that each character's reaction and it becomes a whirlwind of cause and effect. The domino effect of responses from all the many citizens of Beacon City sweeps the stage with their decisions and subsequent occurrences where each actor cannot possibly foresee the outcome.
All of this is presented in a collection of short anecdotes, memorabilia and random facts which are woven together with unimaginable skill, to become a holistic piece that is both humorous and thought-provoking. It is the miniature depicting the likeness of "Americana"--in all its sordid glory. As always, Switzer uses his deft way with words and cutting sense of humour to create a work of genius.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I've ever read.
Beacon City Confidential is a masterpiece detailing how events take on a life of their own because they never affect only one person. It is a subtle arc of event, reaction and consequence, just as the lighthouse beam of the city's landmark, The Pharos, revolves around itself illuminating the city and then casting it into darkness at regular intervals.
Add to that each character's reaction and it becomes a whirlwind of cause and effect. The domino effect of responses from all the many citizens of Beacon City sweeps the stage with their decisions and subsequent occurrences where each actor cannot possibly foresee the outcome.
All of this is presented in a collection of short anecdotes, memorabilia and random facts which are woven together with unimaginable skill, to become a holistic piece that is both humorous and thought-provoking. It is the miniature depicting the likeness of "Americana"--in all its sordid glory. As always, Switzer uses his deft way with words and cutting sense of humour to create a work of genius.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I've ever read.
December 5, 2020
A bowl of fruit loops and cheerios with plenty of milk! What a truly unique and enjoyable story or rather tidbits of information compiled into a conglomeration of odds and ends. Well put together and narrated. Full of surprises and plenty of humorous antidotes or as the author might say auntie Dot's. What can I say about this but that you need to read it!
June 16, 2021
Best Read in a Long While
I throughly enjoyed this hysterical nonsensical farcical book. I saw a one nan show off Broadway once that I was reminded of, and I wish I could remember the play. This book brought back great memories and put a big smile on my face. I will have to read it a few more times.
I throughly enjoyed this hysterical nonsensical farcical book. I saw a one nan show off Broadway once that I was reminded of, and I wish I could remember the play. This book brought back great memories and put a big smile on my face. I will have to read it a few more times.
November 28, 2020
A Beacon, alright
A city fraught with unique environs, citizens and birds. With short yet dense chapters, saucy verbiage and cool artwork, Mr. Switzer ‘s book keeps you embroiled and entertained.
A city fraught with unique environs, citizens and birds. With short yet dense chapters, saucy verbiage and cool artwork, Mr. Switzer ‘s book keeps you embroiled and entertained.
March 20, 2023
A wild Satirical ride
This was a fun satire but read it slowly. It moves and there is never a dull moment. If you pace yourself you will be rewarded with a great story!
This was a fun satire but read it slowly. It moves and there is never a dull moment. If you pace yourself you will be rewarded with a great story!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews