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An American Story
Welcome to An American Story. This will probably be different than books you’re accustomed to. This book has a beginning and an end, but you’ll also be constantly entertained by jugglers, clowns, singers, thespians, and sages. At times it may feel confusing and disjointed, but rest assured that every facet has been included for a reason. Nothing is arbitrary. In a nutshell, this story is about a man named Huey Baker. It is his story, and it is not meant to represent any specific sexual gender, economic class, race, religion, weight, hair color, or political persuasion. Huey is just one of 370 million citizens who was born and raised in America. So how does one read this novel? Expectations will only let you down, so don’t search for anything specific. Just pour a cup of coffee, keep an open mind, and enjoy the show.
- GenresFiction
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 19, 2020
1 person is currently reading
1067 people want to read
About the author
Mark Lages
21 books311 followersQuickly...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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 3, 2020
This was an experience... one as comfortable as a favorite easy chair and as satisfying as a reunion with an old friend.
Huey Baker is that old friend, even though you haven't met him yet. He's merely the voice and the reader's tour guide. It's the genius of Mark Lages that speaks through Huey and makes this tale great.
You know the feeling of returning home when you've been away many years, and then you run into a best friend from your childhood? You spend time hanging out and catching up, reliving good times, events and memories, all the changes that have happened up to the current moment? That is this book!
It's not simply just a great read, it's a moving, memorable adventure and you'll probably want to experience it more than once.
Mr. Lages, thank you for the opportunity to experience this book!
Huey Baker is that old friend, even though you haven't met him yet. He's merely the voice and the reader's tour guide. It's the genius of Mark Lages that speaks through Huey and makes this tale great.
You know the feeling of returning home when you've been away many years, and then you run into a best friend from your childhood? You spend time hanging out and catching up, reliving good times, events and memories, all the changes that have happened up to the current moment? That is this book!
It's not simply just a great read, it's a moving, memorable adventure and you'll probably want to experience it more than once.
Mr. Lages, thank you for the opportunity to experience this book!
November 29, 2020
Its somewhat funny to pinpoint the work that will be maybe perhaps we hypothesize the writer's magnum opus, and I find with a title like AN AMERICAN STORY--epic sounding, obviously American as much as insistently A Story. And... Is it? That was the main thought bubble which lowered and heightened, depending on where in the book I found myself. A certain thematic spirit moves between protagonists. It is this & not plot points that enthralls Lages.
Lages is an emerging voice; it is no wonder I try to digest his novels (this, his 3rd in my bookshelf) the way I like to get drunk: Languidly, dispassionately, til I get there. So novel or no, because it is not a singular anecdote but dozens, and therefore myriad colors, emotions, characters, voices. Lages builds himself a cabinet of curiosities with his film histories and consumer reviews; poems and biography: the now is as important to him as the thought of non-success is a theme to a majority of his protagonists (who are often educated, with knowledge, careers, and success). They muddle in minutiae for delves into inner realms...
Very--yup--American.
Lages is an emerging voice; it is no wonder I try to digest his novels (this, his 3rd in my bookshelf) the way I like to get drunk: Languidly, dispassionately, til I get there. So novel or no, because it is not a singular anecdote but dozens, and therefore myriad colors, emotions, characters, voices. Lages builds himself a cabinet of curiosities with his film histories and consumer reviews; poems and biography: the now is as important to him as the thought of non-success is a theme to a majority of his protagonists (who are often educated, with knowledge, careers, and success). They muddle in minutiae for delves into inner realms...
Very--yup--American.
September 26, 2020
This is a book about normal people for normal people.
The fact that it is written in a fairly experimental way that eschews plot and even theme shouldn't dissuade anyone from reading this. It's vignettes upon vignettes, illustrating America and American life not as Dos Pasos would do it, but as if a normal, average man would portray it from within the heart of America.
This includes modernish issues, from the nature of war or religion or sobriety or cheating or the nature of work, itself, but aside from the sobriety bits, the center of the text never quite butts up against the vital reality of them EXCEPT when it comes to addiction.
All in all, it's a book about a life, told in mini-theme snippets, that does a lot of light moralizing. It's not bad, but perhaps it wasn't quite for me. Mileage for others might vary.
The fact that it is written in a fairly experimental way that eschews plot and even theme shouldn't dissuade anyone from reading this. It's vignettes upon vignettes, illustrating America and American life not as Dos Pasos would do it, but as if a normal, average man would portray it from within the heart of America.
This includes modernish issues, from the nature of war or religion or sobriety or cheating or the nature of work, itself, but aside from the sobriety bits, the center of the text never quite butts up against the vital reality of them EXCEPT when it comes to addiction.
All in all, it's a book about a life, told in mini-theme snippets, that does a lot of light moralizing. It's not bad, but perhaps it wasn't quite for me. Mileage for others might vary.
September 30, 2020
Mark Lages "An American Story" is another of his books, that to put it simply entertains.
The main character/narrator is Huey Baker and Huey takes us through events of his life. The beauty of it all is that because of the references peppered through the story we end up feeling like Huey's story is our story. This talent of making his characters seem so familiar is one Mark excels at.
Unlike "Forrest Gump" where Forrest's story is the recent history of a country, Huey's little stories form the individual pieces that tell the whole of what it is to be an American.
On the whole I am a slow reader and for this book it worked wonderfully for me. It was hard to not suddenly stop and remember where i was or what I was doing when a reference came across the page.
From start to finish Mark weaves someone else's story into something that feels so familiar he could be telling your story.
The main character/narrator is Huey Baker and Huey takes us through events of his life. The beauty of it all is that because of the references peppered through the story we end up feeling like Huey's story is our story. This talent of making his characters seem so familiar is one Mark excels at.
Unlike "Forrest Gump" where Forrest's story is the recent history of a country, Huey's little stories form the individual pieces that tell the whole of what it is to be an American.
On the whole I am a slow reader and for this book it worked wonderfully for me. It was hard to not suddenly stop and remember where i was or what I was doing when a reference came across the page.
From start to finish Mark weaves someone else's story into something that feels so familiar he could be telling your story.
August 7, 2020
I have read a number of books from author Mark Lages, and I have enjoyed them all. I have to say that "An American Story" is my favorite so far, and I think it showcases some of Mark's outstanding qualities as a storyteller. This author never tells a routine tale, and, somehow, he manages to make us see ourselves (and himself as well) in each unique narrative. "An American Story" is just that--the representation and dissection of "the American dream". There is a central character, Huey Baker, who weaves his way in and out of various vignettes, which are interspersed with quotes by famous folks. There are also revised song lyrics scattered here and there, and if you know the tune, you will automatically sing along. Take the time to sit back and really enjoy this book--it will entertain you, but it will also give you much food for thought.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
August 15, 2020
This story is told by Huey Baker, a fictional storyteller. He talks the talk and walks the walk. He goes thru life just like we all do. There are ups and downs. There are good and bad times. Sound familiar?
He relates to true-life characters and fictional ones. If you live in America then you have some kind of An American Story to tell. We all do. He is telling his story as if he is talking to his grandchildren or for that matter anyone that will listen.
It took me a bit longer to read this story because I was constantly reminiscing my own story. I bet you will too.
Heck, ENJOY An American Story it just might get you to start telling your OWN story.
Thanks to Mark Lages for sending me this most interesting book. THANKS AGAIN.
He relates to true-life characters and fictional ones. If you live in America then you have some kind of An American Story to tell. We all do. He is telling his story as if he is talking to his grandchildren or for that matter anyone that will listen.
It took me a bit longer to read this story because I was constantly reminiscing my own story. I bet you will too.
Heck, ENJOY An American Story it just might get you to start telling your OWN story.
Thanks to Mark Lages for sending me this most interesting book. THANKS AGAIN.
September 12, 2020
This review is also posted on my blog: https://prettypeonyblog.com/2020/09/1...
An American Story by Mark Lages is a fictional memoir about a man named Huey Baker. Huey tells us stories and experiences from his life and within it, he includes some satire, war stories, alcohol abuse stories, family dynamics, and many other facets of his life. It is a story that some might find relatable, interesting—even amusing, maybe depressing, and possibly enlightening.
Huey Baker is your ordinary American, and his life is…pretty ordinary. However, there are things in life that he can’t control. Even the demons within himself are hard to keep at bay. Huey seems a bit rough on the outside, mostly in the way he thinks and in what he believes, but on a deeper level, he’s got a good heart. Huey also likes to tell stories so not everything in the book is about him. He shares quite a few life experiences from observation or from hearing it from someone else.
Lages writes with ease and flow and the story just spills out so smoothly that it’s easy to feel as though you are listening to a friend talk. The style is like comedy. If you listen to good comedy, you’ll find that the comedian will deviate from the main story and return to it here and there, finishing it off with the main point of the story. Speaking of comedy, there were some really funny stuff that had me laughing. I’d have to say, the joke about the names of the sons had me for a bit, but I did figure it out and it was an LOL moment. There were also a lot of sad stuff that broke my heart, like the kid and the toy. An American Story is the true essence of what it’s like to be an American, and the title fits it perfectly.
I enjoyed the read. It’s one of those stories that makes you think and wonder about life and being human. It’s made me more aware that we’re not perfect and that we should do our best to be kind and forgiving.
NOTE: This book was given to me to read and review, but the opinion is purely my own.
An American Story by Mark Lages is a fictional memoir about a man named Huey Baker. Huey tells us stories and experiences from his life and within it, he includes some satire, war stories, alcohol abuse stories, family dynamics, and many other facets of his life. It is a story that some might find relatable, interesting—even amusing, maybe depressing, and possibly enlightening.
Huey Baker is your ordinary American, and his life is…pretty ordinary. However, there are things in life that he can’t control. Even the demons within himself are hard to keep at bay. Huey seems a bit rough on the outside, mostly in the way he thinks and in what he believes, but on a deeper level, he’s got a good heart. Huey also likes to tell stories so not everything in the book is about him. He shares quite a few life experiences from observation or from hearing it from someone else.
Lages writes with ease and flow and the story just spills out so smoothly that it’s easy to feel as though you are listening to a friend talk. The style is like comedy. If you listen to good comedy, you’ll find that the comedian will deviate from the main story and return to it here and there, finishing it off with the main point of the story. Speaking of comedy, there were some really funny stuff that had me laughing. I’d have to say, the joke about the names of the sons had me for a bit, but I did figure it out and it was an LOL moment. There were also a lot of sad stuff that broke my heart, like the kid and the toy. An American Story is the true essence of what it’s like to be an American, and the title fits it perfectly.
I enjoyed the read. It’s one of those stories that makes you think and wonder about life and being human. It’s made me more aware that we’re not perfect and that we should do our best to be kind and forgiving.
NOTE: This book was given to me to read and review, but the opinion is purely my own.
September 14, 2020
A hodgepodge of short stories, poems/song lyrics, quotes, twisted Bible verses and a diary of a guy called Huey Baker. Technically all the pieces of this book should be connected but in reality sometimes I had problems to bind them together and because of that parts of the story seemed somewhat disjointed. I don't want to comment about the main story line, the diary of the Huey, because I have a strong feeling that author did a lot of self-inserting there. I think that it will resonate better with someone that had a similar life experience to main character's (born in 50's in America, growing up in a middle class family, struggling with addiction in the middle age). The only one thing I have to warn you about is that parts of this book are filled with "humble bragging" but otherwise Huey seems shockingly honest with the story he tells. For me, a person that have almost nothing in common with the main character, the story lacked explanation and in-depth description of the Hueys development. A swift read but a bit emotionless.
Thank you for the author for providing me with a free copy of this book.
Thank you for the author for providing me with a free copy of this book.
August 26, 2020
I did so enjoy reading AN AMERICAN STORY. This novel took me by surprise, and I took my time reading and thinking about it. The story feels very familiar, as though it happened to me. I believe everyone will feel similar, and that is part of the charm of this delightful though contemplative novel.
September 4, 2020
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. I entered said giveaway because the blurb sounded interesting. Never heard of this author before, never heard of any of his books, nothing. It's basically a book comprised of sound bites. Random quotes and vignettes that have a broad overall arc but are so disconnected that the entire narrative arc comes across as seriously disjointed. Let's just say that this isn't a writing style that I'm a fan of, and I really, really, really wish it had been disclosed in the blurb, because whoever wrote that blurb, man, that was awesome.
August 29, 2020
Three and a half stars. Mark Lages writes in an unconventional style and, for me at least, either his books work or they don’t. This book didn’t work. It’s a fictional, I assume, memoir of sorts, interspersed with little factoids, bits of recent American history filtered through the narrator’s lens, bastardized pop song lyrics and fictional asides.
Mr. Lages provided this book to me free of charge.
Mr. Lages provided this book to me free of charge.
August 20, 2020
Honestly, I can't think of a whole lot to say about this particular book. Many parts of it reminded me of Lages's previous books, especially closer to the beginning. I also didn't particularly love the more political feel towards the beginning, but I did like the book more as it went on - by the end, it felt like a completely different book than the beginning. I did feel that the shorter sections in this book were a nice change from the normally long chapters in Lages's stories, but at the same time, I think it made the story a little harder to follow. As I said, the beginning and the end didn't feel like the same story. The latter half was much more relatable for me; page 190 in particular was my favorite part. Here, it talked about keeping busy, and that being lazy is miserable... which I really feel right now. I recently started a new job, and this put into words some of my feelings about why I'm not liking it as much as I hoped I would. Also, I really liked Huey's relationship with his mom, as I'm really close with mine as well and have been missing spending time with her. All in all, this was still a pretty good book, but I'm not sure that I was able to get all of what Lages intended out of this particular one.
September 19, 2020
4 out of 5 stars.
Without giving away too many spoilers, I will say that I enjoyed this book. While some books are quick actioned, always getting you with some new major event, explosions and such, this book is more like the sleeper movie that comes out of nowhere, gets your attention, and then sits with you over the next few days, having you thinking - and maybe even re-thinking - your own notions and beliefs in regards to the different experiences the main character tells during the length of the book. The chapters are easy, short and each encompasses it's own little capsule of a world within the much bigger world of his own. You can see how things have influenced him as he grows up and goes on with his life and it was interesting to see some things come up - aspects of pop culture and past world events - that I was able to view within my own life. Because of that, I had some personal 'reactions' to some chapters ... some that made me laugh, some made me nod, some made me either agree or not ... In simple terms, this book is a "slice of life" type of book, with you reading about many slices of his life, and the lives that he shares his life with.
In the end of the book, the author writes:
"I wanted to write a story that unfolds as life comes - not as a perfect linear experience, but as a steady montage of ideas, experiences, recollections, songs, stories, feelings, beliefs and ideas. It's not something that makes sense at first glance. We have to work to make sense of it. We have to think. We have to add up the many numbers, conjugate the verbs, and dot the i's and cross the t's. We have to be on our toes."
And I think he has achieved his goal. His story is well written, and enjoyable. You find that you can relate to (at least some of) the events in the book and even have reactions. I find, a few days after completing the book, that there are things that come up, during my day, that bring back little glimmers of what came up in the book, and makes me think - especially in regards to current world events. And when he says "...We have to work to make sense of it. We have to think. We have to add up the many numbers, conjugate the verbs, and dot the i's and cross the t's. We have to be on our toes..." I would reply that yes, at times I *do* think we need to sometimes step up and do those things and really evaluate our lives, however I think, sometimes, its not suppose to be so .... much? Maybe we are just suppose to sit back, enjoy and just "be".
In closing, I'd like to thank the author, Mark Lages, for the wonderful opportunity to read their book in the form of an ARC. I give this *honest* review of my own accord.
Without giving away too many spoilers, I will say that I enjoyed this book. While some books are quick actioned, always getting you with some new major event, explosions and such, this book is more like the sleeper movie that comes out of nowhere, gets your attention, and then sits with you over the next few days, having you thinking - and maybe even re-thinking - your own notions and beliefs in regards to the different experiences the main character tells during the length of the book. The chapters are easy, short and each encompasses it's own little capsule of a world within the much bigger world of his own. You can see how things have influenced him as he grows up and goes on with his life and it was interesting to see some things come up - aspects of pop culture and past world events - that I was able to view within my own life. Because of that, I had some personal 'reactions' to some chapters ... some that made me laugh, some made me nod, some made me either agree or not ... In simple terms, this book is a "slice of life" type of book, with you reading about many slices of his life, and the lives that he shares his life with.
In the end of the book, the author writes:
"I wanted to write a story that unfolds as life comes - not as a perfect linear experience, but as a steady montage of ideas, experiences, recollections, songs, stories, feelings, beliefs and ideas. It's not something that makes sense at first glance. We have to work to make sense of it. We have to think. We have to add up the many numbers, conjugate the verbs, and dot the i's and cross the t's. We have to be on our toes."
And I think he has achieved his goal. His story is well written, and enjoyable. You find that you can relate to (at least some of) the events in the book and even have reactions. I find, a few days after completing the book, that there are things that come up, during my day, that bring back little glimmers of what came up in the book, and makes me think - especially in regards to current world events. And when he says "...We have to work to make sense of it. We have to think. We have to add up the many numbers, conjugate the verbs, and dot the i's and cross the t's. We have to be on our toes..." I would reply that yes, at times I *do* think we need to sometimes step up and do those things and really evaluate our lives, however I think, sometimes, its not suppose to be so .... much? Maybe we are just suppose to sit back, enjoy and just "be".
In closing, I'd like to thank the author, Mark Lages, for the wonderful opportunity to read their book in the form of an ARC. I give this *honest* review of my own accord.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2020
Huey Baker (son, narrator, former alcoholic, UC Berkeley; art) is just one of 328.2 million citizens who were born/raised in America.
Is the US a land of opportunity?
Huey sees Dr. Janet Williams psychiatrist, MD, & attends AA.
Richard smiley & associates is Huey’s boss.
Rhonda Baker (Huey’s wife/mother) works in advertising at her father’s firm.
Thomas William Baker (son) was born later.
clarence O’Neil developer) came to see Huey about a bid in Fontana, San Bernardino County, CA on a shopping mall.
He won the bid & hired sub-contractors to do the: foundation framing, roofing, siding, drywall, painting, etc.
John, Dewey, Carlos, & Dallas were going to remodel the Baker’s house.
Dewey (flu) & Carlos (sick mother) had to bow out of working.
Only John & Dallas remained.
Things didn’t go as planned.
Lewis (son) had a Think-A-Tron (Hasbro).
Bobby O’Dell (9, son) sure wanted 1 of those.
What happened to Thomas (Washington St. U)?
Who had Sea Monkey’s when they were a kid?
1-day, what shocking news did Huey have for Rhonda?
Thomas married Elaine Thomas. Her parents: Jack Thomas (husband/father, real estate broker) & Cindy Thomas (Cedars Sinai wife/mother nurse) had the wedding & the reception Beverly Hills.
What did Neil Sanborn (Thomas BMF) call Huey for?
2018, Huey’s (63) German Shepard Henry passed away.
Rhonda & Thomas never told Huey about his BBQ grill.
How much beer do American’s consume a year?
Did you answer your own American dream question?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written Horatio Alger type book. It was quite 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 huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great American Dream movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; AuthorHouse; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Is the US a land of opportunity?
Huey sees Dr. Janet Williams psychiatrist, MD, & attends AA.
Richard smiley & associates is Huey’s boss.
Rhonda Baker (Huey’s wife/mother) works in advertising at her father’s firm.
Thomas William Baker (son) was born later.
clarence O’Neil developer) came to see Huey about a bid in Fontana, San Bernardino County, CA on a shopping mall.
He won the bid & hired sub-contractors to do the: foundation framing, roofing, siding, drywall, painting, etc.
John, Dewey, Carlos, & Dallas were going to remodel the Baker’s house.
Dewey (flu) & Carlos (sick mother) had to bow out of working.
Only John & Dallas remained.
Things didn’t go as planned.
Lewis (son) had a Think-A-Tron (Hasbro).
Bobby O’Dell (9, son) sure wanted 1 of those.
What happened to Thomas (Washington St. U)?
Who had Sea Monkey’s when they were a kid?
1-day, what shocking news did Huey have for Rhonda?
Thomas married Elaine Thomas. Her parents: Jack Thomas (husband/father, real estate broker) & Cindy Thomas (Cedars Sinai wife/mother nurse) had the wedding & the reception Beverly Hills.
What did Neil Sanborn (Thomas BMF) call Huey for?
2018, Huey’s (63) German Shepard Henry passed away.
Rhonda & Thomas never told Huey about his BBQ grill.
How much beer do American’s consume a year?
Did you answer your own American dream question?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written Horatio Alger type book. It was quite 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 huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great American Dream movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; AuthorHouse; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
September 11, 2020
Huey tells his story of everday life in America. Tidbits of what he remembers that had meaning to him. How he interpeted it,his asking how,what and the whys things happened the way they did. While reading this book I could relate to events that Huey was explaining or knowing someone who went through what he saw or did. Mark, I so enjoy your books,as I read each one I'm made to feel I'm part of your words,wanting to help the main characters,I laugh,feel sad, and want to reach out and help them. Kudos on An American Story.
October 29, 2020
Amazing book. Loved it!! Didn’t know what to expect at first but it was terrific
November 3, 2020
Really enjoyed the book. I would put this on your tbr pile :)
August 24, 2020
The narrator in An American Story by Mark Lages tells the reader his story in a friendly, easy-to-read manner. Weaved into Huey Baker's life story are brief vignettes of other individuals' stories that, taken all together, depict the multi-faceted culture of American society. Readers find characters, real and fictional, who, at times, certainly don't represent the best of American citizens, making poor decisions and harboring flawed beliefs, and individuals who are good guys encountering bad luck, and folks who are simply making their way. There are parts of the book that should make readers uncomfortable, and parts that may make readers feel disappointed, but they are all pieces in the puzzle of this diverse nation. And one puzzle piece does not the whole picture make. An American Story is easy to read and it just might make you think about your own American experience.
August 18, 2020
Just like the author states, "This will probably be different than books you are accustomed to." I absolutely love, Mark Lages books and the the way he can tell a story. An American Story, is a wonderful story of Huey Baker and his insights of what the American dream is all about. The choices we make and how they can change our lives. While the story is told in a unique way, it reminded me of a bunch of short stories that, have been weaved together to make an ending that tied everything together. This is a book that will make you ponder what the American Dream is and how do you get there!
August 19, 2020
The cover of this book is very fitting.
This book isn’t quite a book of short stories, but each little story/quote/poem or song slowly mold into a bigger picture.
Each one acting as another piece to the puzzle.
The “main” story follows Huey’s life. Follows his troubles and his tribulations. With little tidbits here and there from other stories or facts added in.
Mark Lages has an interesting way of telling stories that makes it hard to put a book down.
100% recommend anything from Mark Lages.
Very entertaining.
This book isn’t quite a book of short stories, but each little story/quote/poem or song slowly mold into a bigger picture.
Each one acting as another piece to the puzzle.
The “main” story follows Huey’s life. Follows his troubles and his tribulations. With little tidbits here and there from other stories or facts added in.
Mark Lages has an interesting way of telling stories that makes it hard to put a book down.
100% recommend anything from Mark Lages.
Very entertaining.
August 15, 2020
An American Story is made up of vignettes of people’s lives cleverly written with a bit of humor, a few tears, and powerful messages. If you like a good story teller who makes you think with his words than Mark Lages is the man. His characters feel like real people with real problems. Some are likable and some aren’t so nice. What I love about Mark’s books most is that they are relatable. I’ve experienced some of the same feelings his character’s experience and it made me question whether some of my actions and thoughts weren’t just like in his book. There is just enough funny to make you laugh out loud. I especially loved the revised lyrics to old songs that make them more relevant in today’s world. There is something for everyone in this book. Sit down with your favorite beverage and enjoy An American life through Mark’s eyes.
August 9, 2020
What is an American? Any definition that is offered can be countered and proven to be the wrong. Answer if only you spend time immersed in the idea. Meet Huey Baker, wife Rhonda, son Thomas, and the mysteries of life in America itself. In your sixties, Huey, as many of us, finds looking back on life an unsettling history of what is life as an American. What about the ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence. Are we truly granted unalienable rights, whose supersedes another one? If we raise ourselves and families under certain rules or ethics we feel are correct, what if we are mistaken, weak and retreating on viewpoints, when should we even have a viewpoint? As Huey remanences about the past, we encounter a life comparable to what we assume is representative of the majority. This book was a deeper than expected read. I felt compelled to stop at intervals to examine myself and my own constructs and debate the exceptions. This was a free book to read and review. I have no connection to anything involved. I have read many of the author's books and relish the philosophical debate it stills within the reader. Do all readers feel the same way? We are only human and each of us has multiple facets and reflections. Mark did a great write in exposing us again to another viewpoint to stir our own personality.
August 15, 2020
"An American Story" by Mark Lages is his latest book.
Loved this book! I took my time reading it, as the format of the intertwined stories took various shapes: dialogues, short stories, poems, and songs were interspersed in the telling of each tale. And each story or part of a story gave me food for thought.
The main characters were well developed and their stories were told in the historical past and present times.
While reading, I reminisced about my growing (and aging) years, as I am in the same age group as the characters in the stories. I savored descriptions of times (and songs!) of the 60's and 70's. So much of this book spoke to me of so many things.
A big 'thank you!' to the author, Mark Lages, for gifting me a copy of his book hot off the press.
Loved this book! I took my time reading it, as the format of the intertwined stories took various shapes: dialogues, short stories, poems, and songs were interspersed in the telling of each tale. And each story or part of a story gave me food for thought.
The main characters were well developed and their stories were told in the historical past and present times.
While reading, I reminisced about my growing (and aging) years, as I am in the same age group as the characters in the stories. I savored descriptions of times (and songs!) of the 60's and 70's. So much of this book spoke to me of so many things.
A big 'thank you!' to the author, Mark Lages, for gifting me a copy of his book hot off the press.
August 17, 2020
Compared to the other books from Mark that I've read, this was not as enjoyable. The format (jumping between the poetry, quotations, and main text) felt sharply jarring and disorientating rather than a complex, intertwined narrative. I did like the main premise of the story, but I wish the elements of the narrative were more carefully incorporated.
August 11, 2020
This is an interesting book and difficult to explain. It does have a story, but goes off seemingly chasing rabbits for a while and then comes back. However, the rabbit chasing ties in with the story sooner or later. There are paraphrased songs and quotes throughout the book as well, some quite clever. I especially enjoyed the Trashman one (but I love George Harrison, so that may have contributed a bit to that enjoyment). The book is indeed different, but I don't believe you will be disappointed.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2020
I am a longtime fan of Mark Lages' work and his latest work, An American Story, is no exception. I will start with a question the author asks at the very end of this book - "So what did you think of this book?". He goes on to ask a number of questions on how the story made you feel. Like his other works it was very thought provoking for me. Thoughts that are both good and bad recalling my memories from years ago. The story took me back to my childhood and flowed through the years to the present. It reminded me of things I had put in the back of my mind, things I reflect upon often and information that was new to me. It's a story about life, people, America and a whole lot more.
Mark's writing is not your usual mass produced book that designed to appeal to everyone. I feel the more you read his work the more you will enjoy and understand his style (at least most of the time!). If you have not read his work before this is a good book to start your journey. The more I read his books the more I realize how deep they can be. By the way, I have read all his books. Treat yourself to this book and enjoy a great read.
Mark's writing is not your usual mass produced book that designed to appeal to everyone. I feel the more you read his work the more you will enjoy and understand his style (at least most of the time!). If you have not read his work before this is a good book to start your journey. The more I read his books the more I realize how deep they can be. By the way, I have read all his books. Treat yourself to this book and enjoy a great read.
August 7, 2020
This was a phenomenal story! I love Lages' books but this was a great read. His books always have a great message and fun anecdotes but this one truly had a great story. Lages is like that fun uncle or dad that has the great stories you love to hear. This one had a great commentary on American lives and what it is and means to be an "American". His wit and sometimes subtle sarcasm make for a great read with a meaning. I have read several of his books and plan on reading the rest of them. He is truly a great author.
August 3, 2020
Mark Lages is one outstanding author and I have become a huge fan. An American Story is his latest venture and it does not disappoint. It is as though Lages looks into the soul of America and shoots an arrow straight to the heart. His insight into the good, the bad, the beautiful, and the ugly aspects of society is so realistic and thought-provoking that one is forced to examine life and all that it means to exist. The story is about Huey Baker, who becomes a symbol for every man and woman and whose life is representative of the lives every person experiences. Mark Lages says it best on the back cover of the book when he writes," So how does one read this novel? Expectations will only let you down, so don't search for anything specific. Just pour a cup of coffee, keep an open mind, and enjoy the show." It is a show that is sometimes smooth and sometimes bumpy, but damn, did I ever enjoy the ride.
August 5, 2020
This is my second Mark Lages book and it is equally as good as the other that I read, Arcadia. The story is well written although it is different from other books I have read. Although it was a bit difficult to follow at times, I enjoyed it. The book is thought provoking and gives a view of America that is unique. Well done, Mark! I look forward to reading more from you.
August 1, 2020
Mark Lages never disappoints. This is the 13th novel of his that I have read. Reading one of his books has been like listening to an old friend talk to you by the fireplace in your living room.
This one is the story of the life of Huey Baker. But Huey just provides the framework for the author to delve into many aspects of America life. Some of the topics are familiar ones to Lages readers: alcoholism, marriage, parent-child relationships,religion, business ethics and materialism.
There are points in the book where things gets rather dark and cynical, but the story gets more hopeful as it heads to its conclusion.
A unique writing style that takes me in every time.
This one is the story of the life of Huey Baker. But Huey just provides the framework for the author to delve into many aspects of America life. Some of the topics are familiar ones to Lages readers: alcoholism, marriage, parent-child relationships,religion, business ethics and materialism.
There are points in the book where things gets rather dark and cynical, but the story gets more hopeful as it heads to its conclusion.
A unique writing style that takes me in every time.
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