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Framily: Friends Considered Family
FRAMILY (friends considered family) is the third of a trilogy. It continues the sports discussions and escapades of three close friends since childhood, each now reconnected with their first loves.
The saga began with "8" Centerfield in New York, 1951-1957, as three
thirteen year-old amigos argued about the best center fielder in New York in their eighth- grade class. Was it Willie, Mickey, or the Duke? Dopey Bastid follows a reflection of the friends twenty years in the future as one buddy, with the assistance of his pals writes a novel about dumb decisions in the world of sports.
FRAMILY commences at the conclusion of Dopey Bastid. The scene is a 1979 New Year's Eve celebration and concludes in the early summer of 1987. The sports stories herein are authentic, albeit with the addition of the perspective from an author who is writing about events several decades afterward. Historical fiction is the genre.
The sports discussions continue in a format that author, T.A. Olsinski, had previously described as "the famous retelling reminds the reader what it is like to hear stories from the friendly guy sitting next to you at the bar."
FRAMILY has a diversity of historical event dialogues, inclusive of baseball, football, basketball, hockey, boxing, golf and tennis. You will also share in non-sport history, such as the premature death of the comedic genius John Belushi, the movies of the era such as Chariots of Fire and Stand by Me, and the recollection of the music and poetic brilliance of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Billy Joel.
The book endeavors to have the reader fondly recall sporting events or perhaps become more familiar with them. Moreover, the life events of the protagonists, Joey Kowalski, Bob Murphy, and Lou Marciano, along with their mates, will hopefully have you laughing out loud, shedding a tear, and most importantly reflecting on the true meaning of friendship.
The saga began with "8" Centerfield in New York, 1951-1957, as three
thirteen year-old amigos argued about the best center fielder in New York in their eighth- grade class. Was it Willie, Mickey, or the Duke? Dopey Bastid follows a reflection of the friends twenty years in the future as one buddy, with the assistance of his pals writes a novel about dumb decisions in the world of sports.
FRAMILY commences at the conclusion of Dopey Bastid. The scene is a 1979 New Year's Eve celebration and concludes in the early summer of 1987. The sports stories herein are authentic, albeit with the addition of the perspective from an author who is writing about events several decades afterward. Historical fiction is the genre.
The sports discussions continue in a format that author, T.A. Olsinski, had previously described as "the famous retelling reminds the reader what it is like to hear stories from the friendly guy sitting next to you at the bar."
FRAMILY has a diversity of historical event dialogues, inclusive of baseball, football, basketball, hockey, boxing, golf and tennis. You will also share in non-sport history, such as the premature death of the comedic genius John Belushi, the movies of the era such as Chariots of Fire and Stand by Me, and the recollection of the music and poetic brilliance of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Billy Joel.
The book endeavors to have the reader fondly recall sporting events or perhaps become more familiar with them. Moreover, the life events of the protagonists, Joey Kowalski, Bob Murphy, and Lou Marciano, along with their mates, will hopefully have you laughing out loud, shedding a tear, and most importantly reflecting on the true meaning of friendship.
270 pages, Paperback
Published May 11, 2021
1 person want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 26, 2024
I felt deeply connected to this book—it’s a heartfelt and fitting conclusion to the trilogy, celebrating friendship through sports, nostalgia, and life’s most meaningful moments. The story begins at a New Year’s Eve party in 1979 and spans to the summer of 1987, following Joey Kowalski, Bob Murphy, and Lou Marciano as their lifelong bond grows stronger. Their camaraderie feels authentic and relatable, filled with humor, warmth, and shared memories that made me emotional as a fan of true friendships.
The sports narratives are a standout feature. The author brings iconic moments in baseball, football, hockey, and more to life with vivid detail and passion. Written in a conversational tone, the discussions feel like reminiscing with an old friend, making the memories both fresh and engaging. Through ups and downs, the characters remind us of the joy and strength found in meaningful connections. The balance of humor and heartfelt reflections feels genuine and keeps the story deeply engaging.
The author’s writing also transported me back to old times, reviving memories of sports, music, and film that I hadn’t thought about in years. Whether I was laughing at the characters’ antics, feeling their struggles, or simply enjoying their journey, the story resonated with me on a personal level.
I highly recommend this book, it’s a genuine work of art.
The sports narratives are a standout feature. The author brings iconic moments in baseball, football, hockey, and more to life with vivid detail and passion. Written in a conversational tone, the discussions feel like reminiscing with an old friend, making the memories both fresh and engaging. Through ups and downs, the characters remind us of the joy and strength found in meaningful connections. The balance of humor and heartfelt reflections feels genuine and keeps the story deeply engaging.
The author’s writing also transported me back to old times, reviving memories of sports, music, and film that I hadn’t thought about in years. Whether I was laughing at the characters’ antics, feeling their struggles, or simply enjoying their journey, the story resonated with me on a personal level.
I highly recommend this book, it’s a genuine work of art.
December 23, 2024
The third book in Lou Saulino's trilogy, Framily: Friends Considered Family, is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and stories about the power of friendship. Set in the summer of 1987, the book continues to showcase Saulino’s flawless narrative style, which I enjoyed in the earlier volumes. He skillfully brings the past to life with nostalgic and meaningful sports stories that emphasize the value of personal connections.
The strength of this book lies in the portrayal of the three lifelong friends. Their personalities, struggles, and triumphs are depicted with authenticity, making them feel real and relatable. Despite the changes in their lives, their bond remains strong, and that connection is what truly captivates—making you laugh, reflect, and even shed a tear. This story is about more than sports or past decisions; it’s a reminder that the most valuable friendships are those that endure through time and challenges. The message about reconnecting with what truly matters stays with you long after finishing the book.
If you’ve read the previous installments, Framily is a perfect and heartwarming conclusion to the trilogy. If you haven’t started the series yet, now is the time. I highly recommend it—it’s a story that will resonate and stay with you.
The strength of this book lies in the portrayal of the three lifelong friends. Their personalities, struggles, and triumphs are depicted with authenticity, making them feel real and relatable. Despite the changes in their lives, their bond remains strong, and that connection is what truly captivates—making you laugh, reflect, and even shed a tear. This story is about more than sports or past decisions; it’s a reminder that the most valuable friendships are those that endure through time and challenges. The message about reconnecting with what truly matters stays with you long after finishing the book.
If you’ve read the previous installments, Framily is a perfect and heartwarming conclusion to the trilogy. If you haven’t started the series yet, now is the time. I highly recommend it—it’s a story that will resonate and stay with you.
December 26, 2024
"Friends are the family we choose," and this book perfectly captures that idea. I read it based on a friend’s recommendation, and they were right—it combines everything I enjoy: a story about friendship and a love for sports.
Lou Saulino tells a fantastic story with vivid detail. I especially appreciated the deep descriptions of the settings and characters, which made me feel like I was part of each scene. The journey of Lou, Joey, and Bob is both captivating and relatable. Their passion for sports adds a fascinating layer, blending engaging moments of sports history with the emotional depth of their experiences. Beyond their shared love for sports, the characters face personal challenges, and Saulino explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time in a way that resonates deeply. The friendships in this story feel authentic and will make you reflect on your own relationships and how you nurture them.
This book is an emotional roller coaster—one moment you’re laughing, and the next, you’re moved to tears. Like real friendships, it’s filled with unique and meaningful moments that leave a lasting impact. By the end, I felt grateful for my friends and inspired to strengthen those connections, just as the characters do.
Lou Saulino tells a fantastic story with vivid detail. I especially appreciated the deep descriptions of the settings and characters, which made me feel like I was part of each scene. The journey of Lou, Joey, and Bob is both captivating and relatable. Their passion for sports adds a fascinating layer, blending engaging moments of sports history with the emotional depth of their experiences. Beyond their shared love for sports, the characters face personal challenges, and Saulino explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time in a way that resonates deeply. The friendships in this story feel authentic and will make you reflect on your own relationships and how you nurture them.
This book is an emotional roller coaster—one moment you’re laughing, and the next, you’re moved to tears. Like real friendships, it’s filled with unique and meaningful moments that leave a lasting impact. By the end, I felt grateful for my friends and inspired to strengthen those connections, just as the characters do.
December 21, 2024
What I loved most was how the book makes you feel like part of the group. Saulino’s conversational tone feels like sitting with old friends, reminiscing about the “good old days.” The lively sports discussions—covering everything from baseball to golf—are seamlessly woven into the broader story of life and friendship.
The mix of sports and pop culture references from the '70s and '80s adds depth to the narrative. Mentions of Stand by Me, Bob Dylan, and other cultural icons don’t just add nostalgia; they create a vivid and relatable backdrop for the story. The characters are endearing, with their humor, loyalty, and imperfections making them feel real. I laughed at their banter, felt emotional during their struggles, and connected deeply to their journey. It’s not just about sports; it’s about the moments and relationships that shape us.
While sports fans may find added enjoyment, the themes of friendship and reflection are universal. Framily is a warm and engaging read that leaves you smiling and appreciating the people you consider your own “framily.”
The mix of sports and pop culture references from the '70s and '80s adds depth to the narrative. Mentions of Stand by Me, Bob Dylan, and other cultural icons don’t just add nostalgia; they create a vivid and relatable backdrop for the story. The characters are endearing, with their humor, loyalty, and imperfections making them feel real. I laughed at their banter, felt emotional during their struggles, and connected deeply to their journey. It’s not just about sports; it’s about the moments and relationships that shape us.
While sports fans may find added enjoyment, the themes of friendship and reflection are universal. Framily is a warm and engaging read that leaves you smiling and appreciating the people you consider your own “framily.”
December 23, 2024
An interesting read
Framily is the third installment in Lou Saulino’s trilogy, continuing the story of a close-knit group of friends. The book captures their conversations, which center around sports but often branch into other topics, including historical events and the lives of famous people.
I really enjoyed the main theme of the book: the bond between friends. The way the author describes their gatherings creates a relatable, friendly atmosphere that feels authentic. The dialogue is vivid and dynamic, making the story engaging and realistic. The chapters are quick to read and flow naturally, covering everything from baseball, football, and hockey to discussions about coaches, athletes, and broader history. I found this jumping between topics familiar—it reminded me of conversations with my own friends, where one subject easily leads to another.
The book is entertaining and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own friendships and connections. I highly recommend it to anyone who values stories about friends who feel like family.
Framily is the third installment in Lou Saulino’s trilogy, continuing the story of a close-knit group of friends. The book captures their conversations, which center around sports but often branch into other topics, including historical events and the lives of famous people.
I really enjoyed the main theme of the book: the bond between friends. The way the author describes their gatherings creates a relatable, friendly atmosphere that feels authentic. The dialogue is vivid and dynamic, making the story engaging and realistic. The chapters are quick to read and flow naturally, covering everything from baseball, football, and hockey to discussions about coaches, athletes, and broader history. I found this jumping between topics familiar—it reminded me of conversations with my own friends, where one subject easily leads to another.
The book is entertaining and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own friendships and connections. I highly recommend it to anyone who values stories about friends who feel like family.
December 26, 2024
Wow, very moving
Although this book isn’t what I would usually choose, I was pleasantly surprised by how excellent it turned out to be. The story of friends gathering and reminiscing reminded me of my husband and son, both passionate sports lovers who constantly share their own stories and skills.
The narrative is incredibly moving and captivated me to the point of tears several times. It explores love from different perspectives—not just romantic relationships but also the deep bond that develops over years of shared experiences among close friends. The characters are a highlight. The author brings them to life with unique traits and emotions that set them apart while still making them relatable. Their expressions, reflections, and glimpses of nostalgia create a strong connection with the reader.
I loved this book not only because it reminded me of two people I care about but also because it evoked my own memories—both joyful and bittersweet. The author skillfully captures that sense of longing for the past, making the experience deeply emotional.
Although this book isn’t what I would usually choose, I was pleasantly surprised by how excellent it turned out to be. The story of friends gathering and reminiscing reminded me of my husband and son, both passionate sports lovers who constantly share their own stories and skills.
The narrative is incredibly moving and captivated me to the point of tears several times. It explores love from different perspectives—not just romantic relationships but also the deep bond that develops over years of shared experiences among close friends. The characters are a highlight. The author brings them to life with unique traits and emotions that set them apart while still making them relatable. Their expressions, reflections, and glimpses of nostalgia create a strong connection with the reader.
I loved this book not only because it reminded me of two people I care about but also because it evoked my own memories—both joyful and bittersweet. The author skillfully captures that sense of longing for the past, making the experience deeply emotional.
January 2, 2025
Lou Saulino’s Framily beautifully reinforces the idea that friends can become family—relationships that go beyond blood. Reading about the bond between the three friends in this novel made me reflect on my own friendships. My school friends, who know me inside out and support me unconditionally, are truly part of my family.
The book also highlights how sports can connect people in powerful ways. Whether it’s cheering for a friend, discussing a game, or simply bonding over shared moments, sports bring us together. The story follows three childhood friends—now a sportswriter, an engineer, and a baseball coach—whose shared love for sports strengthens their lifelong connection. Framily captures an era when sports were more than games; they were a source of unity and identity. Reading it made me nostalgic, as it celebrates both the past and the people we hold close every day.
Framily is a heartfelt reminder to cherish those relationships, live in the moment, and find connection through something as unifying as sports.
The book also highlights how sports can connect people in powerful ways. Whether it’s cheering for a friend, discussing a game, or simply bonding over shared moments, sports bring us together. The story follows three childhood friends—now a sportswriter, an engineer, and a baseball coach—whose shared love for sports strengthens their lifelong connection. Framily captures an era when sports were more than games; they were a source of unity and identity. Reading it made me nostalgic, as it celebrates both the past and the people we hold close every day.
Framily is a heartfelt reminder to cherish those relationships, live in the moment, and find connection through something as unifying as sports.
December 21, 2024
Framily: Friends Considered Family by Lou Saulino is the third installment in the trilogy, continuing the story of three lifelong friends who reconnect with their first loves while sharing entertaining discussions about sports. The book picks up where Dopey Bastid ends and explores the bonds of friendship, values, and traditions. Through vivid storytelling and heartfelt dialogue, it captures the essence of childhood friendships—those connections that ignore societal expectations and remain authentic.
The powerful message about friendship and family is a standout. It reminds us that family isn’t just defined by blood but by the relationships we nurture over time. The characters are beautifully crafted, and their conversations—whether lighthearted or deep—feel natural and relatable.
This book inspires readers to cherish their friendships, reconnect with old friends, and appreciate the profound impact of genuine human connections.
The powerful message about friendship and family is a standout. It reminds us that family isn’t just defined by blood but by the relationships we nurture over time. The characters are beautifully crafted, and their conversations—whether lighthearted or deep—feel natural and relatable.
This book inspires readers to cherish their friendships, reconnect with old friends, and appreciate the profound impact of genuine human connections.
December 21, 2024
Good reflection
The book reinforces the importance of friendships—the ones we choose—and how these bonds can often feel stronger and more selfless than family relationships. What stood out most to me was the book’s reflection on fundamental values like loyalty, tolerance, and acceptance. Saulino explores the complexities of both family and friendship, highlighting the trust and universal need for connection that define these relationships. The story underscores how crucial mutual support—both emotional and practical—is to our well-being. It also delves into the nature of human relationships, questioning the sense of belonging and showing how deep friendships can profoundly impact our happiness and personal growth. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the role close relationships play in our lives. I believe more people should read it for its thoughtful exploration of human connections and their lasting impact on everyday life.
The book reinforces the importance of friendships—the ones we choose—and how these bonds can often feel stronger and more selfless than family relationships. What stood out most to me was the book’s reflection on fundamental values like loyalty, tolerance, and acceptance. Saulino explores the complexities of both family and friendship, highlighting the trust and universal need for connection that define these relationships. The story underscores how crucial mutual support—both emotional and practical—is to our well-being. It also delves into the nature of human relationships, questioning the sense of belonging and showing how deep friendships can profoundly impact our happiness and personal growth. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the role close relationships play in our lives. I believe more people should read it for its thoughtful exploration of human connections and their lasting impact on everyday life.
December 27, 2024
The plot is fast-paced, easy to follow, and well-developed, with characters rooted in the world of sports and their interpersonal relationships. The settings are clear and well-described, making it easy to visualize where the story unfolds.
While the vocabulary occasionally leans toward off-color, I didn’t find it excessive or inappropriate. It feels authentic to the world being portrayed. This book explores sports through an important lens: friendship. It tells the story of three friends, from childhood to adulthood, through their families and shared experiences. Saulino incorporates key sports moments, adding an informative and enjoyable touch to the narrative.
By the end, the book highlights the value of friendship, particularly in sports, as a support network that fosters teamwork, solidarity, and connection. It’s an entertaining and meaningful read that makes you appreciate the power of relationships in every stage of life.
While the vocabulary occasionally leans toward off-color, I didn’t find it excessive or inappropriate. It feels authentic to the world being portrayed. This book explores sports through an important lens: friendship. It tells the story of three friends, from childhood to adulthood, through their families and shared experiences. Saulino incorporates key sports moments, adding an informative and enjoyable touch to the narrative.
By the end, the book highlights the value of friendship, particularly in sports, as a support network that fosters teamwork, solidarity, and connection. It’s an entertaining and meaningful read that makes you appreciate the power of relationships in every stage of life.
December 22, 2024
This book explores the lives of three lifelong friends, offering an honest look at their beliefs, personal realities, and perspectives on sports-related historical events. It highlights the significance of professional athletes and encourages readers to see things from new angles.
While I’ve read other works by this author and sometimes find the plots predictable, it doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of his stories. The dialogue is clever and authentic, showcasing the dynamics of friendship and competition. Each chapter skillfully draws parallels between sports and life, offering motivation and insight for everyday routines.
This is an enjoyable and thought-provoking novel, perfect for sports fans and casual readers alike. With its engaging characters, vivid scenes, and valuable themes, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an action-filled story with meaningful reflections.
While I’ve read other works by this author and sometimes find the plots predictable, it doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of his stories. The dialogue is clever and authentic, showcasing the dynamics of friendship and competition. Each chapter skillfully draws parallels between sports and life, offering motivation and insight for everyday routines.
This is an enjoyable and thought-provoking novel, perfect for sports fans and casual readers alike. With its engaging characters, vivid scenes, and valuable themes, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an action-filled story with meaningful reflections.
December 23, 2024
Lou Saulino explores the idea that good friends can become the family we choose. I really enjoyed how the author blends real sporting events into the fictional story. It creates a unique and nostalgic connection for the reader, making the narrative feel both grounded and engaging. Including real photos of these events adds another layer, instantly connecting readers to the moments and enriching the experience. The characters are well-developed, and watching their transformation over the years—along with the changes in their perspectives—was fascinating. Saulino captures the growth and complexity of lifelong friendships in a way that feels believable and heartfelt.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves stories about friendship, personal growth, and sports. It’s a compelling read that highlights the importance of loyalty, ideals, and the enduring bonds we create over time.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves stories about friendship, personal growth, and sports. It’s a compelling read that highlights the importance of loyalty, ideals, and the enduring bonds we create over time.
December 24, 2024
A unique story.
Framily explores the concept of friends who become family, a theme I loved right from the start. The book follows three childhood friends—Joey Kowalski, Bob Murphy, and Lou Marciano—while blending their life stories with discussions about sports and historical events. The book is easy to read, entertaining, and filled with diverse experiences that keep the reader engaged. The author's passion for sports is clear on every page and adds depth to the characters' stories.
While I usually prefer narration over dialogue, the author uses dialogue effectively here, making me feel part of the story and the characters' experiences. Lou Saulino does an excellent job blending sports, friendship, and life into a captivating and unique adventure. This book held my attention from beginning to end, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Framily explores the concept of friends who become family, a theme I loved right from the start. The book follows three childhood friends—Joey Kowalski, Bob Murphy, and Lou Marciano—while blending their life stories with discussions about sports and historical events. The book is easy to read, entertaining, and filled with diverse experiences that keep the reader engaged. The author's passion for sports is clear on every page and adds depth to the characters' stories.
While I usually prefer narration over dialogue, the author uses dialogue effectively here, making me feel part of the story and the characters' experiences. Lou Saulino does an excellent job blending sports, friendship, and life into a captivating and unique adventure. This book held my attention from beginning to end, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
December 25, 2024
The book is easy to follow, written in a conversational tone that keeps the reader engaged. I especially enjoyed the sports moments, particularly in chapter two, where the author reminisces about iconic baseball plays and sparks debates about the best players of the era. It brings out camaraderie and friendly competition that feels authentic.
I also appreciated the focus on personal struggles and victories, highlighting the importance of friendship when navigating life’s challenges. The book makes a strong point about chosen family—how friends can become as significant as blood relatives because true connection goes beyond biology. The loyalty and support these friendships provide are central to the story.
Saulino uses sports as a powerful mirror for life’s struggles and triumphs, a comparison every athlete can relate to.
I also appreciated the focus on personal struggles and victories, highlighting the importance of friendship when navigating life’s challenges. The book makes a strong point about chosen family—how friends can become as significant as blood relatives because true connection goes beyond biology. The loyalty and support these friendships provide are central to the story.
Saulino uses sports as a powerful mirror for life’s struggles and triumphs, a comparison every athlete can relate to.
December 28, 2024
Saulino’s storytelling feels personal, like a conversation with someone who truly understands the value of these connections. Through anecdotes and reflections, the book captures the joys, struggles, and support that come with “framily” bonds. As I read, I found myself identifying the friends in my life who are my chosen family.
What I appreciate most is the book’s honesty. It doesn’t just highlight the good; it also shows that these relationships require effort and understanding. This authenticity makes the message even more powerful, reminding us to nurture and recognize the people who matter most.
If you’re looking for an inspiring read or want to reflect on the connections in your life, this book is perfect. It’s a heartfelt reminder that family isn’t about blood—it’s about the people who choose to stand by you.
What I appreciate most is the book’s honesty. It doesn’t just highlight the good; it also shows that these relationships require effort and understanding. This authenticity makes the message even more powerful, reminding us to nurture and recognize the people who matter most.
If you’re looking for an inspiring read or want to reflect on the connections in your life, this book is perfect. It’s a heartfelt reminder that family isn’t about blood—it’s about the people who choose to stand by you.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews