I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets

by Carl Kegerreis

When United States Air Force Captain Oley Washington's fighter jet is shot down over Vietnam and he is captured by the enemy, life seems to be over. But Captain Oley is a resourceful young man, and he orchestrates a successful prison-camp break. He is expected to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for saving the lives of his fellow POWs.



Flying high before the ceremony, Captain Oley walks into a group of war protesters who beat him senseless and leave him for dead. He wakes up with no idea who he is or where he is from. All he has are these strange green pellets that mysteriously turn into gasoline. Where did they come from? Who gave them to him?



Suffering from a severe case of amnesia, Oley becomes a homeless vagabond, living in an abandoned bank where he stores his gasoline pellets inside a rusted safe. For the most part, he keeps to himself. But when people are kind to him, he thanks them by handing them some of his mysterious pellets.



Thinking they are dirty green jellybeans, most people throw the pellets out after receiving them. But strange things happen when they do. Large puddles of gasoline form where the pellets land, and the connection is eventually made. Who is this homeless man, and where does he get these magic pellets? Finding the answers to these questions will help to solve another mystery that involves a coverup of monumental proportions.

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2022

About the author

I'm a Vietnam War veteran who was drafted into the United States Army in 1961. I retired from the CSX Transportation Railroad Federal Police after thirty-three years in 1999.
Before retirement, I was promoted to division chief and worked cases with the United States Secret Service, Federal Drug Administration, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. I also worked with State county, and local law enforcement agencies.

The "I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets" a great military Adult Fiction Story, all the revenue from this book will be sent to Alzheimer's Researcher in memory of my wife of 58 years-Sandy.

Reviews

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Vietnam War is in full swing, dividing the country and igniting a cultural revolution. Against this backdrop, Air Force Captain Oley Washington’s plane is shot down and he finds himself a POW. Captain Washington is more resourceful than the Viet Kong might have imagined, though. He escapes and is due to receive the Medal of Honor. Before he can take his place as a decorated war hero, he is bludgeoned by a group of protestors and loses his memory. Now a homeless amnesiac, Washington passes out his remaining gasoline pellets to those who befriend him. It is these pellets that might eventually lead to him reclaiming some semblance of his former life.

I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets, by Carl Kegerreis, is a literary oddity. It contains abundant social commentary and more than a touch of the surreal. There are elements of magical realism and several scenes that make the reader question the reliability of what is being related. Some readers might be reminded of the Terry Gilliam movie The Fisher King and its jarring blend of reality and fantasy.

Even as the Vietnam War continues fading into the past, it remains a divisive issue with the American public. Was the country justified in getting involved? Were the returning soldiers heroes or villains? That is one of the quandaries central to this novel, and Kegerreis is subtle enough as a writer not to cast judgment in either direction. Instead, he lets each reader make their own decision not only about the authenticity of Washington as someone deserving of being lauded, but also about whether the US should have invaded in the first place.

Some elements of the story are somewhat ludicrous, such as the amnesia angle, but it’s forgivable because one could make the argument that the reasoning behind the justification for going into Vietnam was likewise laughable. Washington emerges as a tragic figure more than anything else, a bedraggled antihero who still manages to eke out a sliver of humanity after everyone, including himself, has forgotten the point of his very existence.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers experience this story through the perspective of the main character, Captain Oley Washington, delving into his personal mystery while simultaneously contemplating broader themes of memory, identity, and the human condition. The tale opens with a vivid depiction of Captain Oley's capture during the Vietnam War, highlighting his tenacity and cleverness as he manages an escape from captivity. The story takes a sharp and intriguing turn when Oley, after being attacked by war protesters, is afflicted with amnesia. This incident sets the stage for a series of captivating events, all revolving around mysterious green pellets in Oley's possession. The author's background as a war veteran is evident in the narrative's authentic details, effectively portraying the challenges soldiers face in combat. Amidst these harsh realities, the novel also weaves a sense of wonder and intrigue with the mystical green pellets and their unknown abilities. Captain Oley Washington is a meticulously crafted character, rich in depth and complexity. His transformation from a respected war hero to a homeless wanderer is both poignant and fascinating. As Oley struggles with memory loss and seeks to rediscover his identity, the story evolves into a suspenseful journey filled with unexpected developments. Carl Kegerreis's writing style is captivating and descriptive, creating vivid scenes that immerse readers in the novel's world. Beyond its engaging storyline and robust characters, the book also prompts readers to consider profound questions. As Oley uncovers a broader conspiracy, the novel delves into themes of corruption and secrecy, adding another layer of complexity to the plot.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it for its engaging plot, rich character development, and thought-provoking themes.

[Ivan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets, authored by Carl E. Kegerreis, delves into military fiction, enriched by the author's experiences in the military and law enforcement. These real-life insights lend a certain authenticity to the narrative, allowing it to oscillate between the realms of fiction and reality seamlessly. The book does encounter a formatting issue: in several sections, the text is congested with words merged together, complicating the reading experience. This technical problem is a setback, as it hinders the flow and comprehension of what is otherwise an engaging story. It's hoped that this will be rectified soon. The narrative centers on Captain Oley Washington Jr., whose military endeavors lead him to Vietnam. The plot thickens when he and his crew are captured, yet they manage to escape, relying on luck and strategic thinking. The story takes a dramatic turn upon Oley's return to the U.S., where he faces a brutal assault by anti-war protestors. This leaves him with profound amnesia and a peculiar new ability, marking a drastic shift in his life. The novel prompts reflection on themes of war, peace, morality, and the paradox of anti-war violence, presenting a critical view of how modern societies often resort to war as a means of conflict resolution. It's striking to observe the contradiction in how those who oppose war resort to violence, mirroring real-life complexities. The book also comments on the disproportionate allocation of national budgets to military spending, a contentious issue in global politics.

The book intertwines a veteran's tale with sci-fi elements, creating a unique fusion that explores the aftermath of war and the complexities of human morality.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrative challenges traditional storytelling conventions, presenting a rich tapestry of action, intrigue, and mystery that captivates from the first page to its thrilling conclusion. The setting's inherent uncertainty enhances the story's depth, yet it's the narrative itself that brings complexity to the tale. Author Carl Kegerreis demonstrates remarkable imagination and narrative prowess, delivering his story with a fluidity and ease that many authors aspire to. Reading this book was an enthralling experience, consuming my attention for two whole days. While I'm not usually one to fervently recommend books, this one stands out as an exception deserving recognition. The story's ability to maintain suspense and anticipation throughout is noteworthy. Elements like Captain Oley's amnesia, the mysterious green balls, and an overarching conspiracy captivate and hold the reader's attention unwaveringly. Each page unfolds new layers of mystery and suspense, compelling readers to continue turning the pages. Kegerreis's writing skillfully creates an enveloping atmosphere, drawing readers into Captain Oley's world and the mysteries of the green orbs.

This book is more than a tale of self-discovery; it delves deeply into themes of companionship, loyalty, and the search for identity. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and magical elements make it a must-read for lovers of finely crafted literature. This is a book that invites multiple readings, with each visit promising new insights and discoveries.

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this narrative, Air Force Captain Oley Washington's story begins as a typical return from Vietnam, but it quickly transforms into a gripping saga filled with unexpected twists. Washington, brutally beaten by war protesters and left with amnesia, finds himself in possession of an enigmatic package of green pellets that turn into gasoline. The mystery of their origin adds an intriguing layer to the plot, making the reader constantly question what comes next. Initially, I was pleasantly surprised by the book's engaging storyline. It's an easy-to-follow plot, though I did encounter some difficulties due to editing issues. Words were often jumbled together, requiring me to reread paragraphs to grasp the author's intended message. Despite these obstacles, which seem more editorial than the fault of the author, the essence of the story remained unaffected. Kegerreis's writing style really resonated with me. It's rich in empathy, and he masterfully conveys deep emotions through his vivid descriptions. The character of Captain Washington is beautifully crafted—complex and deeply human, drawing the reader into his transformed life. The narrative kept me intrigued, and the elements of mystery were particularly gripping. This book stands out to me because it defied my expectations in the best way possible. I'm keen on surprises from new authors, and this book delivered. Without giving away any spoilers, I can say that the suspenseful and emotional journey of I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets makes for a compelling read.

[Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets" by E. Kegerreis and Carl is an absolute revelation of a novel that gripped me from the very first page. This captivating story of resilience, mystery, and redemption took me on an unforgettable journey alongside Captain Oley Washington, a man who embodies the spirit of survival against all odds.
The authors have crafted a truly unique and compelling narrative, blending elements of war, amnesia, and even a touch of magic realism with the mysterious green pellets that turn into gasoline. The plot unfolds with perfect pacing, keeping me hooked as I followed Oley's journey from a captured POW to a homeless vagabond with a forgotten past.
What truly sets this book apart are the deeply human characters and their interconnected stories. Oley's struggle with amnesia and his resourcefulness in the face of adversity make him a protagonist worth rooting for, while the supporting cast adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the overall narrative.
But it's not just the characters that shine; the themes explored in "I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets" resonate deeply, touching on topics such as identity, kindness, and the power of redemption. The authors handle these themes with sensitivity and depth, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
In the end, this book is so much more than a mystery; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of compassion. I couldn't recommend it highly enough to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and uplifting read.

[Almiria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carl E. Kegerreis's novel I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets presents a refreshingly unique tale centered around former United States Air Force Captain Oley Washington. Set to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor, Washington's life takes a dramatic turn when he is waylaid by misfortune, resulting in him becoming a homeless amnesiac. The story takes an intriguing twist with the introduction of mysterious green pellets capable of producing gasoline, which Washington inexplicably possesses. This element adds a layer of danger and mystery, as these pellets attract the attention of dangerous individuals, putting Washington's life at risk once more. The novel shines with its novel concept and engaging narrative. Kegerreis's writing style is vivid and immersive, providing a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. He skillfully balances fast-paced action with thoughtful character development and world-building, ensuring the story remains grounded and relatable. However, I found the reading experience somewhat marred by formatting issues in the Kindle version. Sentences are awkwardly broken, and words are often squished together without spaces, creating a jarring and disjointed reading experience. This is particularly disappointing as the story itself is compelling. I'm hopeful that these issues will be addressed in a future update, as they detract from an otherwise promising novel.

[Claudia A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carl Kegerreis skillfully weaves together elements of wartime action, science fiction, and mystery in his novel, creating a gripping narrative. The story transitions smoothly from an intense survival scenario in the jungles of Vietnam to an emotional exploration of personal tragedy and societal indifference. Through the character of Washington, who evolves from a celebrated war hero to a forgotten amnesiac, Kegerreis subtly comments on the often overlooked struggles of veterans post-service.
The introduction of mysterious green pellets, which can inexplicably transform into gasoline, introduces an intriguing mystery and serves as a powerful symbol of potential and peril—mirroring the dual nature of untapped or misused resources in our own society. This element invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of such discoveries. While the plot ventures into bold and imaginative territories, especially with the casual acceptance of the miraculous pellets, it encourages readers to fully engage their sense of wonder. Additionally, the brisk resolution of the overarching conspiracy keeps the pace lively, leaving room for thought and further speculation.
This novel is a thought-provoking mix of action, intrigue, and social commentary, encouraging readers to consider deeper themes of memory, identity, and the intrinsic value of individuals beyond their societal roles.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What sets this story apart is the introduction of mysterious green balls that propel Washington into an unexpected adventure. These supernatural elements, woven into the fabric of the narrative, add depth and intrigue, keeping readers engaged as they delve into the mysteries these orbs present. Carl Kegerreis showcases skillful storytelling, balancing suspense, drama, and fantasy elements to craft a compelling and immersive read. The character development of Washington is particularly noteworthy, offering a deep dive into themes of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit's transformative power. The novel's narrative style is both authentic and imaginative, offering a unique reading experience. Each chapter adds to the unfolding mystery of the green balls, weaving in connections and lessons that enrich the storyline. This book is a great read that maintains engagement through to the end. For those seeking a blend of supernatural intrigue and profound human experience, this novel is highly recommended.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

E. Kegerreis's novel I Wish I Had Those Gasoline Pellets introduces readers to the compelling character of Oley Washington, whose intriguing story blends elements of science fiction and drama. The story is anchored by a central mystery: the origin of these enigmatic pellets and the true identity of Oley. These mysteries drive the plot, captivating readers as they delve deeper into the narrative. The book is marked by its engaging storytelling, featuring a mix of sharply drawn characters, clever humor, and a sense of darkness offset by occasional hopeful moments. Carl E. Kegerreis demonstrates a keen ability to explore how the past influences the present and the profound impact of chance encounters on our lives.
This novel has been an enriching read. Its blend of intriguing plot and thoughtful character development makes it a memorable addition to the science fiction genre. I'm eagerly looking forward to exploring more works by E. Kegerreis.