BANDAGES

When his father passed at 12, Mr. Terrelle Washington grew up fast and survived the dangerous streets of East Chicago, Indiana. After finding out his deceased father left him a large inheritance, he decided to leave for California and achieve his dream of becoming a published author. However, the land of Hollywood stars was soon transformed into a maze of unforeseen obstacles he never expected on his way to the top. How will it play out??? Will he achieve his dream, or will it be shattered into a nightmare of failure.

The Writer's Block, by Joe McClain, is a well-written, fast paced book. The title is intriguing, since it suggests for any writer, the inability to write. Something is blocking the creativity of the writer. With this book, however, that is far from being true, as its creativity is highly evident at each turn of the page. A look at the author's bio, which includes his philosophy of writing, is self-explanatory. Author Joe McClain's writing is influenced by his life experiences, which forms a unique parallel between him and his story. This helps him to develop the premise of the story itself in much greater authenticity and depth than would have been otherwise possible. At the end of the day, we ask ourselves how much is fact and how much is fiction. This remains only for the author to know. Yet the fact that we are asking this question suggests how well the author has created a cultural artefact which engaged the readers imagination and attention. It is superbly well done.Having said that about this enjoyable story, I must admit I am left with one final question in my mind. "What's next?" Clearly, there is more. I would love to ready a part two? I want to know what happened after the books? Did Mr. Terrelle Washington move on to another project? How's the relationship with the woman? I look forward eagerly to reading more from Joe McClain and Uprock Publications. Highly recommended. Reviewed by Thomas Jerome Baker Author of "I Live In Chile"

• Interview for novel BANDAGES