Books with author David Calver

This captivating collection of nine short stories by Kiwi-American writer David Calder (REDEMPTION COVE, THE CHILDREN OF THE NAKBA,) transports the reader from the crests of the Andes to the streets of Sydney, Australia, and across prairies on the steel steeds of the new cowboys of the American West. Also to the terrible frozen wastes of a Europe torn by evil and war, through the looking glass into the angst-filled mind of youth, and down through time to the ponderings of the father of modern thinking. The journey is sure to intrigue, amuse, illuminate; and above all: entertain.

Poetry is able to polish a thought and make it perfect, while empowering moments in time to live forever. A poem allows contrasting thoughts to be powerfully juxtaposed and shine clearly, in a way that would muddle longer work. The best poems carry emotion from line to line in the least possible number of words. And poetry, like song, can touch you in an instant and carry you magically to a special place and time. This collection spans many stages and aspects of my life. The awkwardness of youth perhaps. Dealing with the overpowering wonder of love. And the bitterness of loss. The fragility of things cared deeply for. Also those emotions that have redirected, inspired and endured in my life.

It’s the height of the Lebanese Civil War. Powerful opposed forces threaten to turn the entire middle east into a giant conflagration. Egypt has declared peace on Israel. Fatah’s drive for a Palestinian homeland will be derailed unless that’s reversed quickly. Terrorist leader Abu Jihad sees his life’s work and the source of his personal power, discarded. Israel is at a weak moment timing and security-wise. A conflict between their Army and Police has come to a head over who protects civilians. And it’s Shabbat. Innocent people are enjoying their lives. Jihad sets his killing teams loose, and it’s up to a few poorly armed soldiers and traffic policemen to protect the nation as they rampage south towards vulnerable Tel Aviv. Who will win the apocalyptic showdown?