A Golden Weekend
Larry Carello
Lakedge Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9802284-0-3
204 Pages
Many individuals resist change, wanting to cling to
that which is comfortable, familiar, and gives them a sense of security and
belonging. Adults sometimes return to the hometown of their childhood,
wanting things to be the same, but they seldom are. In A Golden
Weekend by Larry Carello, the author takes readers from the present to
the future and briefly back to the past through the main characters of the
Rosco family. What appears to be a tragedy for Mel Rosco when he loses his
business on Indian Lake in New York is soon followed by what proves to be a
wonderful opportunity. But it involves a move—a move to North Carolina
where he will begin a new profession. He, his wife, two sons, and daughter
would be starting over.
What had caused the fire that destroyed his
concession stand? Mel had slowly unraveled the mystery as to why the
Shack—a landmark on the beach at Indian Lake—had burned to the ground.
For twenty years he, with the help of his family, had catered to those who
craved old style French fried potatoes, hot dogs, and beverages. Although
Mel struggled financially, he and his family had always been happy with
their lives and were appreciative of one another.
Mel’s values and goals were unlike those of his
half-brother Jimmy. Mel was a down-to-earth person who worked very hard,
treated people well, and enjoyed his wonderful family. Although his brother
Jimmy was involved in many businesses and successful in running the
Shoreline Inn, a popular restaurant on the beach, his life was far from
perfect. He and his wife were growing apart, and they had an overweight son
who was spoiled to the point of being obnoxious. Mel had been unsuccessful
in forming any type of bond with his half-brother, and this troubled him.
It was evident that the two of them shared nothing in common except for the
same biological father who had been deceased for years.
The author’s words give life to the many secondary
characters who work and play at Indian Lake; they each add to the storyline
and, for the most part, are likable. The actions of the young are usually
age-appropriate, clearly depicted, and bring about laughter. For many
adults, there will be a rekindling of past memories. A few of the minor
characters appear to be somewhat unconventional. There is one young worker
who had grown up in a mental institution where he didn’t belong. My heart
went out to him which means Mr. Carello did a good job in evoking emotions
through characterization.
When Mel Rosco’s business burned down during that
unforgettable weekend of July 4th—a weekend that was supposed to
be golden—Jimmy did not offer to help his brother in any way. He knew Mel
had counted on the profits to keep him financially afloat but simply didn’t
care. Jimmy appeared to have a heart of stone.
Readers will cheer when Mel discovers something that
could have seriously hurt the reputation of his half-brother, but will not
be surprised as to what he does with his findings. He protects his brother,
trying one final time to reach out to him before leaving for North
Carolina. Because Jimmy is materialistic, he doesn’t comprehend his
brother’s kindness and tries to pay him “hush” money.
Although uprooting his family was difficult for Mel
Rosco, it proves to be a wise move for all of them. Out of the ashes of
the past, a successful future is built by all members of his family. The
ending proves that home is not a location but a place where love thrives.
This book is great in that it has appeal to all adults,
regardless of age. I consider it family reading at its best and recommend
it as a “must read.” It is well-written and very entertaining. Keep an
eye on this author as I believe he has tremendous potential.
Bettie Corbin Tucker
For IP Book Reviewers
June 9, 2008
