Stanley Gordon West crafts narratives that delve into the vulnerabilities at both ends of the human lifespan. His novels, often steeped in specific past eras, explore intricate relationships and societal issues with a keen eye for detail. West's distinctive style imbues his settings with a palpable sense of time and place, drawing readers deeply into the worlds he creates. His work consistently tackles profound themes, reflecting a dedication to giving voice to the defenseless.
Set in 1949 St. Paul, MN, the story captures the essence of a hopeful post-war era, where the charm of streetcars and the rise of drive-ins define the city. It reflects a time before the advent of the internet and shopping centers, showcasing a close-knit community that has yet to embrace suburban life. The narrative immerses readers in the unique cultural landscape of the period, highlighting the simplicity and connections of urban living during a transformative time in American history.
1949A story about a boy who made a solemn vow and became a man keeping it. Saint Paul/Minneapolis - Those unforgettable days after World War II when people turned back to their personal lives with optimism, a time of Fibber McGee and Molly , newsreels, milkmen, boogie-woogie, The Best Years of Our Lives and chrome grilled automobiles. Against this evocative backdrop, Staley West composes this heartrending song, bittersweet lyrics that will lift your spirit, touch your heart and leave you humming… wishing it wouldn’t end. In one fateful moment, Donny Cunningham comes face to face with unthinkable horror, when his live caves in on him. Changed forever. The task of raising his brothers and sister falls to him when his mother dies. A senior at St. Paul Central, he does whatever it takes to keep his family together, while his father leads them ever closer to disaster. Surrounded aby his zany and lionhearted siblings, his fun-loving friends, and hoping to find love and understanding from his high school sweetheart, Donny is caught between the law – which has a claim on his young brother – and the gangsters – who have a claim on his father. This humor and daring and grit, he fights the dragon of regret with an inner courage and strength that belies his physical stature. (Stanley West)
In the struggling town of Willow Creek, a glimmer of hope emerges as Sam Pickett teams up with five young men. Together, they embark on a journey that promises to transform their lives and uplift their community, challenging the harsh realities they face. This story explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
