The Presence of Things Past

Set in a 1950s and 1960s Midwestern neighborhood, the narrative reflects on the author's upbringing in Des Moines, sparked by the poignant loss of his mother. Through sensitive reminiscences, it explores first loves, childhood friendships, and a diverse cast of characters, revealing their simple joys and hidden sorrows. The work serves as a heartfelt tribute to the author's mother, neighborhood, city, and the innocence of childhood, evoking a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time.