Publisher's Synopsis
"A View From the Bench" is a collection of Paul DiSclafani's favorite stories from his Award-Winning column, "Long Island Living."
If you enjoy reading stories about everyday life by writers like Long Island's Ed Lowe or Dave Barry, this is the book for you. Each story for this collection has been chosen by the author and includes an introduction to give you a little more insight. His stories are simple, quick reads that will entertain you from beginning to end.
His unique writing style has thrilled readers since 2017 with his storytelling ability, ranging from humorous tales to more serious subjects. This collection will take you back to less complicated times, bringing you the sights, sounds, and smells inside his grandmother's kitchen for an Italian Thanksgiving.
Inside this collection, you'll find stories of appliances plotting against him and his never-ending battle with mosquitos and Cave Crickets. Learn about how his father is dating a redhead in heaven or how he lives in a "stupid" house.
Learn about why women married for a long time will never marry again or spend a few hours with him inside the Department of Motor Vehicles. Then, read his letter from the future to his 14-year-old self, or how he will be a multi-millionaire after helping a Nigerian Prince.
Paul's not afraid to share his feelings with his readers. Feel the sadness of losing a relative to the Corona Virus or how viewing a simple photograph of his father brought him to tears.
His columns also tell stories. Read about his Uncle Sammy, a Silver Star recipient and a true hero in World War II. You'll also learn why we should respect the flag and learn about the sacrifices of our veterans. Then, feel the power of Super Storm Sandy as he chronicles the dramatic story of a family's struggle to survive as their home collapsed around them and the streets turned to rivers.
The stories are paced like you would read them in his weekly column. When you turn the page, you never know what you will get.
You'll laugh, you'll cry, and who knows, you might just learn something!
One thing is guaranteed, you will enjoy this journey through the mind of a newspaper columnist...
What readers of "Long Island Living" have to say:
"Paul brings me to the exact spot and same type of people in my earlier life. He has a gift of bringing his readers back to that place in time. He can tell stories so funny and on the nose that you can't put his writings down. What a skilled and funny guy. Always a great read." Bill Mahoney, Levittown, NY
"Paul's articles have something for everyone. They touch upon everyday issues that we have experienced in the past, as well as present-day issues. Always making lite of the situation, he puts a smile on my face!" Steve Del Casino, Florida
"Paul has the ability to open my eyes and make me laugh at the same time." Walter G. Hoefer, The Hamptons, Long Island
"Your articles bring up so many touching memories from my life. I love to see what you are going to write next. What a talent you have to manipulate the English language and turn it into a beautiful story. I have the same words at my disposal that you have, but my writings never come near the level of perfection that yours do. What a lovely gift you have been given! Keep educating and entertaining us!" Leah Gaskin, Long Island
"Paul DiSclafani truly captures the essence of living on Long Island. His everyman perspective and unique sense of humor make each column a delight to read, whether he is discussing the loss of a pet or a colonoscopy. Long Island's answer to Dave Barry." Christine Prudente, Bayside, NY
