Look Them in the Eyes

NEW BOOK RELEASE!

Look Them in the Eyes
Dennis Mantin. Friesen Press, 2023

There are thirty-two ways to write a story, and I’ve used every one, but there is only one plot—things are not as they seem.

Jim Thompson

Following the birth of his daughter, Jackie, middle-aged Zach MacIver is determined to stop what he terms “intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction” from plaguing his family. Over the course of two years, from the time Jackie is eight until she turns ten, Zach recounts his life experiences to her while attempting to navigate the obstacles created by her mother, Tina, who is experiencing her own version of intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction. The story begins during the COVID-19 pandemic when the world and its inhabitants face mounting daily trials and life-altering decisions. From there the narrative proceeds in a non-linear fashion as Zach recounts the roots of his own dysfunction and how his love for his daughter and his desire to be a good father forced him to face his difficulties head on. American author Jim Thompson once wrote, “There are thirty-two ways to write a story, and I’ve used every one, but there is only one plot—things are not as they seem.” This story is a great reminder of that.


Available now to purchase in eBook, paper, and hardcover from Amazon, Friesen Press, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Google Play, and Kobo.

ACCOLADES

Book I wish I could read again for the first time!
Dennis Mantin’s clean characterisation breathes life into the narrative, the realistic portrayal adds to the reader’s understanding of the book’s profound messages on life and people. What’s compelling about the novel is the the Protagonist’s journey, his perspective on “intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction” and how he’s determined to stop that from plaguing his family. The story is neatly told from Zach’s( the protagonist) perspective. It’s a non linear narrative with characters virtually jumping off the page. The characters, their presentation and Mantin’s unique writing style offer readers a fresh and deep perspective.
—Anuradha Basu, Amazon, November 21, 2023

Some Harsh Truths…

“I love Vietnamese culture. Proud, loyal, family… “

She told me, “Your words and your heart don’t match.”

I told her, “You don’t understand half of what I’m saying, so…. it might be just miscommunication.”

I knew she might have a point.

Maybe my words were just posturing

My actions are the tell

Ah, so much to learn…

Dennis Mantin

Bad Stale Air

I used to smoke cigarettes, breathe that Bad Stale Air.

I used to do a lot of things with no pride and little care.

It’s part of life regardless, been through what I learned.

Those mistakes I don’t dwell on, saw many shadows burned.

It may have looked confusing however please no good to dwell.

There is value in remember but the seeds of shame don’t sell.

Don’t know where I’m going but this life it has been real.

Even when I don’t recall, where I made my way by feel.

Dennis Mantin

Druthers

The rains have left for sunshine.

It is cool for late in May.

Her voice it rings in my head.

Like it did all yesterday.

Some days are better than others.

Some nights are cool and still.

And if I had my druthers.

There’d be peace amidst tranquil.

Dennis Mantin

Payday At The Gulag

It’s payday at the Gulag… There are smiles raining down.

The dealers here, peddling dreams. Anticipation is all the sound.

It’s chaos until midnight. When Cinderella hears a moan.

She was in the Masters dark room, where she thought they were alone.

It’s over like it started. Alarm clocks ring at dawn.

We move like it’s all over… It’s just the money that’s all gone.

Dennis Mantin

A Voice Like Mother

She had a voice like mother… with a low sweet cadence drawl.

The kind that makes one shudder like a noose before the fall.

I searched for strength to hold back. I didn’t know how or what.

She caught me in that moment where I tried and failed to shut.

I wasn’t sure her motive, however I felt that it was planned.

I lost my will to say goodbye and then I lost my will to stand.

I left things as they started, all bright eyed and confused.

I left alone with my life more black and blue than bruised.

Dennis Mantin

Mad Willie

Mad Willie is giving stock tips.

Mad Willie wants it rich.

He gave it up for love and fam.

And fame which is a bitch.

Mad Willie he tells me stories.

Mad Willie makes me howl.

He has what I’d call unique views.

But he’s throwing in the towel.

No more work for Willie.

The big score will come in.

He has it all and keeping faith.

Let the leisure time begin!

Dennis Mantin

Topsy-Turvy

There’s a stress that’s in my throat now: I try to call it out by name.

And has shown over time to me. That after, I’ll never be the same.

There is no rhyme or reason. Like the Nile can’t find the source.

I know it came from someone… You? Yes! Of course of course.

I’ve been searching for this feeling… The kind I get when I’m alone.

And if I need to reach out… I’m sure your hands are on the phone.

Don’t you take it personal now. Cause you know I’ve had enough.

Please tell me about your feelings and all that really high-brow stuff.

There’s no moral to this story. Few winners can be found.

Just the world seems topsy-turvy, and Love is losing ground.

Dennis Mantin

Wicked Wanda

Wicked Wanda’s telling stories and none of them are true.

She has her Heroes riled up and they’re coming for me and you.

Now I can’t say I’m worried because I’ve dealt with this before.

You see I knew her older sister and her Mother I adore.

But for you I’d make provisions, set affairs and say goodbyes.

When Wanda’s on the war path, there’s no running from those lies.

Dennis Mantin