Heroine and an intriguing tale of Celtic Mythology Bayshore Courier News Posted:07/29/10
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Red Bank – Author Wallace Jan Ecklof will be launching his new book "The Last Celtic Angel." Ecklof studied Creative Writing at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.
The main character in the book, Deanna Gaynor, a woman approaching 40, is a proud single mom, holding it together for her family. She is on a quest of self-discovery, a need to prove her self-worth while seeking fulfillment both personally and professionally. As an honest journalist, she seeks the truth and uncovers secret after secret, held by nearly every resident in Rancho de Los Angels. And as the facts start to unravel, it all collides into one powerful conclusion, where destinies are tied.
For twenty-five years, author Wallace Jan Ecklof lived in Wellington, Florida where he competed in the many horse events held in one of the nation's top equestrian areas. He had been involved with Horses for the Handicap and experienced what these big beautiful animals could do for people with disabilities, especially with children. This was when the idea of The Last Celtic Angel came to him, while training people with physical and emotional handicaps.
"I have just finished reading The Last Celtic Angel...and would recommend it to all ages as a 'Good Read.' It was like an excellent meal that entertained the pallet until the last course and desert; leaving you satisfied and content. When I finished the last chapter it left me wanting more. You have captured the mood of the equestrian events and depict certain social problems that do exist, but in an entertaining style of fiction," said Janis Murphy, Acreage Horsemen's Assoc. Palm Beach County, FL.
Rich in subject matter, the book boldly addresses many significant issues in our society, profound in their existence, but rarely discussed. These topics are expertly woven into the story of a heroine and an intriguing tale of Celtic Mythology.
Deanna's personal story is one, which includes an issue that is both poignant and challenging in our society - our children are in emotional crisis. Katie, Deanna's daughter, attempts suicide and becomes a student of James Doyle's unconventional therapy; he's the mysterious man who runs the rehabilitation center for teens. The center includes children with a vast array of emotional, physical and psychological traumas; ranging from physical abuse, molestation, divorce and family issues, serious health problems, various traumatic experiences and concerns with identity and self-esteem. "Problems such as these puts children into shells for the rest of their lives, unless someone teaches them how to cope," said Ecklof.
This book also sheds some light on common misconceptions accompanying "legal" aliens and immigrants in American culture. "People are discriminated against when they are honest contributing members of our society." The book tries to point out this class distinction, something that is not acknowledged. "It's as if the people of this culture are invisible," said Ecklof. “Rosa, an immigrant and main character in the book explains..."you must understand we come here not looking for handouts, but to earn the right stay."
Fighting over multi-million dollar land deals, romantic conflicts and how the "Justice" system is a paid-for service rather than representing our rights, are among the many subjects so skillfully and artistically employed in this story. Additionally, there are unforgettable characters in a non-stop, fast paced story, leading to an ending that commands your attention and won't disappoint.
Ecklof is currently working on a screenplay and operates a writer's website. Ecklof will be launching his new book on August 20 at NovelTeas, Red Bank. Located at 78 Bridge Avenue, opposite the Red Bank train station. Book signing begins at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets include a copy of "The Last Celtic Angel," wine and cheese reception, author presentation and audience Q&A discussion.
For more information on the event, call 732.747.8800 or visit novelteas.org.
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