The Red Thread

The Red Thread tells the story of a multigenerational family. Lenny, their patriarch, is celebrating his ninety-fifth birthday on the Fourth of July. After much planning for the observance of this day, many unplanned occurrences mar the event. A robbery, a stalking, life and death, and other situations are all included in this thought-provoking story. The story takes place on the east coast of Central Florida and encompasses scenes of the state from decades past. As a young man, Lenny worked cattle on horseback in the wilds of the state. He and his best friend are WWII veterans with a haunting knowledge that has affected their entire postwar lives. The friends' camaraderie during the years is visualized through Lenny's remembrances throughout the day. Troubled Lenny chooses to break his own moral code to his oldest friend. The familial bond between Lenny's four children from two marriages, though sometimes tepid, is strong and binding. Cohesive joint efforts bring solidarity to the family celebration. Temptations to teens are brought to realization and lucidity. Many different emotions erupt during the day, which spans the entire novel! This down-to-earth, wholesome saga showcases mature families, teens, tots, and community members and their respect and acknowledgment of elders and leaders for efforts given for our country that we citizens are proud of today.