James Kevin Garraty, professor of history, Columbia University, circa March 2000

Are you looking for a heartfelt read that will tug at your heartstrings and make you reflect on the pivotal moments in your own life? Look no further than “Reunion: A Story” by Yours Truly. This compelling novella has captivated readers with its poignant tale of love, regret, and teenage angst. Don’t just take my word for it – hear what others have to say about this unforgettable story.

One possible version of Jim Garraty as a high school senior in June of 1983. Rendered by DALL-E 3 based on prompts by the author

It is June 1983. Jim Garraty is a senior at South Miami Senior High. He’s a staff writer for the school paper, a college-bound scholar who plans to become a historian and author of books on military history. He’s well-liked by his peers and teachers, and his future looks bright.

But as commencement draws near for the Class of 1983, Jim must deal with unfinished business. The girl he loves from afar is also graduating, and rumor has it that she is going away for the summer before starting college in the fall. Worse still, Marty doesn’t know how deeply Jim’s feelings for her are – unless he tells her. But when an opportunity arises on the last day of classes at South Miami High, Jim hesitates…and the window of opportunity closes.

 Now, 15 years later, James Garraty is an up-and-coming history professor whose literary career is on the rise. Respected by his fellow faculty members, liked by his students, and recipient of popular and critical acclaim, Jim has it all. Except for one thing. True love. – Kindle Edition blurb

One of my friends and fellow review writer, Kurt Messick, with his copy of “Reunion: A Story”

5.0 out of 5 stars Leaves you longing for more.

Reviewed in the United States on July 15, 2018

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Reunion is a wonderful story that leaves you longing for just a little bit more. It’s a glimpse into the life of an extraordinary yet wholly relatable man; seeing his choices unravel, it leaves you to question everything you’ve done in your own life, and more importantly, what you’ve not done.
Excellent work by Mr. Diaz-Granados! – Becky Castellanos Castilla

5.0 out of 5 stars High school memories!

Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2018

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Reunion: A Story is a sweet, sometimes bittersweet story of days gone by. It takes the reader back to the last day of high school and tells the tale of teen love and missed opportunities. Several years pass and success and time don’t always dull those feelings you had as a teen. Mr. Diaz-Granados captures the awkwardness of young love and how it can influence the rest of your life. – Betsy Matteis

The cover art for the Kindle e-book edition. (C) 2018, 2023 Alex Diaz-Granados and Kindle Direct Publishing

5.0 out of 5 stars The big “what if”

Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2020

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A successful history professor is forced to confront the fact that he allowed a love interest to slip away because of insecurity as well as because of the lure of promising opportunities. This novella presents a profound “what if” scenario that is poignantly but beautifully told. It is a sad love story about regret and loss but also a story about friendship. The book reminds us about how differently a teenager and an adult views life and themselves and what the consequences could be.

The character development is excellent. The characters have personality and depth. The author describes the feelings and the thoughts of the characters in a manner that is both realistic and easy to relate to. The story is compelling and well written, it draws you in, and it has something important to tell us, especially young people.

I was planning to read it over a couple of days, but after I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down, so I read it in one sitting. Later on, I read it again, more than once, which is why I updated this review. It is a really great story, one of the best I’ve ever read, and you can read many times. I highly recommend it. – Thomas Wikman


Comments

2 responses to “‘Reunion: A Story’ – Selected Reviews by Amazon Readers”

  1. Thank you so much, Alex, for including my review!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You’re welcome!

      I included it not just because it’s a fine review, but also for its in-depth look at the book beyond the nice compliments in the shorter reviews. Your insights into your reading experiences might influence a potential reader into buying a copy.

      Liked by 1 person