The Best Book I've Read This Year Is Out!

I’ve talked a number of times here on the blog about Hesh Kestin’s fantastic The Iron Will of Shoeshine Cats, from one of my favorite indie presses, Dzanc. I read the ARC for Cats at least six months ago, and the book is still fresh in my mind, which in itself makes this novel plug-worthy now that launch time is upon us. Haven’t read any good fiction lately? Go out and buy “The Iron Will of Shoeshine Cats,” and don’t blame me when you don’t get anything done for two days.

This unlikely tale of Jewish mobsters avoids all the clichés of the genre. The story is thoroughly engaging and masterfully told, and the writing kicks ass in a hard-nosed Budd Schulberg kinda’ way. I’m rooting for this book to get the attention it deserves—and then I’m going to take credit for it. And no, I don’t have crush on Hesh Kestin. I’ve never even met the guy.

je

Related posts:

1. The Iron Will of Shoeshine Cats Jonathan Evison: As somebody published by little old Soft Skull, I understand firsthand the challenges an indie press faces in garnering exposure for its authors. But the good presses are...
2. Two in the Queue – What I'm Reading This Week Jonathan Evison: I’m midway through reading two novels at present, both of which came as recommendations from editors I greatly admire–one a commercial editor, and the other an indie editor–both...
3. What I Read Tuesday Alex Beam gives a scathing account of self-publishing in the Boston Globe. Contrast it with Lev Grossman’s essay on Publishing in the Digital Age. Discuss. You can always count...
4. When We Fell In Love – Hesh Kestin Hesh Kestin’s novel, The Iron Will of Shoeshine Cats (Dzanc), has been described as “The Godfather meets The Chosen.” The poignant coming-of-age story of a bookish college student adopted by...
5. Rev Road – JE's take Jonathan Evison: Recently, DH commented on my inclination to read books which, whether due to their style, approach, subject matter, or otherwise, dwell outside of my comfort zone as a...