1959: In Search of Eldorado [Paperback]

E. P. Ned Burke (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 13, 2004

Jerry Killian is a mixed-up, seventeen-year-old prep student who believes he killed his senile grandmother. His low self-esteem produces many comical moments as he struggles with his fervent desire to experience sex with another human being. His Prom night seduction episode ends in a fiasco. He questions the mores of his strict Irish Catholic upbringing and what part fate plays in his existence. When Cathy, his first love, breaks up with him he suffers a complete breakdown.With the help of his nerdy friends, he becomes emotionally strong enough to challenge his sadistic basketball coach and ends up as the school hero. Then, just as it appears his life is in order, he learns the tragic truth about Cathy. His new friend, Carrie, tries to help, but only the extended hand of Bob, his mentor and therapist, can save him.Will Jerry take it?In The Hero of Barryton, Jerry's grandfather, Patrick O'Connor, had to face many obstacles. In this follow-up novel, O'Connor's grandson has his own demons to conquer. Unfortunately, young Jerry doesn't possess his grandfather's strength. He must rely on his family, friends, and his own sense of humor to win the final battle toward maturity.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

E. P Burke served as editor of various newspapers and magazines for 30 years. He published three of his own magazines before he ?retired? to devote more time to writing. His first novel, The Hero of Barryton, was published in 2002. He resides in Florida with his wife, Carrillee, and their cat, Maggie.

Product Details

• Paperback: 202 pages
• Publisher: iUniverse (January 13, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0595299458
• ISBN-13: 978-0595299454
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,769,065 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Memorable, April 7, 2004

By 

susan rauch (Wilmington, DE) - See all my reviews

This review is from: 1959: In Search of Eldorado (Hardcover)

This should go right to film as the absorbing feel good movie of the year. I found myself liking this character so much I just couldn't help feeling his pain, uncertainties, and joys. I laughed at his humor, was touched by his tenderness, and cheered for him. This is an enjoyable and touching read of a boy's journey to manhood in 1959.

5.0 out of 5 stars A fun romp through the past, February 7, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: 1959: In Search of Eldorado (Hardcover)

Every tale, from short story to novel, must have a voice that captures readers. Jerry Killian caught my attention from the opening sentence. He's an adult when the book opens, looking back on his life, one year in particular, but the voice slipped easily into the past, 1959, and took me with him. If you were a teenager during the 50s, you'll identify with E. P. Burke's nostalgic, coming-of-age novel. The language, movies, music, clothing and hairstyles authenticate the era and bring back memories.

Despite Jerry's problems, some of them typical teenage angst, others serious, there's fun and humor and some downright laugh-out-loud scenes. I'm looking forward to Burke's next book.