Tropic of California: The Strains of Strauss [Paperback]

R. Page Kaufman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 19, 2009

Join definitive tragic character Alan Strauss on a rapidly unfolding satirical romp through glitzy Southern California. This twenty seven year-old divorced ex-shoe salesman and life survivor, temporarily down on his luck, is suddenly lifted up to a high corporate position and offered riches beyond belief. Yet through a stunning twist of fate, Alan learns the true meaning of love and friendship. "Tropic of California" is an entertaining, humorous, and romantic (yes, romantic) look at the human condition - a heartfelt story of one man's courageous journey to wisdom, happiness, and, ultimately, the ever-elusive good life.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Contemporary satirist and native Californian R. Page Kaufman was born raised and schooled in Los Angeles. His experience as a psychotherapist gives him unique insight into both the humorous and tragic side of the human condition and its various interesting manifestations within the Southern California Lifestyle. Author of numerous socio-political essays, he is particularly interested in human communication and love relationships. He is currently living in New Mexico, in his words, taking a well-earned break from the L. A. freeways.

Product Details

• Paperback: 294 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace (August 19, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1441482504
• ISBN-13: 978-1441482501
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,734,078 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Welcome dear readers! Allow me to introduce myself. My pen name is R Page Kaufman and I'm a contemporary satirist and native Californian, born, raised, and schooled in Los Angeles. I've written a novel entitled "Tropic of California" (Savant Books and Publications; Honolulu, Hawaii) an L.A. comedic romance in the Vonnegut style. I like to think that my experience as a psychotherapist gives me a unique insight into both the humorous and tragic side of the human condition and its various intriguing manifestations within the colorful So Cal Lifestyle. I've also authored a number of socio-political essays and am currently putting the final touches on my latest non fiction book about love relationships,intimacy,and how people truly connect. (That's about all I can tell you about that!) I'm currently residing in Santa Fe, New Mexico where I'm performing music (got a jazz CD out on the market)and taking a well-earned break from those crazy L.A. freeways!

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Add to cart, you'll be pleased, September 19, 2009

By 

Gloria Schumann (Austin, TX) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Tropic of California: The Strains of Strauss (Paperback)

I tend to stick to romance novels in general, but do break from them once in awhile. In this case, I'm extremely happy to report that the results were well worth the departure. The story grabbed me and gripped me tighter as I turned the pages. Closing the back cover left me considering what the human spirit can take and how each curve in the road of life contributes to the person that exists presently. I found myself in a place I love to be, in the midst of the conundrums of life. It explores relationships, life and the myriad of ups and downs. The journey is pleasant and the experience thought provoking. Take my word for it, click buy.

Gloria Schumann, author of 'Called Home' a romance novel. (February 2010)

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars You won't be disappointed !, September 21, 2009

By 

Brian D. Morley - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Tropic of California: The Strains of Strauss (Paperback)

I received the book on Friday with the plans of working on the bungalow and reading it during the week.I sat on my porch with a cup of coffee opened the book just to read a little and I was sucked in. Reading the inner struggles of Alan Strauss trying to keep his life on track was extremely entertaining. When everything seems to get in his way, including himself, I could relate, as I bet we all can at times.This is a must read you won't be disappointed.

5.0 out of 5 stars Yes, Go for a Swim! Read, Tropic of California, November 22, 2010

By 

D. Krakover - Lyons - See all my reviews

This review is from: Tropic of California: The Strains of Strauss (Paperback)

Tropic of California caught my eye, just as one would catch a vacation pamphlet and go on an impromptu get-a-way. Truth be told, I am an avid non-fiction science lover. My last five favorite reads were centered on cutting edge technology. As a native of Los Angeles, each location and situation Mr. Kaufman so aptly described struck deep familiarity. I felt I was stepping into a perfectly prepared pool for a wonderful, warm swim.

R. Page Kaufman has illuminated worlds within worlds. Know this; Tropic of California and California Dreamin' are not necessarily fantasies. Watch carefully what you wish for. The funny part is, no matter the station one occupies, people are just people. Blaringly Idolized or Discreetly Quiet, either way, human frailties abound.

The ebb and flow of nature is ever present in Tropic of California. Alan Strauss is metaphorically surfing in Mr. Kaufman's story. I found his descriptive journey a pleasure from beginning to end. Jump in, the water's fine.