Brushes With Life-a Checkered Journey

About the Book

Is a person’s essence shaped by self determination and direction or…is it the amalgamation of the persons, places and events that shape the whole? In “Brushes With Life – A Checkered Journey” we are permitted to stand to the side of a man’s life and watch the journey. In the end we can decide for ourselves which drives the process…or, is it a contentious marriage of both.

“Brushes With Life – A Checkered Journey” introduces Shaun McKenzie, an entrepreneur on the other side of middle age, and chronicles his passage from childhood in Burma (Myanmar) to middle age in America. He is, for better or worse, a take-no-prisoners individual, a double-edged sword in our contemporary world. He moves easily and confidently through it, but is frequently the agent of flinty sparks which illuminate his relationships.

The answer to our question requires the introduction of a cast of indelible characters, contributing influences to Shaun’s personal and professional life.

Among them are:

John Ericson, a business antagonist, whose “hostile” intentions collide with Shaun's capitalistic flair and philosophy.

Mary McKenzie, his mother, a Northern Irish colleen, the rear guard of the family and the genteel force behind Shaun’s self reliance and determination – quiet, strong…a lion in sheep’s clothing.

Malcolm McKenzie, Shaun’s enigmatic father. He is a proud, distinctive man, a member of British intelligence in Burma during World War II. The separations marking their relationship leave Shaun stained by guilt and self-denial.

Maggie O’Connell, Shaun’s “Auntie Mame” –she challenges life, its participants, and existing protocols with equal portions of disregard and aplomb. Her assault on the dental profession gives new meaning to “painless” dentistry.

Master Ne Win, Shaun’s childhood Martial Arts instructor. His ancient teachings combined with a flare for the impish mark Shaun with a yardstick for living.

Mickey Mason, a student to Shaun’s Pygmalion. She trades her employee status for intimate equality.

Jean Crimmins, a college lover. Shaun returns years later, attempting to heal the joint lesions left by his arrogance and conceit, but “going back” exacts an unexpected toll.

About the Author

Mr. Russel currently resides in Lewes, Delaware, the first town in the first state. His life is marked by the good, and the bad influences that have touched his journey. His zest for life is only matched by the challenge of a great gold course, his appreciation of a superbly prepared meal married to an appropriate wine, and the twists and turns of a good novel. His path is warmed and embellished by his family and friends and blessed by the occasions when their paths cross.