The title of this book isn't a philosophical masterpiece; it's more like a loud shout in a library - unexpected, maybe a little scandalous, but oh so relatable! It captures those times when we're all ready to throw our hands up and let out a hearty "Dammit!" You know, like when you stub your toe on the coffee table or step in a puddle while wearing socks (the ultimate betrayal!).
In a world where everything seems to be a crime against humanity - even enjoying pineapple on pizza - this book is a hilarious reflection of life's rollercoaster. We've all had those laughable moments that end with a dramatic flair, right? So, to anyone cringing at the title, I'm not sorry! I said it! I wrote it! And I'm as proud as a cat that just knocked something off a shelf!
The stories "The Devil You Say," "The Medium," and "The Cemetery" are like a mystery box - one where you might find a pair of socks, a rubber chicken, or a lingering question about your life choices.
In "What Did You Say," you 'll follow a character who navigates the delightful chaos of growing old, which is basically like trying to put together IKEA furniture without the instructions - frustrating and ultimately not worth it!
"Moving Again" and "Goof" are perfect if you despise moving or have a passion for golf. Spoiler alert: the golf ball will always end up in a bush, and moving will remind you why you swore you 'd never do it again... until someone offers you pizza.
Then there are "Love" and "Love Too," which will have you feeling all the feelings like when you see your ex at the grocery store and must dodge the cereal aisle like it's a scene from a heist movie.
Lastly, in "Pandemic," Tom shares his thoughts on COVID-19, reminding us all that social distancing is just an unplanned introvert convention. And don't you dare forget the jokes sprinkled throughout - because sometimes laughter is the only thing that can help you forget where you left your glasses (hint: they're on your head).
Dammit, put down your snack, stop scrolling, and buy the book! Your future self will thank you (and probably high-five you accidentally from across the room).
Tom Rose, Thomas L. Rose, was born in Peru Indiana, to Norman and Donna (Hipskind) Rose. He has two younger sisters, Jacquelyn (Rose) Roberts (deceased) and Jill (Rose) England. The family moved from Peru to Goshen, Indiana where he still resides. He married Joyce Grissom in 1962. Their son Brock was born in 1964. Brock and his wife, Rose, have a daughter Amanda (Rose). Tom worked in advertising and marketing most of his life and actually still does today with his son, Rose and Rose Associates. With his wife Joyce he co-authored two cookbooks: Cooking Together Chinese Style and Cooking Together Quick and Easy. They also hosted a cooking segment on the local Fox TV affiliate for 13 years. During that time they toured the Midwest teaching cooking classes. After his wife's death Tom, with help from his son, authored a third cookbook, Cooking Together Revisited, which is dedicated to Joyce with the proceeds going to the family's Breast Cancer Support Projects. The family produces a YouTube cooking show, Cooking Together Generations, to help promote their Breast Cancer Support Projects. The website is: www.cookingtogether.com Following the death of his wife a friend, after reading Tom's grief journal notes, suggested he write a book. His book Balloon in a Box: Coping with Grief, was released in the spring of 2022. As Tom says, "I caught lightning in a bottle." The book, after several printings and now republished as an updated second edition, has led Tom to a speaking career. He has made appearances at churches, service organizations and even drug rehab programs sharing his grief journey. Tom enjoys playing golf and listening to music, all kinds. He takes great pleasure in cooking with his family and for friends. His dinner parties are designed to produce stimulating conversation. In addition to Dammit!, Tom has also written the murder mystery novel The Secret is in the Pasta.