THE BOOK OF STORY RHYMES
Tales of Unpredictable People and the Baggage they Carry
from the quirky mind of Dena Stewart
TALES OF UNPREDICTABLE PEOPLE AND THE BAGGAGE THEY CARRY
While riding public transit I studied all the faces of strangers going somewhere and envisioned to what places.
I’d overhear them talking and without being too rude would listen quite intently, never to intrude.
I’d guess from their expressions if they were distressed, then give them my reality based on the way they dressed.
Waiting on a standing line or walking on the street inspired me to think about folks I’d never meet.
This book’s a compilation of fictitious observations. A mix of desperation and mindful aspirations.
There may be hints of humor or a negative summation, with fast-paced, rhyming tales with twists to blow your expectation!
Published by IQ Media Press
Released: JUNE 1, 2021
“Letting Go of Baggage”
painting by Dena Stewart
Why I wrote THE BOOK OF STORY RHYMES
I don’t think in rhyme, except some of the time. So why write this Book? Rhyming gave it a hook. I enjoy watching strangers and picture their dangers. The stories are fiction, tales of lives filled with friction. The people are wrecks, their dynamics, complex. These yarns do awaken thoughts not before shaken. To stand out from the rest, this Book is my test to see what is best to create interest.
I quit corporate clamber, and editing grammar, to be a teacher – but never a preacher. I’m also an artist, known to try my hardest. My paintings are bold, many have been sold. One’s a UNICEF card, considered five-starred. As shown on this cover, there are clues to discover what gives me satisfaction – “a peaceful reaction.”
I’m inspired to write to make my day bright. I admit I have quirks, doing what I think works. I strive for success and won’t settle for less.
BACK COVER:
“Dena Stewart’s Book of Story Rhymes is a delight. I started smiling on page one, knowing I was in the hands of an author graced with wit and style.” Barney Rosenzweig, Emmy Award winning producer, and author of Cagney & Lacey…and Me
“Dena Stewart is a skilled storyteller with a unique style that captivates as it takes you on a journey through the life of incredible characters.” Rossie Cortes, USA Today Bestselling author
Reviews
“Unique and original, The Book of Story Rhymes is a treasure chest full of enchanting tales that delight and sparkle. Each saga, with its fast-paced cadence, takes the reader on a different journey keeping us riveted until the very last verse.” Mandy Urena, best-selling author of If These Hands Could Talk: The Girl who Touched the World
Congratulations. I pre-ordered the book when it first advertised for available purchase. I started reading today.. So glad that I ordered it. Such a beautiful, thoughtful, entertaining book of stories with great reading rhythmic tones. Can’t wait to read more. Leaving town tomorrow, will carry with me. JoMarie Payton-Downs, award-winning Actress
“Like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, one of the oldest attractions at the Disneyland Resort, Dena Stewart takes you on some crazy, exciting and surprising adventures in her new book, The Book of Story Rhymes. As the cover of her book suggests, her “tales of unpredictable people and the baggage they carry,” do not disappoint. She also describes herself as having a “quirky mind,” and that, as well, cannot be refuted. Each of her 31 stories told in 4-line rhyming stanzas, catapults you into the intricate lives of people from various cultures and different walks of life. In every story, Ms. Stewart slowly unwraps the trials and tribulations of each protagonist. As the events of their lives unfold, the reader can only surmise what will happen next. The tales are artfully woven and each one will keep you guessing from start to finish. The story of “The Little Wood Flute” set in Germany, takes you on a journey from World War II and beyond. It is filled with love, passion, loss, danger, confrontation, achievement and astonishing revelations. As I came to the end of the story entitled “Finn and Ginger,” my final thought was, “Wow, I did not see that coming!” Dena Stewart has created a beautiful book filled with love and imagination. Her stories are quite unique, and even if you are not a fan of rhymes, the book is certainly worth a look. ” June I. Dressler, retired Counselor/Teacher of Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing students
“Dena Stewart weaves words together with the grace and style of a songwriter who masterfully puts lyrics to music.” Ruth DiTucci, Marketing Director, Bankcoin Reserve, LLC, former Professor, Outreach Program, Columbia University
“The stories in rhyme are not only delightful to read, each one has a message that is thought provoking.” Barbara Berg, former Advertising Copywriter.
“Dena Stewart’s book of original rhyming stories delivers all of the elements common to great storytelling. It entertains with a bevy of intriguing characters, inspires, and most important, leaves the reader with the task of deciding on an apropos moral. All of her characters face meaningful and difficult choices, and that’s what makes this book a delightful read. Every unique story takes us on a poetic journey which explores the trials and tribulations of many diverse and developed characters who manifest fortitude, vulnerability, resourcefulness, grief, gullibility and dauntlessness. We applaud and celebrate their achievements and sacrifices, forgive their mistakes and shortcomings, and are sometimes astounded by some of their shocking revelations. Many of Ms. Stewart’s stories weave a complicated web, and when all is said and done, we may find ourselves elated or even disappointed with the outcome. In an effort to avoid experiencing negative emotions, her characters attempt to modify their behaviors in unpredictable ways. However, their decisions to do so will always have inevitable consequences. In the story, “If You’re In It, ” Gail, the main character, reaps her rewards of a hard-earned life. On the contrary, “The Lenny Saga” proves that life isn’t always fair.” Alice Dressler Orlow, retired Teacher Exceptional Education, M-DCPS.
“I love stories that have quirky characters and twists and turns in the narrative. Especially stories that have something to say so you think about them after you’re finished. That’s the best way to describe what’s in store when you read STORY RHYMES. They are all short stories, and my problem was that I could not read just one. Excellent bingeing material for a summer afternoon.” Stewart Stewart, Artist/Actor, Host of Alive on South Beach
“The Book of Story Rhymes,” is a clever, delightful, charming read. Absolutely fascinating how the author can make a detailed story on a variety of subjects and it all rhymes! I found my favorites and read them over and over -” Who Am I,” terrific! “Too Little – Too Late,” a rhyming tale of an entire lifetime. “If You’re In It,” a lottery must read! I’m looking forward to when I can purchase “Story Rhymes Two,” in the future. Pamela Mayer
Complicated stories based on real events are spun out in a rhyming cadence that never fails to keep its stride. Stewart charms with her mellifluous tones, before startling the reader with a twist of her storytelling abilities. You can’t get enough of these delightful morsels as each selection brings you deeper into the author’s world of rhymes and realities.” Irene Sperber, Contributing Arts writer, MiamiArtZine.com
The Book of Story Rhymes Available:
AMAZON Paperback: The Book of Story Rhymes: Stewart, Dena: 9781955468039: Amazon.com: Books
AMAZON Hardcover: The Book of Story Rhymes: Stewart, Dena: 9781955468022: Amazon.com: Books
AMAZON Kindle: The Book of Story Rhymes – Kindle edition by Stewart, Dena. Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
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