AuthorL John Zaiss
Publisher: Synergy Books
ISBN 0-9755922-3-8

The following review was contributed by: Mary Simmons 

Both teenagers and those who have survived their teen years will relate to
the coming-of-age story told by first-time novelist John Zaiss in his book,
'A Dedication.'

In a witty, cathartic tale, Zaiss introduces us to Quinnlan Marshall, a
17-year-old underachiever who matures and grows as a result of a friendship
with Joe Toscano, a 74-year-old Vietnam veteran.
Through the pages of this book, Quinn and Joe's relationship deepens and
both are changed by it for the better.

We are first introduced to Quinn as a cynical teenager who downplays his
intelligence and pretends he doesn't care what anyone else thinks about him.
As the novel progresses, we see Quinn transform from a resentful boy to a
caring man.
As Quinn learns about success and failure, life and death and the importance
of forgiveness, we also get a glimpse into the life of Joe, who is
struggling with the same issues and lends his experience to guide Quinn on
his journey through life.

Reminiscent of Mitch Albom's 'Tuesdays with Morrie,' Zaiss has created
memorable characters who reveal the power of friendship and how we can be
shaped by the influences of others.

In the writing of 'A Dedication,' Zaiss draws on his own relationship with
his father, who lost his battle with cancer shortly after Zaiss graduated
from college. The pangs of grief and loss echoed in the writing are
interwoven with laughter and redemption.

Told in the voice of Quinn, 'A Dedication' is an insightful glimpse into the
life of a teenaged boy. Using simple, clear language and flowing dialogue,
Zaiss weaves a tale which draws readers in and has them rooting for the
characters until the very last page.

When you sit down with this book, clear some time in your schedule, because
I predict you will want to keep reading until you reach the final page and
then will need time to reflect on your own life and the people who have
shaped it.

'A Dedication' reminds us of those people, be they friend, teacher, mentor
or parent, who have inspired us to do better.
It also serves as a reminder that it is never too late to forgive. Although
forgiveness may be important to the recipient, it is ultimately a test of
strength and courage and self-fulfillment. When you forgive the one who has
hurt you, you are also releasing yourself from the pain and allowing
yourself to live honestly and freely.
These are lessons we all need to learn.