Synopsis
Against the backdrop of 1960s music and culture, comes a tale of memories and murder...and loyalty and love...and racism, revenge, and rock n' roll. A coming of age, a coming together, and a coming of tragedy. . .1990 - Key West, Florida - On a moonlit evening, the "Journal of Johnny Cipp" is discovered on a secluded beach. It has been more than twenty-three years since its author disappeared from his home 1500 miles away. His opening journal entry is cryptic in its message. "Unlike the lyrics to the classic rock song, 'The Summer of '69,' the Jimmy in my band didn't quit, and my Joey didn't get married. In my life, they died. In fact, except for me, they all died . . . and I have never before told our story.". . .1967 - Southeast Queens, New York is in turmoil. Amid the escalating chaos, five young men form a band in hopes of escaping the mounting violence, poverty, and drugs surrounding them. Johnny Cipp, the driving force behind the group, wants to lead them to fame and fortune. Instead, he takes them down a path where one misstep can result in destruction. It is said that if you remember the 1960's you were not really there. However, this was not a time of peace and love for everyone. In Johnny Cipp's neighborhood, it is a time of violent upheaval - and he remembers every moment of it. His journal weaves an intricate tale of five individuals who attempt to escape their chaotic situation with their only available weapons--their loyalty to each other . . . and their music. As the group bonds both musically and personally, each band member comes to realize that their music holds the promise of a brighter future. With each motivated to escape their present situation, they push toward establishing themselves as a professional band. In June of 1967, they got their big break, and it was the beginning of the end.
About the Author
Born and raised in Queens, NY, the author now splits his time between his home on Long Island and traveling the country in his Tiffin motorhome. When not writing, he is busy completing a bucket list of travel adventures. In the past 14 years, he and his wife Marilyn have traveled 115,000 miles. These travels have taken them to the 48 contiguous states, 133 national parks, all 30 major league baseball stadiums, 154 cities and towns, two Canadian provinces, and a variety of unusual experiences and locations. Many of these destinations color Band in the Wind, as well as its sequels, Sound of Redemption and Brotherhood of Forever. Two of his short works, "Pretty Flamingo" and "In the Garden of Eden," have been read and performed on stage in New York City. More information on his books, his blogs, or to view videos of performances can be found at the website: williamjohnrostron.com
In the past, he has published over two dozen non-fiction articles in newspapers and magazines. These writings included four full-page op-eds in New York Newsday. He was also presented an award by Nelson DeMille for his historical fiction short story, "The Last Artifact."
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