New Short Story Collection Juxtaposes Institutional Oppression with Individual Transformation

April 24, 2012 - PRLog -- Campbell, CA April 24th, 2012—Derald Hamilton returns to characters from his novel “The Call” and introduces new characters in his recent collection of novellas and short stories. Humanity’s oppressive relationships within institutions and the epiphanies that lead to freedom and transformation are all explored in this new collection “Twice Upon a Prequel...and Three Shorts” (ISBN 9780984619214, D. Hamilton Books, 2012).

Elmo Piggins and Reginald Dexter served as foils to Ishmael O’Donnell, the main character in Derald Hamilton’s first novel, “The Call,” which told the unconventional tale of a group of seminarians. Now Elmo and Reginald return in two prequel novellas that shed additional light upon their backgrounds prior to their call to enter the seminary. Hamilton also includes three stories on similar themes about individual conflict with institutions and the transformations that may result.

“The Astonishing Elmo Piggins” introduces young Elmo as the prototypical Southern preacher’s kid. His older sister seems to eclipse him until she leaves home and he joins the Navy following high school graduation. While at sea, Elmo experiences a Road-to-Damascus transformation, turning his life and relationships upside down. “The Rebirth of Reginald Dexter” depicts a tenured psychology professor forced to retire at age sixty-five. This funny and inspirational story supports the life-affirming notion that it’s never too late for new beginnings. Both stories provide motivations for “the call” the characters receive to enter the seminary.

In three stand-alone stories, Hamilton continues his look at the social dynamics of people seeking to retain their individuality within the confines of institutions. “Taken Up Before The General” follows the misadventures of a hapless military brat who is pummeled into submission at every turn. This story provides a blistering portrait of a social order that grants no quarter to those who just don’t fit in anywhere. “The War Comes Home”—told from the viewpoint of a military wife trying to maintain peace and balance upon her husband’s return from war—explores self-sacrifice for the sake of conformity. Finally, “A Liter Bit Of Wisdom” is a dark comedy about the possible repercussions of action or inaction, and the potential role of fate despite whatever choices we make.

As with “The Call,” “Twice Upon a Prequel” is being praised for its character development and themes. The Pacific Book Review states that the book is “poignant and relevant” and “not a mindless read; be prepared to have to think about the concepts and relationships that are being presented.” Reader Views declares that Hamilton’s “characterizations are flawless” and that the book is “cutting-edge satire.” Finally, Rebecca’s Reads says of the book, “not what you would expect....Hamilton’s satirical nature and talent for surprising the reader shines through.”

About the Author
Derald Hamilton was born in Santa Cruz, California. His father was a career soldier, so being part of a military family, Derald moved around to numerous bases as a child. While in college, he received what he interpreted as a call to the ministry, which eventually led to his enrollment in Phillips Graduate Theological Seminary to pursue a Master’s of Divinity Degree. After he became disillusioned with church politics, he instead earned a Master’s Degree in Library Science and worked for the Santa Clara Valley Transit Authority. Always interested in writing, at age sixty-one, he brought his first novel into print.

“Twice Upon a Prequel...and Three Shorts” (ISBN 9780984619214, D. Hamilton Books, 2012) can be purchased through local and online bookstores. For more information, visit www.dhamiltonbooks.com. Publicity contact: www.ReaderViews.com. Review copies available upon request.