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The Duke Don't Dance
"The Duke Don't Dance" captures the spirit of the "Silent Generation;" those born too late to share the triumphs of the Greatest Generation, too early to know only the privilege of the Baby Boom ascendancy and in too few numbers to assure a proper identity and enduring legacy. The novel is as accessible to Generations X and Y as the aging contemoraries of the fading eras that followed World War II, told from their perspectives in each passing decade, not their retrospective views as elders.
The novel is set in Washington, DC and a number of domestic and foreign locations: Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era, Africa during the struggles for independence, the Soviet Union and elsewhere. It follows the intermingled lives of several men and women of the Silent Generation. It is an irreverent journey through minefields of love, sex, race and social change that the protagonists first encounter as maturing adults in the post-World War II era, as their generation invents rock and roll, fills the streets in the struggle for racial equality, bleeds in the conflicts of the cold war and opens doors to the sexual revolution and feminist awakening.
The novel is set in Washington, DC and a number of domestic and foreign locations: Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era, Africa during the struggles for independence, the Soviet Union and elsewhere. It follows the intermingled lives of several men and women of the Silent Generation. It is an irreverent journey through minefields of love, sex, race and social change that the protagonists first encounter as maturing adults in the post-World War II era, as their generation invents rock and roll, fills the streets in the struggle for racial equality, bleeds in the conflicts of the cold war and opens doors to the sexual revolution and feminist awakening.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2012
7 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Richard G. Sharp
4 books35 followersRichard Sharp earned a BA from Harvard as well as a Masters Degree from Princeton, launching a career as an international development consultant before recently retiring.His vast experience across the United States and over four dozen countries provides settings for his historically authentic novel settings.
He is the author of "Crystal Ships" (2013) his sweeping epic of America's decades of discontent, the Sixties and Seventies; "The Duke Don’t Dance" (2012),a saga oh the "silent generation," and his 19th century historical novels "Jacob’s Cellar" and "Time is the Oven," tales of the domestic impact of the Civil War and its aftermath. His publications have garnered him multiple accolades, including a place on the Kirkus Best Self-Published Book list (2013), the Independent Publishers gold medal for Best Adult Fiction E-Book award (2013), and a finalist finish in the ForeWord Clarion Firsts (2012) and Reader’s Favorite (2012) categories.
Sharp is married with two adult children.
.
He is the author of "Crystal Ships" (2013) his sweeping epic of America's decades of discontent, the Sixties and Seventies; "The Duke Don’t Dance" (2012),a saga oh the "silent generation," and his 19th century historical novels "Jacob’s Cellar" and "Time is the Oven," tales of the domestic impact of the Civil War and its aftermath. His publications have garnered him multiple accolades, including a place on the Kirkus Best Self-Published Book list (2013), the Independent Publishers gold medal for Best Adult Fiction E-Book award (2013), and a finalist finish in the ForeWord Clarion Firsts (2012) and Reader’s Favorite (2012) categories.
Sharp is married with two adult children.
.
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January 26, 2016I was a little hesitant to take this novel on when I received the author’s query. I wouldn’t consider the time period it covers, 1960–2011, to be “history” . . . yet. But my reticence probably had more to do more with considering the 1980s (my high school years) as “historical.” (interpret: I’m getting old!)
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed The Duke Don’t Dance. This story of a generation illustrated through the lives of seven long-time acquaintances (along with other complex relationships) reminded me just a tad of the movie “The Big Chill.” (For those who have never seen this 1983 hit, the plot revolved around a group of seven former college friends who gather for a weekend reunion after one member’s funeral.) The Duke Don’t Dance begins in 2011 at a wake—“. . . more an alumni party with a corpse in attendance than a memorial service” (p. 5)—where the major characters reunite, and the plot then meanders backward in time, concluding at the same event. The thread connecting the protagonists is their tenure at “The Ward,” a Washington, DC lobbying firm, the dull and dead-end company they were all associated with in one form or another as a result of their various individual journeys.
The major characters epitomize the lives of the “Silent Generation”:
. . . Americans born between 1925–1942, who grew up as the suffocated children of war and depression. They came of age just too late to be war heroes and just too early to be youthful free spirits. Instead, this early-marrying Lonely Crowd became the risk-averse technicians and professionals—as well as the sensitive rock ‘n rollers and civil-rights advocates—of a post-crisis era in which conformity seemed to be a sure ticket to success.” (http://www.fourthturning.com/html/sil...)
The Duke Don’t Dance takes a satirical, yet nostalgic, look at what made this generation tick. Major political and social events are integrated into the characters’ lives seamlessly, sliding smoothly into place, and connecting today’s readers with those of the “Silent Generation.”
The tone of the storytelling oozes cynicism and sarcasm, and the narration is clever, witty, and sardonic, yet at the same time ruminative and introspective. Both the language and tone illustrate the attitude that consume and surround our protagonists, and the trite, complacent phrase “it is what it is,” with its slight grunt of despair covered over with resignation, came to mind as I read.
The Duke Don’t Dance is heavily character-based, and the author’s ability to “get into” the protagonists’ heads is quite perceptive and accurate. He manages not only to illustrate an understanding of the inner workings of both sexes, which is quite a talent in this reviewer’s eyes, but also to express these ideas in a respectful yet colorful and humorous manner. The book is written in the third person, which lends the narrative a sense of detachment, yet is at the same time engaging and forms vivid images in one’s head. If I bumped into one of these characters in the street, I would recognize him or her immediately.
I chuckled my way through this book; its irreverent social commentary about a multitude of topics is grist for the mind mill. A few outstanding examples are a commentary on friendship between men on page 103, on civic arrogance on page 99, on women’s role in society on page 44, and on corporate advertising’s penchant for manipulating consumers on pages 197–98. And then there’s a modern twist of Dickens’ famous line: “The turn of the century was not the best of times, it was not the worst of times; it, more or less, just sucked.” (p. 213)
I can’t resist quoting the commentary on religious hypocrisy:
“For Rachel, corruption came not from breaking the Kosher regulations of Halakhic law, but from the exposure of the transgression. Ben was old school; Rachael was Old Testament.” (p. 10)
I laughed for a long time after reading this, coming myself from a background of similar religious hypocrisy. Many readers will appreciate this, I believe.
From the punchy description on page 106, one can imagine this formidable woman blocking one’s path on the street:
“He found Beth impressive, albeit in less than a conventional fashion. Wearing unnaturally long fingernails extending a good two inches beyond her fingertips to signal that she didn’t type, her diminutive form draped in a flowing black robe, a headscarf in the red, gold, and green color of the Ethiopian imperial flag dominating her sepia complexion, always carrying a black ledger labeled with her title as the foundation’s chief financial officer, and bearing an intimidating HP-35 calculator keyed with the back end of a gold engraved Sheaffer Triumph Imperial mechanical pencil, she was, in want of a better word, scary.”
And a little philosophical lesson on page 142:
“’Remember that saying about how people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones?’ Ted said between bites to no one in particular, ‘Well, I remember the story about the African chief who bought a new throne for his grass hut, so he stowed the old one in his attic. It fell through and killed him. People who live in grass houses shouldn’t stow thrones.’”
These descriptions are typical of the prose in this novel: clever, sophisticated, peppered with cultural and generational references, exhibiting a slightly amused, cynical, and critical attitude. It is prose to be devoured slowly, chuckled over, and contemplated. If I could, I would quote from every page of the book.
Anyone who has lived in either the academically proud city of Boston or amidst the political corruption of Washington, DC, will appreciate the author’s portrayal of the social climates in these cities. Being a native of Boston myself, and now living in the DC area, to me, the author’s descriptions ring true, both of the past (that I knew) and of the present, especially the descriptions of Washington, DC’s social and political atmosphere. DC is where jobless vets come to hawk their useless military skills, and transplants from all over the world form the majority of residents. Retrenching of the beltway bandits (contractor firms who work with the government) is currently happening, in 2012, just as it did in 1973. Nothing changes in DC, over decades or centuries; the government engines continuously churn out the same endless cycle of “expand and retract,” and The Duke Don’t Dance portrays the sense of hopelessness and resignation that surrounds the nation’s capital.
A few aspects of the book gave me pause, but don’t let these stop you from diving in head first. One was the opening chapter. The reader is tossed into the world of private jokes and quibbles from decades-old relationships long before she or he knows anything about these people. The reader feels quite outside the action—as if observing a random group of friends wildly chattering over coffee from the opposite side of the room—since she or he has not had a chance to develop an understanding about or a stake in the lives of the characters at this point. It is a difficult beginning, except in retrospect. The second issue is the abundance of generational references; readers, depending on their ages, will understand some and not others, and this sheer amount of references could be a distraction to the story itself. Finally, at times, the protagonists’ job descriptions become a bit long-winded, and interest waned until certain short sections were over.
Regarding the cover and the title, to be very honest, my first impression was confusion (and unease with the incorrect verb in the title). The title made no sense to me, and the cover, even less. Halfway through the book, however, the meaning was revealed. Now that I understand, it does makes sense and I see why the author made the choices he did. However, neither the title nor the cover would likely entice a reader to pick the book off the shelf in the first place. There were very few typos, misspellings, missing words, etc.; the book is well presented and edited.
Combine a more generally appealing cover with the witty prose, alter the first chapter slightly to bring the reader closer to the protagonists, and we have another winner! I enjoyed this novel very much, found it clever and funny and appreciated the ride back in time on the backs of this unheard generation.
And I must wonder, after turning the last page, if this story is autobiographical or purely fictional; it is so poignant and real, especially the ending….
Review can be found on http://thequeensquillreview.com/
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed The Duke Don’t Dance. This story of a generation illustrated through the lives of seven long-time acquaintances (along with other complex relationships) reminded me just a tad of the movie “The Big Chill.” (For those who have never seen this 1983 hit, the plot revolved around a group of seven former college friends who gather for a weekend reunion after one member’s funeral.) The Duke Don’t Dance begins in 2011 at a wake—“. . . more an alumni party with a corpse in attendance than a memorial service” (p. 5)—where the major characters reunite, and the plot then meanders backward in time, concluding at the same event. The thread connecting the protagonists is their tenure at “The Ward,” a Washington, DC lobbying firm, the dull and dead-end company they were all associated with in one form or another as a result of their various individual journeys.
The major characters epitomize the lives of the “Silent Generation”:
. . . Americans born between 1925–1942, who grew up as the suffocated children of war and depression. They came of age just too late to be war heroes and just too early to be youthful free spirits. Instead, this early-marrying Lonely Crowd became the risk-averse technicians and professionals—as well as the sensitive rock ‘n rollers and civil-rights advocates—of a post-crisis era in which conformity seemed to be a sure ticket to success.” (http://www.fourthturning.com/html/sil...)
The Duke Don’t Dance takes a satirical, yet nostalgic, look at what made this generation tick. Major political and social events are integrated into the characters’ lives seamlessly, sliding smoothly into place, and connecting today’s readers with those of the “Silent Generation.”
The tone of the storytelling oozes cynicism and sarcasm, and the narration is clever, witty, and sardonic, yet at the same time ruminative and introspective. Both the language and tone illustrate the attitude that consume and surround our protagonists, and the trite, complacent phrase “it is what it is,” with its slight grunt of despair covered over with resignation, came to mind as I read.
The Duke Don’t Dance is heavily character-based, and the author’s ability to “get into” the protagonists’ heads is quite perceptive and accurate. He manages not only to illustrate an understanding of the inner workings of both sexes, which is quite a talent in this reviewer’s eyes, but also to express these ideas in a respectful yet colorful and humorous manner. The book is written in the third person, which lends the narrative a sense of detachment, yet is at the same time engaging and forms vivid images in one’s head. If I bumped into one of these characters in the street, I would recognize him or her immediately.
I chuckled my way through this book; its irreverent social commentary about a multitude of topics is grist for the mind mill. A few outstanding examples are a commentary on friendship between men on page 103, on civic arrogance on page 99, on women’s role in society on page 44, and on corporate advertising’s penchant for manipulating consumers on pages 197–98. And then there’s a modern twist of Dickens’ famous line: “The turn of the century was not the best of times, it was not the worst of times; it, more or less, just sucked.” (p. 213)
I can’t resist quoting the commentary on religious hypocrisy:
“For Rachel, corruption came not from breaking the Kosher regulations of Halakhic law, but from the exposure of the transgression. Ben was old school; Rachael was Old Testament.” (p. 10)
I laughed for a long time after reading this, coming myself from a background of similar religious hypocrisy. Many readers will appreciate this, I believe.
From the punchy description on page 106, one can imagine this formidable woman blocking one’s path on the street:
“He found Beth impressive, albeit in less than a conventional fashion. Wearing unnaturally long fingernails extending a good two inches beyond her fingertips to signal that she didn’t type, her diminutive form draped in a flowing black robe, a headscarf in the red, gold, and green color of the Ethiopian imperial flag dominating her sepia complexion, always carrying a black ledger labeled with her title as the foundation’s chief financial officer, and bearing an intimidating HP-35 calculator keyed with the back end of a gold engraved Sheaffer Triumph Imperial mechanical pencil, she was, in want of a better word, scary.”
And a little philosophical lesson on page 142:
“’Remember that saying about how people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones?’ Ted said between bites to no one in particular, ‘Well, I remember the story about the African chief who bought a new throne for his grass hut, so he stowed the old one in his attic. It fell through and killed him. People who live in grass houses shouldn’t stow thrones.’”
These descriptions are typical of the prose in this novel: clever, sophisticated, peppered with cultural and generational references, exhibiting a slightly amused, cynical, and critical attitude. It is prose to be devoured slowly, chuckled over, and contemplated. If I could, I would quote from every page of the book.
Anyone who has lived in either the academically proud city of Boston or amidst the political corruption of Washington, DC, will appreciate the author’s portrayal of the social climates in these cities. Being a native of Boston myself, and now living in the DC area, to me, the author’s descriptions ring true, both of the past (that I knew) and of the present, especially the descriptions of Washington, DC’s social and political atmosphere. DC is where jobless vets come to hawk their useless military skills, and transplants from all over the world form the majority of residents. Retrenching of the beltway bandits (contractor firms who work with the government) is currently happening, in 2012, just as it did in 1973. Nothing changes in DC, over decades or centuries; the government engines continuously churn out the same endless cycle of “expand and retract,” and The Duke Don’t Dance portrays the sense of hopelessness and resignation that surrounds the nation’s capital.
A few aspects of the book gave me pause, but don’t let these stop you from diving in head first. One was the opening chapter. The reader is tossed into the world of private jokes and quibbles from decades-old relationships long before she or he knows anything about these people. The reader feels quite outside the action—as if observing a random group of friends wildly chattering over coffee from the opposite side of the room—since she or he has not had a chance to develop an understanding about or a stake in the lives of the characters at this point. It is a difficult beginning, except in retrospect. The second issue is the abundance of generational references; readers, depending on their ages, will understand some and not others, and this sheer amount of references could be a distraction to the story itself. Finally, at times, the protagonists’ job descriptions become a bit long-winded, and interest waned until certain short sections were over.
Regarding the cover and the title, to be very honest, my first impression was confusion (and unease with the incorrect verb in the title). The title made no sense to me, and the cover, even less. Halfway through the book, however, the meaning was revealed. Now that I understand, it does makes sense and I see why the author made the choices he did. However, neither the title nor the cover would likely entice a reader to pick the book off the shelf in the first place. There were very few typos, misspellings, missing words, etc.; the book is well presented and edited.
Combine a more generally appealing cover with the witty prose, alter the first chapter slightly to bring the reader closer to the protagonists, and we have another winner! I enjoyed this novel very much, found it clever and funny and appreciated the ride back in time on the backs of this unheard generation.
And I must wonder, after turning the last page, if this story is autobiographical or purely fictional; it is so poignant and real, especially the ending….
Review can be found on http://thequeensquillreview.com/
July 7, 2012
This story starts out with a bunch of people attending a private gathering to pay their respects to Frank the day before his military funeral at Arlington. However it quickly becomes clear that this group of people have a tangled past of secrets and experiences, tensions rise resulting in Franks pants being pulled down on him whilst he lays in his coffin. From here the story jumps back into the past, arriving in 1960 and follows the story of several characters mentioned at the funeral, including Frank himself. As time moves on, their lives intertwine in a mix of events whilst historic world events occur around them such as Vietnam and the JFK assassination.
Richard Sharp has fantastically developed characters which evolve very realistically through their stages of life, from youth to middle age and parenthood to retirement. I found this interesting noting how some characters such as Lillian, the wife of Frank change at a constant pace, whilst others such as Ari stay the course and change very little of their personality and goals. I think this book is very honest to human life and the complexity of psychology and fate that falls upon us all. Everything is described perfectly, the progression through eras of time and the thought processes of all the individuals involved.
This was the first book I read that was written by Richard Sharp and I have to say that I truly enjoyed it, its got everything in it; wars, spies, love, lust, betrayal just to mention a few themes. I think my favourite character by far was Lillian, as she was a person lost in her actions driven by the ghosts of her past, yet she found a way to change, to move beyond it, and then to find Frank and be able to truly settle down possibly for the first time in her life. I would recommend this to those readers interested in the 60s 70s 80s and also to people who have an interest in psychology. It was a great read.
Richard Sharp has fantastically developed characters which evolve very realistically through their stages of life, from youth to middle age and parenthood to retirement. I found this interesting noting how some characters such as Lillian, the wife of Frank change at a constant pace, whilst others such as Ari stay the course and change very little of their personality and goals. I think this book is very honest to human life and the complexity of psychology and fate that falls upon us all. Everything is described perfectly, the progression through eras of time and the thought processes of all the individuals involved.
This was the first book I read that was written by Richard Sharp and I have to say that I truly enjoyed it, its got everything in it; wars, spies, love, lust, betrayal just to mention a few themes. I think my favourite character by far was Lillian, as she was a person lost in her actions driven by the ghosts of her past, yet she found a way to change, to move beyond it, and then to find Frank and be able to truly settle down possibly for the first time in her life. I would recommend this to those readers interested in the 60s 70s 80s and also to people who have an interest in psychology. It was a great read.
May 31, 2012
I was provided with a copy of this e-book by ReadersFavorites, to read and review. I am posting a review here on GoodReads, as well.
"The Duke Don't Dance" by Richard Sharp is Historical Fiction covering very recent history. He pens a very heart-felt presentation of "the silent generation", that group of citizens born too late for "the great generation" of WWII, but too early to be considered "boomers". In many ways, calling them "the silent generation" seems misleading, because this is the generation that marched in Selma, Alabama, during the civil rights movement of the mid-'60's, as well as the generation that fought the Viet-Nam war, populated the Haight-Asbury district of San Francisco, and made substantial social progress toward equal rights for women and minorities. In spite of that, as suggested in the book, they will likely be remembered more for what they didn't do, than for what they did do.
The story is a poignant portrait of life from the perspective of a handful of people whose lives overlapped, sometimes for the good, sometimes the not so good. It opens in Annapolis, 2011, where the main players are assembled at the wake for Frank, one of their own. Curious interplay between and among those present successfully whetted my appetite to continue reading, and I am glad I did... it is a very powerful book, much of which I could personally identify with.
After the initial bit in 2011, the story flashes back to 1960, when some of the players were in High School. They experience basically what everybody experiences in High School, to one degree or another. From there the book moves forward through the years, relating significant events which occurred in the lives of various ones, whether those events were significantly good, or significantly bad. The final chapter covers the burial, at Arlington, of Frank, the day after the wake.
Throughout this book the interplay is extraordinarily riveting, and at various times I alternately loved and hated each of the characters. They are portrayed as real people, living real lives, and it is natural to empathize with them as they experience circumstances we've all had to endure, or ones we've all gotten to treasure.
In his biographical blurb, the author indicates this is one of several novels he has written for his own pleasure, but the first he has had published. I urge you - whoever you are, whatever genre you normally read - to get a copy of "The Duke Don't Dance" and read it. I promise, it will be the most interesting History lesson you've ever had. If enough of us read this book, perhaps we can convince Mr. Sharp to publish some of his other work; I have no doubt it will be as well written and engrossing as "The Duke Don't Dance".
"The Duke Don't Dance" by Richard Sharp is Historical Fiction covering very recent history. He pens a very heart-felt presentation of "the silent generation", that group of citizens born too late for "the great generation" of WWII, but too early to be considered "boomers". In many ways, calling them "the silent generation" seems misleading, because this is the generation that marched in Selma, Alabama, during the civil rights movement of the mid-'60's, as well as the generation that fought the Viet-Nam war, populated the Haight-Asbury district of San Francisco, and made substantial social progress toward equal rights for women and minorities. In spite of that, as suggested in the book, they will likely be remembered more for what they didn't do, than for what they did do.
The story is a poignant portrait of life from the perspective of a handful of people whose lives overlapped, sometimes for the good, sometimes the not so good. It opens in Annapolis, 2011, where the main players are assembled at the wake for Frank, one of their own. Curious interplay between and among those present successfully whetted my appetite to continue reading, and I am glad I did... it is a very powerful book, much of which I could personally identify with.
After the initial bit in 2011, the story flashes back to 1960, when some of the players were in High School. They experience basically what everybody experiences in High School, to one degree or another. From there the book moves forward through the years, relating significant events which occurred in the lives of various ones, whether those events were significantly good, or significantly bad. The final chapter covers the burial, at Arlington, of Frank, the day after the wake.
Throughout this book the interplay is extraordinarily riveting, and at various times I alternately loved and hated each of the characters. They are portrayed as real people, living real lives, and it is natural to empathize with them as they experience circumstances we've all had to endure, or ones we've all gotten to treasure.
In his biographical blurb, the author indicates this is one of several novels he has written for his own pleasure, but the first he has had published. I urge you - whoever you are, whatever genre you normally read - to get a copy of "The Duke Don't Dance" and read it. I promise, it will be the most interesting History lesson you've ever had. If enough of us read this book, perhaps we can convince Mr. Sharp to publish some of his other work; I have no doubt it will be as well written and engrossing as "The Duke Don't Dance".
May 17, 2012
Sharp's novel, The Duke Don't Dance, pulled me into the story by page 2 and I immediately wanted to know more. As a daughter of parents from the "Silent Generation", I could relate to the book through their eyes and I recognized experiences similar to my parents. Sharp writes with direct honesty when painting the portrait of his characters. There is no attempt to romance the reader to want to like the characters. The characters simply are the way they are with flaws. Yet, I found myself deeply interested in them and growing to like them as I continued through the chapters.
Relationships are complex, imperfect, and uncomfortable. Conversations interweave the Vietnam War, "real music" (Elvis and Buddy Holly), and twitter seamlessly, yet demonstrating the vast experiences and contrasts for the Silent Generation. Chapters seem to ping pong between time periods, yet it somehow makes sense. I felt familiarity for the characters like I had met them from somewhere in my life. Then I experienced a jolting realization as moments in history were revealed against the backdrop of every day life. I felt like I gained understanding about how the average American really felt living the history of the past 70 years.
Sharp brilliantly contrasts characters from diverse educational backgrounds; different ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds; the military, unhappy homes; and liberal and conservative backgrounds. The novel is gritty and witty. As I read, I appreciated Sharp's descriptive style which transports you to the moment and each paragraph is packed with information and insights. This is very entertaining, enlightening, and a great read for people of any generation.
Relationships are complex, imperfect, and uncomfortable. Conversations interweave the Vietnam War, "real music" (Elvis and Buddy Holly), and twitter seamlessly, yet demonstrating the vast experiences and contrasts for the Silent Generation. Chapters seem to ping pong between time periods, yet it somehow makes sense. I felt familiarity for the characters like I had met them from somewhere in my life. Then I experienced a jolting realization as moments in history were revealed against the backdrop of every day life. I felt like I gained understanding about how the average American really felt living the history of the past 70 years.
Sharp brilliantly contrasts characters from diverse educational backgrounds; different ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds; the military, unhappy homes; and liberal and conservative backgrounds. The novel is gritty and witty. As I read, I appreciated Sharp's descriptive style which transports you to the moment and each paragraph is packed with information and insights. This is very entertaining, enlightening, and a great read for people of any generation.
September 25, 2012
For me, this book would really be much stronger if it had started differently. It begins with a funeral, which seems it would be a cool concept, but the author tries to introduce us to far too many characters in just a few pages- and all of them are equally important so there isn't much to cling to. I think it would have been a better strategy to begin with chapter two and get to know the characters one by one before beginning to see the intersections which were numerous and reminded me to some degree of a written "Love Actually". I came to greatly enjoy the ensemble cast as I got to know them more gradually, and I ultimately found each of the characters to all be well drawn and compelling, though some were far more likable to me than others (as, I suppose, is also the case in real life).
The author also focuses a lot on the 'silent generation'. While it's nice to get some perspective on that time, which IS underrepresented in literature, there is a reason it's underrepresented and that is that, at least to me and I think to many others, it isn't that interesting. The author didn't do much to change my mind on that point. Any interest I had in the book came through the characters and I sometimes felt a disservice was done to them by trying too hard to focus on this generational issue. In addition, the author's prose is sometimes a bit overly flowery for me, but that is a matter of personal taste. It was not outrageously so.
I received this book as part of Goodreads Firstreads program. I was not obligated to write a review.
The author also focuses a lot on the 'silent generation'. While it's nice to get some perspective on that time, which IS underrepresented in literature, there is a reason it's underrepresented and that is that, at least to me and I think to many others, it isn't that interesting. The author didn't do much to change my mind on that point. Any interest I had in the book came through the characters and I sometimes felt a disservice was done to them by trying too hard to focus on this generational issue. In addition, the author's prose is sometimes a bit overly flowery for me, but that is a matter of personal taste. It was not outrageously so.
I received this book as part of Goodreads Firstreads program. I was not obligated to write a review.
July 6, 2012
The Duke Don’t Dance
I thoroughly enjoyed The Duke Don’t Dance. There is a tremendous amount of thought, philosophy, and understanding of Silent Generation reflected in this extremely well written book. The book follows the lives of a group of friends from their young adulthood into their retirement years. The friends are from very different backgrounds and have very different political and social views, yet their friendships endure through the last part of the sixties and seventies, their myriad jobs, some that bring fortune, some that are based in illegal, immoral and profiteering businesses. The relationships that they share are complex, realistic, humorous and very real. The families and children that they build and destroy bring to light the disparate relationships that The Silent Generation had with their outspoken and idealistic offspring. I couldn’t help but compare this book with the movie The Big Chill, a particular favorite of mine, especially in the attitudes of the group toward sex, casual drug use, and music. As much as I loved the Big Chill, though, it did not have the depth and scope that The Duke Don’t Dance has. This generation is neither mine nor my parents, yet it is a generation that brought incredible change to American society and I absolutely enjoyed immersing myself in it.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Duke Don’t Dance. There is a tremendous amount of thought, philosophy, and understanding of Silent Generation reflected in this extremely well written book. The book follows the lives of a group of friends from their young adulthood into their retirement years. The friends are from very different backgrounds and have very different political and social views, yet their friendships endure through the last part of the sixties and seventies, their myriad jobs, some that bring fortune, some that are based in illegal, immoral and profiteering businesses. The relationships that they share are complex, realistic, humorous and very real. The families and children that they build and destroy bring to light the disparate relationships that The Silent Generation had with their outspoken and idealistic offspring. I couldn’t help but compare this book with the movie The Big Chill, a particular favorite of mine, especially in the attitudes of the group toward sex, casual drug use, and music. As much as I loved the Big Chill, though, it did not have the depth and scope that The Duke Don’t Dance has. This generation is neither mine nor my parents, yet it is a generation that brought incredible change to American society and I absolutely enjoyed immersing myself in it.
September 22, 2012
I was a Good reads first reads winner of The Duke Don't Dance. this book is about the friendships between the main characters, Frank, Ted, Ben,Sam, Beth,Rafi,fran,and Lillian. they are part of the Silent Generation. the characters are born between the late 1930s and early 1940s.The book starts at Franks funeral in 2011. then it takes us from 1960 to 2011. and ends after Frank's funeral.
this book reminds me of the movie The Big Chill. since it focuses on the men and women and how they intertwined in each others lives. we are taken through events that happened in our country, such as Vietnam vets, the reactions to 9-11. hurricane Katrina. there are marriages divorces kids, {some of them I had a hard time keeping track of}the sexual revolutions was in full swing them and they were part of it.
I found this to be a well written book by Richard Sharp. I got a good understanding of what this generation went through. the Quote "the Duke Don't Dance" was found on a bathroom wall in 1980. I think it is up to us to interpret what that quote meant or who it referred to. I enjoyed reading The Duke Don't Dance.
this book reminds me of the movie The Big Chill. since it focuses on the men and women and how they intertwined in each others lives. we are taken through events that happened in our country, such as Vietnam vets, the reactions to 9-11. hurricane Katrina. there are marriages divorces kids, {some of them I had a hard time keeping track of}the sexual revolutions was in full swing them and they were part of it.
I found this to be a well written book by Richard Sharp. I got a good understanding of what this generation went through. the Quote "the Duke Don't Dance" was found on a bathroom wall in 1980. I think it is up to us to interpret what that quote meant or who it referred to. I enjoyed reading The Duke Don't Dance.
July 15, 2012
What is the book about?
A group of friends reunite and rehash old memories. You'll be taken back through time to understand how these friends came to be the people they are today due to growing up just after the Great Depression and during the beginning of World War II which is known as the Silent Generation. The silent generation is responsible for the music you listen to, the equality in different races, and the beginning of the sexual revolution. These were brilliant times and this book shows the changes in society and in their personal friendship.
What did I think of the book?
I could really relate to this book with similar experiences that I have had with my own parents and grandparents. The characters were relatable as well as I know friends in my life with similar characteristics and personality. I would compare this book to one of my favorite movies "The Big Chill" where a group of old friends are brought together by a tragic accident. Even though their lives have all changed and they have grown up they are still great friends that work well together.
A group of friends reunite and rehash old memories. You'll be taken back through time to understand how these friends came to be the people they are today due to growing up just after the Great Depression and during the beginning of World War II which is known as the Silent Generation. The silent generation is responsible for the music you listen to, the equality in different races, and the beginning of the sexual revolution. These were brilliant times and this book shows the changes in society and in their personal friendship.
What did I think of the book?
I could really relate to this book with similar experiences that I have had with my own parents and grandparents. The characters were relatable as well as I know friends in my life with similar characteristics and personality. I would compare this book to one of my favorite movies "The Big Chill" where a group of old friends are brought together by a tragic accident. Even though their lives have all changed and they have grown up they are still great friends that work well together.
June 26, 2012
I received this book through a goodreads giveaway. The author also graciously offered the second edition of this book free of charge as well, and I will definitely be taking him up on that offer.
This was a wonderful book following the lives of seven men and women who were born in what was known as the silent generation. The story begins at the funeral of one of those seven, takes us back in time to when they all first met, and brings us back to where they are today.
I really enjoyed the stories of each of those seven, and I would love to hear more about each one. Maybe more books about each of the characters?
This book was a very easy read that keeps you engaged and is filled with interesting twists and turns. I look forward to reading more by this author.
This was a wonderful book following the lives of seven men and women who were born in what was known as the silent generation. The story begins at the funeral of one of those seven, takes us back in time to when they all first met, and brings us back to where they are today.
I really enjoyed the stories of each of those seven, and I would love to hear more about each one. Maybe more books about each of the characters?
This book was a very easy read that keeps you engaged and is filled with interesting twists and turns. I look forward to reading more by this author.
May 15, 2012
Article first published as Book Review: The Duke Don't Dance by Richard Sharp on Blogcritics.
Different generations of Americans each have their own individual era, a time when they were growing and events that colored their lives. These events help to create and define the individuals and their beliefs as they continue to age.
In The Duke Don’t Dance by Richard Sharp, we follow a group of friends and acquaintances that were born just after the shadow of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Known as the Silent Generation they came of age toward the end of the war. Baby Boomers as they are called are the children of the Greatest Generation as we know them, but also in some cases the children of the Silent Generation were also born at the end of that era. This Silent Generation are the ones who invented rock and roll, pushed forth the struggle for racial equality, and are at the bottom of the sexual revolution.
In this journal of growth we follow a group of seven friends as they embark on life’s little pleasures and the interconnections as they move throughout their time from young adults to adulthood. Often loving and other times hating, they are connected through each other and their pasts. Through the cold war and peace, and living though the drug culture, they are entertaining and irascible.
Richard Sharp has given us characters that are annoying, or fun, brave and talented, and just a bit out of their depth. You may recognize many of the characteristics in those you know, and understand the feeling of inadequacy they all seem to share. There are no sacred elephants with this group of survivors and there is no shortage of problems.
Throughout the story they continue to move on only to have to seek help from one or the other of this interesting cast. Even distance and time does not sever their ties, and even when they have wronged the other, after the initial shaft of betrayal, the characters move on only to understand how better to watch their backs.
Sharp takes you on a journey through the times and touches on history and events, all the while creating interesting scenarios to engage his characters, creating an understanding and believability to their actions.
If you enjoy historical facts and events, and the characterization of the different generations, you will find this a great novel. If you enjoy the interaction of characters that interconnect throughout their lifetimes, this is a marvelous find.
This would be a good story for a reading group, a great discussion piece and a place to ask questions. The events and history speak for themselves, and the characters help to clarify the times.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Different generations of Americans each have their own individual era, a time when they were growing and events that colored their lives. These events help to create and define the individuals and their beliefs as they continue to age.
In The Duke Don’t Dance by Richard Sharp, we follow a group of friends and acquaintances that were born just after the shadow of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Known as the Silent Generation they came of age toward the end of the war. Baby Boomers as they are called are the children of the Greatest Generation as we know them, but also in some cases the children of the Silent Generation were also born at the end of that era. This Silent Generation are the ones who invented rock and roll, pushed forth the struggle for racial equality, and are at the bottom of the sexual revolution.
In this journal of growth we follow a group of seven friends as they embark on life’s little pleasures and the interconnections as they move throughout their time from young adults to adulthood. Often loving and other times hating, they are connected through each other and their pasts. Through the cold war and peace, and living though the drug culture, they are entertaining and irascible.
Richard Sharp has given us characters that are annoying, or fun, brave and talented, and just a bit out of their depth. You may recognize many of the characteristics in those you know, and understand the feeling of inadequacy they all seem to share. There are no sacred elephants with this group of survivors and there is no shortage of problems.
Throughout the story they continue to move on only to have to seek help from one or the other of this interesting cast. Even distance and time does not sever their ties, and even when they have wronged the other, after the initial shaft of betrayal, the characters move on only to understand how better to watch their backs.
Sharp takes you on a journey through the times and touches on history and events, all the while creating interesting scenarios to engage his characters, creating an understanding and believability to their actions.
If you enjoy historical facts and events, and the characterization of the different generations, you will find this a great novel. If you enjoy the interaction of characters that interconnect throughout their lifetimes, this is a marvelous find.
This would be a good story for a reading group, a great discussion piece and a place to ask questions. The events and history speak for themselves, and the characters help to clarify the times.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
May 26, 2012
Disclaimer: I won this book from a contest on Goodreads First Reads, not required to write a review but they like it when you do. That being said...
The book I received was a first printing, and the author was kind enough to offer a second printing at no charge with corrections and reviews, and offered a personalization inside, which I thought was really nice, and will be taking him up on as soon as I finish this review.
The Duke Don't Dance is a story that takes place over a number of years, revolving around a number of people who meet each other through life, members of what is called "the Silent Generation," in between "The Greatest Generation" and the rest of us Generation X'ers, Y'ers, et al.
Without giving away anything significant of the plot, as I read the first few pages, I remember asking "Is there a point to this book?" But as the decades passed in the book, my investment in the characters grew as they progressed through their lives, to the point that the book was not put down until done, within the span of about 4 hours. The book goes into areas I was not expecting, from major world events, espionage, biological warfare, civil rights, and sex in unusual places, just to name a few of the things that kept me entertained.
I'm still not exactly sure where the title of the book fits into the story, though it is mentioned twice that I recall, and it's meaning at the end of the book was poignant enough that I will keep that in mind for the future. Maybe the irreverence of where it was first brought up is what infects the rest of the book and its characters, enough so that you want to keep finding out more and more about the principals in the story. My only spoiler (sorta) is I really didn't like Beth. The rest of the characters I can empathize with at least.
What I do know though, is I will be passing this book over to my sister's mother-in-law who I really think will appreciate the book, being a member of the "Silent Generation" The book also made me think about my own parents and their lives, how much about them I don't know about. For that alone, the book was a worthwhile read. I'd hope our generation is worthy enough for someone to write about someday, though I won't hold my breath.
The book I received was a first printing, and the author was kind enough to offer a second printing at no charge with corrections and reviews, and offered a personalization inside, which I thought was really nice, and will be taking him up on as soon as I finish this review.
The Duke Don't Dance is a story that takes place over a number of years, revolving around a number of people who meet each other through life, members of what is called "the Silent Generation," in between "The Greatest Generation" and the rest of us Generation X'ers, Y'ers, et al.
Without giving away anything significant of the plot, as I read the first few pages, I remember asking "Is there a point to this book?" But as the decades passed in the book, my investment in the characters grew as they progressed through their lives, to the point that the book was not put down until done, within the span of about 4 hours. The book goes into areas I was not expecting, from major world events, espionage, biological warfare, civil rights, and sex in unusual places, just to name a few of the things that kept me entertained.
I'm still not exactly sure where the title of the book fits into the story, though it is mentioned twice that I recall, and it's meaning at the end of the book was poignant enough that I will keep that in mind for the future. Maybe the irreverence of where it was first brought up is what infects the rest of the book and its characters, enough so that you want to keep finding out more and more about the principals in the story. My only spoiler (sorta) is I really didn't like Beth. The rest of the characters I can empathize with at least.
What I do know though, is I will be passing this book over to my sister's mother-in-law who I really think will appreciate the book, being a member of the "Silent Generation" The book also made me think about my own parents and their lives, how much about them I don't know about. For that alone, the book was a worthwhile read. I'd hope our generation is worthy enough for someone to write about someday, though I won't hold my breath.
March 11, 2013
Penned with the ink of truth and pain is the book "The Duke Don't Dance" by Richard Sharp. Highly Inspired from the works of great talents of our time, this book shows us the world of long lost souls of Silent Generation. This book falls into Historical fiction category and can be enjoyed by anyone who likes to learn more about lives and likes of our past & how we come to be.
Book follows seven friends and their life’s journey through the most socially reforming time period. Story offers insight into the complex plot line that evolves over number of years. Story unfolded to show characters grow in experience, relations and around major world events. Oh yeah, you heard me right... there are spies and threat of bio-war. People fighting for their civil rights... Society on the verge of sexual revolution... and beautiful characters all playing their imperfect role, all trying to do the right things. Survival.
Book did found a corner in my heart and I am glad that I read this story. With little over 250 pages it's a standard length novel still it manages to create its own world. I once read a YA sci-fi novel Time Riders, which was about time travel and major world events; but I dare say, Sharp's novel kept me hooked to the story without all the ado of sci-fi things.
The language used to portray characterization and events is easy read. But for me, story being true to itself is more relevant than it being blunt-out for readers liking... And that's exactly what sharp does with his writings. Here's Richards quote from one of his interviews, (In Author's words,) "To me, it is important that the protagonists not give a damn about what the reader thinks of them. The characters in a novel should never be pleading to the reader to love them or think they're cool. But my protagonists don't care and neither do I. In the end, I think that makes for a better story." and it sure did for 'The Duke Don't Dance'.
I am not sure how others will find this read as it shows dark corners of human nature at times but that's what makes it so real... I am rating it with 4 out of 5 stars. Thanks and enjoy.
Book follows seven friends and their life’s journey through the most socially reforming time period. Story offers insight into the complex plot line that evolves over number of years. Story unfolded to show characters grow in experience, relations and around major world events. Oh yeah, you heard me right... there are spies and threat of bio-war. People fighting for their civil rights... Society on the verge of sexual revolution... and beautiful characters all playing their imperfect role, all trying to do the right things. Survival.
Book did found a corner in my heart and I am glad that I read this story. With little over 250 pages it's a standard length novel still it manages to create its own world. I once read a YA sci-fi novel Time Riders, which was about time travel and major world events; but I dare say, Sharp's novel kept me hooked to the story without all the ado of sci-fi things.
The language used to portray characterization and events is easy read. But for me, story being true to itself is more relevant than it being blunt-out for readers liking... And that's exactly what sharp does with his writings. Here's Richards quote from one of his interviews, (In Author's words,) "To me, it is important that the protagonists not give a damn about what the reader thinks of them. The characters in a novel should never be pleading to the reader to love them or think they're cool. But my protagonists don't care and neither do I. In the end, I think that makes for a better story." and it sure did for 'The Duke Don't Dance'.
I am not sure how others will find this read as it shows dark corners of human nature at times but that's what makes it so real... I am rating it with 4 out of 5 stars. Thanks and enjoy.
September 11, 2014
I have to be honest and state that in reading “The Duke Don’t Dance” I didn’t really 'get' it at first. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that I was born quite a few decades after the 'Greatest Generation,' the 'Baby Boomers' and the 'Silent Generation;' therefore I'm unable to fully understand the angst that this last 'Silent Generation' endured. Who knew that the 'Greatest Generation' and the 'Baby Boomers' were the 'it' of eras to be born into? With that said, I’m guessing I should also feel cheated... I didn't grow up listening to dinner table conversations that revolved around the 'good ol’ days' of any of these apparently spectacular generations. Everything I know about them was discovered in books, pictures, movies, songs or museums.
So, armed with absolutely no point of reference I continued to slog my way through “The Duke Don’t Dance.” In all fairness, it was a really good read. Author Richard Sharp has a unique writing style that at first I didn't enjoy, but as I got farther along in the story the words seemed to flow better. Maybe as Sharp became more engrossed in the writing of “The Duke Don’t Dance” his words became less stilted and freer or ... maybe I was beginning to finally understand some aspect of each character’s life and why they did the crazy, outlandish things that they did. Whatever the reason, it allowed me to read and successfully enjoy the last two thirds of “The Duke Don’t Dance.” While I couldn't necessarily understand the thought processes behind some of their actions at least I was now able to empathize with each character to some extent.
In summary I would say that “The Duke Don’t Dance” is a solid book; a good read. There isn't a lot of 'fluff' within the story and for the most part Sharp transitions seamlessly through the various timelines. Add to that the fact that I was able to finish “The Duke Don’t Dance” with a smile on my face rather than a frown speaks volumes for Sharp’s writing ability. While I didn't connect with “The Duke Don’t Dance” as easily as I would have liked to, it was still a darn good read.
So, armed with absolutely no point of reference I continued to slog my way through “The Duke Don’t Dance.” In all fairness, it was a really good read. Author Richard Sharp has a unique writing style that at first I didn't enjoy, but as I got farther along in the story the words seemed to flow better. Maybe as Sharp became more engrossed in the writing of “The Duke Don’t Dance” his words became less stilted and freer or ... maybe I was beginning to finally understand some aspect of each character’s life and why they did the crazy, outlandish things that they did. Whatever the reason, it allowed me to read and successfully enjoy the last two thirds of “The Duke Don’t Dance.” While I couldn't necessarily understand the thought processes behind some of their actions at least I was now able to empathize with each character to some extent.
In summary I would say that “The Duke Don’t Dance” is a solid book; a good read. There isn't a lot of 'fluff' within the story and for the most part Sharp transitions seamlessly through the various timelines. Add to that the fact that I was able to finish “The Duke Don’t Dance” with a smile on my face rather than a frown speaks volumes for Sharp’s writing ability. While I didn't connect with “The Duke Don’t Dance” as easily as I would have liked to, it was still a darn good read.
August 28, 2013
This book did little to hold my attention. It was a rather intricate look at a group of people who popped up in each others lives throughout the years spanning 1960 - 2011. The way it starts (at a funeral) was a slap in the face just weeks after I'd lost my grandfather, so the book was put on hold for 6 additional months. That did little to warm me to the book. I think it's a poor choice to start a book like that and to introduce a lot of characters with little information to go on.
The following chapters led me to know the names, but not the characters and I had difficulty in working out if Ted was married to Lillian or Ari, if Triana was Franks kid or belonged to Sam...it was ultimately rather confusing with so many characters and children and constant criss-crossed lives.
I found that I would start a new chapter (usually a new year) and the general information about what was happening was interesting, some of it I remembered from school history or from news I'd seen in the later part of the book and others I didn't know much about at all. I would start out interested but when the personal parts of the characters started to infiltrate the story I started to switch off. The day to day activities of the characters was boring, unneeded information that bogged down the book.
If you want realistic characters, you may enjoy this book. The characters were flawed, angry for no reason, fought with friends and loved ones, cheated, lied and loved, but I didn't feel any sort of connection to them in the slightest.
My personal lack of interest in this book aside, if you want a book that covers the time (1960-2011) in fleeting detail then you might enjoy this. If you were born into 'the silent generation' you might be able to draw more comparisons to the characters, but I failed to.
**NOTE: I received an electronic copy of this book in return for an honest review**
The following chapters led me to know the names, but not the characters and I had difficulty in working out if Ted was married to Lillian or Ari, if Triana was Franks kid or belonged to Sam...it was ultimately rather confusing with so many characters and children and constant criss-crossed lives.
I found that I would start a new chapter (usually a new year) and the general information about what was happening was interesting, some of it I remembered from school history or from news I'd seen in the later part of the book and others I didn't know much about at all. I would start out interested but when the personal parts of the characters started to infiltrate the story I started to switch off. The day to day activities of the characters was boring, unneeded information that bogged down the book.
If you want realistic characters, you may enjoy this book. The characters were flawed, angry for no reason, fought with friends and loved ones, cheated, lied and loved, but I didn't feel any sort of connection to them in the slightest.
My personal lack of interest in this book aside, if you want a book that covers the time (1960-2011) in fleeting detail then you might enjoy this. If you were born into 'the silent generation' you might be able to draw more comparisons to the characters, but I failed to.
**NOTE: I received an electronic copy of this book in return for an honest review**
August 8, 2012
The Duke Don't Dance by Richard G Sharp is an exploration into a group of friends who come in and out of each others' lives throughout the turbulent mid-twentieth century. This particular group of friends sees themselves as part of the Silent Generation, not able to take credit for the victories in World War II, but too old to be a part of the ever-changing baby boomer generation.
Throughout the novel, not only are the relationships between this group of friends is explored, but it is also well anchored into the popular and political upheavals of the times. The group must deal with their feelings and attitudes toward political leaders, the changing business environment and the sexual revolution, making their lives, as well as the lives of their children, somewhat dysfunctional in trying to decide what's best for all of them.
This book was enjoyable to read because it covers a time period that's still not quite seen as old enough to be in the history books, but still compelling to read about. Sharp's writing style is unique and provides an honest look at the characters within the book. The only drawback to the book is that there are so many characters to keep track of, especially once the main group of friends starts adding spouses, lovers and children to the mix. If you pay attention to all the names, though, it's not an issue.
Overall, this is an excellent book for anyone who is interested in exploring real characters through the turbulence of a time not so long ago.
Throughout the novel, not only are the relationships between this group of friends is explored, but it is also well anchored into the popular and political upheavals of the times. The group must deal with their feelings and attitudes toward political leaders, the changing business environment and the sexual revolution, making their lives, as well as the lives of their children, somewhat dysfunctional in trying to decide what's best for all of them.
This book was enjoyable to read because it covers a time period that's still not quite seen as old enough to be in the history books, but still compelling to read about. Sharp's writing style is unique and provides an honest look at the characters within the book. The only drawback to the book is that there are so many characters to keep track of, especially once the main group of friends starts adding spouses, lovers and children to the mix. If you pay attention to all the names, though, it's not an issue.
Overall, this is an excellent book for anyone who is interested in exploring real characters through the turbulence of a time not so long ago.
September 4, 2012
The Silent Generation. These are the men and women between The Greatest Generation who won World War II and The Boomers who resulted when that generation came home and made families. The Silent Generation didn't have a war that everyone supported; they had Vietnam. They didn't have a President from their ranks. Instead the political crown skipped from men like Eisenhower and Nixon to John Kennedy.
But what did they have and what did they contribute? The start of the computer industry that changed the world. The rise of rock and roll; Janis and Jimi to Motown. Flower Power. The desegration acts that gave African Americans their dignity and rights. The rise of feminism and reliable birth control. The Cold War and the post-Bomb era. An era when going to college became imaginable instead of just reserved for the wealthy and powerful.
In The Duke Don't Dance, Richard Sharp tells the story of the Silent Generation. He follows a group of friends from 1960 to the present. The reader follows their lives and is privy to their loves, their politics, their work and careers. In doing so, the contributions and issues of this generation come alive.
Richard Sharp is a member of this generation. Born in 1941, he traveled with his career all over the world and currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.
But what did they have and what did they contribute? The start of the computer industry that changed the world. The rise of rock and roll; Janis and Jimi to Motown. Flower Power. The desegration acts that gave African Americans their dignity and rights. The rise of feminism and reliable birth control. The Cold War and the post-Bomb era. An era when going to college became imaginable instead of just reserved for the wealthy and powerful.
In The Duke Don't Dance, Richard Sharp tells the story of the Silent Generation. He follows a group of friends from 1960 to the present. The reader follows their lives and is privy to their loves, their politics, their work and careers. In doing so, the contributions and issues of this generation come alive.
Richard Sharp is a member of this generation. Born in 1941, he traveled with his career all over the world and currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.
August 25, 2012
There is much to commend the story author Richard Sharp presents in “The Duke Don’t Dance.” The writing is occasionally funny and irreverent, and for those of us who are new to the dance, plenty to learn about the lives of those who breached not just the 60’s but also Vietnam, Watergate, and the malaise of the ‘80’s. However, there is also a disquieting resentment, perhaps misread as smugness by some, of a generation that eventually asks itself, “Where did we go wrong?”
Author Sharp refuses to be silent, presenting a multi-protagonist story that mingles the culture, feel, and inertia of post W.W. II America through the 60’s and beyond. Characters are deep and satisfying with proven motivation that Sharp uses to set a leisurely pace, never hurrying at the expense of story.
Now, with the lug nuts on the wheels tightened by the Boomers it is obvious that no generation has all the answers. Maybe “Duke Don’t Dance,” but you’ll have to read the book to find the multi-layered reasons why.
Author Sharp refuses to be silent, presenting a multi-protagonist story that mingles the culture, feel, and inertia of post W.W. II America through the 60’s and beyond. Characters are deep and satisfying with proven motivation that Sharp uses to set a leisurely pace, never hurrying at the expense of story.
Now, with the lug nuts on the wheels tightened by the Boomers it is obvious that no generation has all the answers. Maybe “Duke Don’t Dance,” but you’ll have to read the book to find the multi-layered reasons why.
August 7, 2012
I won The Duke Don't Dance in a giveaway for free on Goodreads First/Reads- This book was a little hard for me to get into at first, but in the end The Duke Don't Dance turned out to be a great story. It is my understanding that Richard G Sharp was not intending on publishing this story for all to read** it was originally written for his own pleasure. (If I'm wrong please let me know- & I will remove that comment) anyway great story so glad to be a part of reading The Duke Don't Dance- one of my favorites~ Thanks!! Reesa***
September 23, 2012
I won a complimentary copy of this book from Goodreads First Reads.
This book really was a sad read for me. It reminded me of my heritage and all of my family members who are deceased. I had a very very large family and making the generational distinction by the author was very unique.
I am not a member of the Silent Generation, but, I do belong to a generation that will be leaving some kind of legacy.
I thought Sharp did a great job.
And thank you Richard Sharp for having this book printed in a larger font!
This book really was a sad read for me. It reminded me of my heritage and all of my family members who are deceased. I had a very very large family and making the generational distinction by the author was very unique.
I am not a member of the Silent Generation, but, I do belong to a generation that will be leaving some kind of legacy.
I thought Sharp did a great job.
And thank you Richard Sharp for having this book printed in a larger font!
October 14, 2012
The first chapter of this book is hard to read, but it gets much better. You meet a lot of people in only a few pages, and it's a bit hard to follow. After the second chapter the book gets much more enjoyable, as you watch the characters grow from young men and women on the cusp of adulthood, to the older adults you meet in the beginning. There are some slow parts throughout the book that go into specific political situations, I found myself skimming over them. Overall I would say the characters in this book are very enjoyable, but there are some pacing problems throughout the book.
April 23, 2012
The rating is a summary of reviews to date on amazon.com by ForeWord Clarion, Kirkus and customer reviewers. Described as "gritty and witty," "beautifully written" and compared to works of Henry James and Joseph Heller. The novel is a tale of the lives of seven protagonists of America's "silent generation" compressed between the Greatest Generation and Baby Boom and is described as "very entertaining, enlightening, and a great read for people of any generation."
October 14, 2012
The first couple of chapters are a bit slow, but once you get past that it is a story that draws you in. You hear the stories and voices of many developed and interesting characters. Likeable or not each character draws you into their story in some relatable way. Although I am not of that generation, I am sure that older adults would love this book.
June 12, 2012
What interest me on page two the story begin to pull me in wanting to know more... the experience seem similar to others in my life... I know weird... but true. Gosh! I finish the book but seem to want more, to know more, to have it continue, love this book indeed
July 27, 2012
I won this book from Goodreads first reads. This is not my style of book and didn't keep my interest. I would add to say that even if I don't like it, everyone is different and every reader has their own taste and might love the book, it just wasn't for me.
July 12, 2012
I loved this book.
As a member of the Silent Generation I felt as if I knew the characters in The Duke Don't Dance. The writer speaks with authority and the result is an intelligent, empathetic, and witty portrait of his characters and the events that shaped their lives.
As a member of the Silent Generation I felt as if I knew the characters in The Duke Don't Dance. The writer speaks with authority and the result is an intelligent, empathetic, and witty portrait of his characters and the events that shaped their lives.
July 9, 2012
This book is slow moving at first and the chapter do not seem to connect but everything comes together half way through.
November 25, 2016
I gave up on this book. I could not keep the characters straight and it just did not hold my interest. Sorry but cannot recommend it to any friends.
Want to read
August 29, 2012Won from Kirkus Reviews.
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