Happenstance

by Lester Fisher

A bastard boomer negotiates the maze of postwar America. Wrenched from his working single mother, and brought to Camp Pondosa by his grandfather who was Woods Manager for McCloud Rv. Lumber Co. After his WAC mother became X-ray tech at the McCloud hospital, and acquired a husband, the new family moved to R. A. Long's "planned city" of Longview, Washington. A shocking change for a country-bumpkin kid. He attended Catholic School in this pretentious mill town with its socially stratified culture of mill workers, overlords and timber barons. Catholic indoctrination led to the Franciscan Seminary. He survived into his 6th year at the college of San Luis Rey, CA, when love won out. This young man left the pursuit of the priestly vocation to pursue the woman he had dated since his fifteenth year. First collegiate in his family, he and his girl entered the daunting halls of ivy at University of Washington. Engaged to his high school sweetheart, graduation approached in the turbulent years of 1969. A youth's options were few during the Vietnam War. Having taken his Naval Officer Candidate School exam, he also applied for Peace Corps. The NOCS did not reply, but the Peace Corps invited him to Kenya. Parting with his xenophobic fiancé, he served in the idyllic Hills of Taita where began a romantic involvement with a Taita woman ... and her 3 children. Their happy two years together ended when he was exiled from Taita by his military induction notice. By happenstance, Richard Nixon had changed the course of his life. One young man's account chronicles the most turbulent growth in United States history. These were expansions in technology, global influence, wealth, power, popular unrest, and human rights. These changed America from a isolationist, racist enclave, to the present confusing, liberating, imperialistic and ideologically-divided envy of the world.

684 pages, Hardcover

Published September 7, 2021

About the author

Biography: Born Lester Michael Fisher on Feb. 1 1947, he later took the surname of his step-father, James G. Klungness. His education, after Catholic school and seminary, included a Bachelors in Botany from the Univ. of Washington. After 2 years of Peace Corps as Youth Extension Officer in Taita, Kenya, he began a career with Weyerhaeuser Co., serving in the Wood Morphology and the Genetics Research Divisions. After 5 years, he returned to finish his Master’s degree in International Agricultural Development from Univ. of Cal. Davis. His thesis on honeybee digestion was published in three scientific papers. After 6 years of service in the Dept. of Pomology, he worked for the University of Hawaii for 10 yrs., performing research on fruit fly parasitoids. He then transferred to the US Dept. of Agriculture to pursue research on fruit fly suppression and management for 8 years. He retired back to the Univ. of Hawaii to assist on a program to protect the honey bee industry in Hawaii from invasive species such as the vorroa mite and small hive beetle. Health issues forced him into full retirement in 2010. He had authored or co-authored 21 peer-reviewed scientific papers, and many presentations to scientific and public meetings. He developed microscopic techniques, and invented the augmentorium for disposal of infested fruit and augmentation of parasitoids.
The author is married to his high school sweetheart and has a son and a daughter, a step-son, one grandchild, and two step-grandchildren. “I decided to write the book because I am amazed how many twists and turns my very ordinary life has taken during what must be considered an extraordinary period in human history. This was a life which profoundly impacted or begat the lives of three wives, six African children, an Afro-American son, and a Caucasian American daughter. I will always wonder what other impacts I had during a 40 year career in public service.”

Lester Michael Klungness pen name Lester Fisher.
PO Box 364
Mt. View HI 96771
Hm 808-968-6789
iPh 808-895-3075
web www.LesterFisher.com
email klungnesm001@hawaii.rr.com
Instagram @lestermfisher
Facebook Page Lester M Fisher

Reviews

[Rounak · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Happenstance" by Lester Fisher offers an intimate and insightful journey through the intricate tapestry of postwar America. The protagonist, a product of the baby boomer generation, grapples with the challenges of his time, shaping his identity against a backdrop of societal shifts.

The narrative delves into the protagonist's early life, marked by a wrenching separation from his single mother to live with his grandfather, a Woods Manager for McCloud Rv. Lumber Co. The story unfolds against the evolving landscape of the United States, transitioning from World War II to the complex era of technological advancements, civil rights movements, and shifting cultural norms.

The protagonist's journey takes him from a rural upbringing to the planned city of Longview, Washington, where he navigates the stratified culture of mill workers and timber magnates. His enrollment in Catholic School and subsequent venture into the Franciscan Seminary provide a window into his personal growth and the influence of religion on his choices.

The heart of the story lies in the protagonist's pursuit of education and love. As he enters the University of Washington during the tumultuous late 1960s, the Vietnam War looms large, presenting him with choices that define his path. Faced with the draft, he opts for the Peace Corps in Kenya, a decision that catalyzes a transformative phase of his life.

Fisher skillfully captures the protagonist's journey through Kenya, where he falls in love with a Taita woman and her children. Their bond encapsulates the power of human connection transcending borders and cultures. Yet, fate intervenes as a military induction notice disrupts this idyllic chapter, underscoring the arbitrary nature of individual destinies shaped by external forces.

The author masterfully weaves the protagonist's personal narrative with the larger historical context. "Happenstance" is a lens through which readers witness the dynamic evolution of the United States. From insularity to globalization, racism to liberation, and isolationism to imperial ambition, the book portrays a nation in flux.



Lastly, "Happenstance" emerges as a poignant portrayal of a single life intertwined with the sweeping currents of history. Fisher's narrative captures the essence of the protagonist's choices, desires, and challenges, offering a window into the universal human experience of navigating life's unexpected turns amidst the backdrop of a changing world.

[Sean Holder · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Happenstance" is a captivating and deeply personal memoir that offers readers a unique window into the tumultuous evolution of postwar America. Written with an engaging and introspective narrative, the book follows the life of a young man who navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing world. From his early years wrenched from a working-class family to his experiences at Camp Pondosa and the challenges of adapting to a new city, the protagonist's journey is both a reflection of individual growth and a poignant depiction of the broader shifts in society.

The book skillfully delves into the intricacies of the mill town culture, marked by social hierarchies and aspirations. One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the protagonist's spiritual journey. Starting from Catholic indoctrination to his time at the Franciscan Seminary, the internal conflicts and decisions that shape his path are portrayed with emotional depth and authenticity. The transition from the pursuit of priesthood to the pursuit of love serves as a central turning point that adds layers to the protagonist's character.

The narrative takes an unexpected and enriching turn as the protagonist enters the University of Washington during the transformative years of the late 1960s. The backdrop of the Vietnam War and the protagonist's involvement with the Peace Corps bring to light the profound impact of historical events on individual lives. The personal story weaves seamlessly with the broader canvas of social and political changes, offering readers a panoramic view of an era defined by conflicting ideologies and shifting perspectives.

The writing style is evocative and vivid, transporting readers to the different periods and places the protagonist traverses. The author's ability to blend personal anecdotes with historical insights creates a narrative that is both relatable and educational. "Happenstance" is a remarkable memoir that transcends individual experience to become a reflection of a nation's transformation. It is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of human connections that transcend borders and eras. This memoir will undoubtedly resonate with readers seeking a deeply personal yet historically enlightening perspective on the profound changes that have shaped modern America.

[Emmaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happenstance:
My rating:- 5/5 ⭐
By:- @lestermfisher
Experience the captivating journey of a "bastard boomer" as he navigates the maze of postwar America in "Happenstance" by Lester Fisher. From his tumultuous upbringing, wrenched from his single mother and brought to Camp Pondosa by his Woods Manager grandfather, to the shocking transition to Longview, Washington, this country-bumpkin kid finds himself immersed in a socially stratified mill town.Attending Catholic School, the protagonist's path takes an unexpected turn as he becomes entangled in the world of Catholic indoctrination and the Franciscan Seminary. However, love beckons, and he leaves behind the pursuit of a priestly vocation to be with the woman he has cherished since his fifteenth year.As the first collegiate in his family, the protagonist and his beloved venture into the daunting halls of the University of Washington. Graduation approaches against the backdrop of the turbulent 1969, where options for youth are scarce due to the Vietnam War. While pursuing opportunities with the Naval Officer Candidate School and the Peace Corps, a twist of fate leads him to Kenya, leaving behind his xenophobic fiancé.In the idyllic Hills of Taita, a new chapter unfolds as the protagonist becomes romantically involved with a Taita woman and her three children. However, their happiness is cut short when his military induction notice forces him to part ways with his newfound family. By happenstance, the course of his life is forever altered by the actions of Richard Nixon.Through the eyes of one young man, "Happenstance" chronicles the most transformative period in United States history, marked by advancements in technology, global influence, wealth, power, popular unrest, and human rights. Witness the evolution of America from an isolationist and racist enclave to its present state—an enigmatic blend of confusion, liberation, imperialism, and ideological division that captivates the world.Lester Fisher's powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions transport readers to a time of profound change and self-discovery. "Happenstance" is a thought-provoking tale that illuminates the intricacies of personal growth .

[Emma Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

📒 Happenstance
🖊 Lester Fisher

👉 Lester Fisher's Happenstance is a compelling memoir that explores the life of a young man navigating the intricacies of postwar America. Set against a backdrop of significant societal changes, the narrative follows the journey of a "bastard boomer" as he encounters transformative experiences that profoundly shape his identity.

👉 Beginning with his childhood, the protagonist's life takes a pivotal turn when he is taken from his single mother to live with his grandfather at Camp Pondosa. This shift marks the start of a series of unexpected challenges. As his mother becomes involved with the Women’s Army Corps and later works as an X-ray technician, the family dynamics evolve, leading them to Longview, Washington. This move underscores the contrasts between his previous life and the new world he must navigate.

👉 The memoir delves into his experiences at a Catholic school in a mill town, illuminating the social stratifications of the era. The narrative takes on greater urgency with the looming Vietnam War, presenting the protagonist with difficult choices. His applications to the Naval Officer Candidate School and the Peace Corps highlight his internal struggle during this crucial time. Ultimately, his decision to join the Peace Corps leads him to Kenya, where he embarks on a transformative two-year journey filled with cultural exchange and personal discovery.

👉 As the memoir unfolds, Fisher paints a vivid portrait of a young man's growth amid the larger transformations of American society—technological progress, social upheaval, and the fight for human rights.

👉 Happenstance stands out for its rich descriptions and engaging storytelling. Fisher's ability to weave personal anecdotes with historical context offers readers a unique perspective on a generation's experience. This memoir is an insightful exploration of identity and change, making it a recommended read for anyone interested in the profound shifts that have shaped contemporary America.

MUST READ 📚

[Books Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written by the esteemed author Lester Fisher, Happenstance is a thought-provoking literary work that leaves a lasting impact on its readers. Fisher, renowned for his extensive repertoire of both fiction and non-fiction, draws inspiration from his own life experiences and provides a unique perspective on American history. Under the pen name Mike Klungness, Fisher presents Happenstance as a memoir, blurring the boundaries between fact and fiction.

At the heart of this narrative lies the captivating journey of a self-proclaimed "bastard boomer," a protagonist who finds himself confronted with unforeseen and transformative shifts in his life. From his aspirations of becoming a priest, only to later abandon his devout path in Catholicism, to embarking on a lifelong journey of love since the tender age of fifteen, the resilient character of Mike emerges as a steadfast individual. As the first member of his family to pursue higher education, Mike's academic pursuits intertwine with his engagement to his high school sweetheart, introducing an undercurrent of challenges amidst their shared dreams. Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of 1969, Mike and his beloved find themselves stationed in Kenya as part of a peacekeeping mission, a sudden and drastic change that elicits profound reflections on life in a supposedly "developed" nation. The story takes an unexpected turn when Mike leaves behind his xenophobic wife, becoming entangled in a passionate affair with a Kenyan woman, leading to his subsequent deportation. It is within these happenstance encounters that the true essence of the story unfolds, epitomized by a life-altering event where Richard Nixon unexpectedly saves Mike's life.

While Happenstance delves deep into the personal memoirs of the author, it simultaneously serves as a window into the broader tapestry of American history, illustrating its profound impact on the global stage and its evolution as a modern nation.

[Books Reviewer! · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Happenstance," Lester Fisher delivers a captivating and deeply personal account of a young man's odyssey through the transformative era of post-World War II America. With a skillful blend of memoir and historical insight, this narrative offers readers a poignant glimpse into the life of a generation that witnessed and shaped the evolution of a nation.

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America, the book introduces us to a protagonist whose journey is both unique and emblematic of the experiences of countless individuals during the postwar period. Pulled from the embrace of his working-class single mother and brought to Camp Pondosa by his grandfather, the young man's life takes unexpected turns that resonate with the challenges and opportunities of the time.

Lester Fisher masterfully depicts the cultural shifts and societal changes that defined the era. From the transition to life in a "planned city" to the complex dynamics of Catholic education in a stratified mill town, the narrative immerses readers in a world marked by the clash of tradition and transformation. The protagonist's foray into the Franciscan Seminary adds depth to his character, illustrating the internal conflicts that mirrored the broader shifts in American society.

As the protagonist navigates the tumultuous 1960s, a period marked by the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and social upheaval, his personal choices intersect with the larger currents of history. The narrative's fluid progression takes readers through pivotal moments, including the protagonist's decision to shift from the pursuit of priesthood to embrace love and romantic involvement. This juncture of personal desire and historical context forms a compelling narrative arc that captures the essence of a generation in flux.

Lester Fisher skillfully balances intimate personal anecdotes with the broader sweep of historical events.

[Pablo · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I was a little late on the trend of reading this book, probably because I never really read what it was about or else I most likely would've been right there on the bandwagon reading another book that promised reality better than any fiction could provide. But I felt as though Fisher pushes it a little further, providing a dark glimpse not only into his life but also the effects it has on his mind. It is that kind of writing that makes this book 5 stars. The clarity and the courage also stand out, and in that way it is a throwback.

This book was just a crazy world that no one could really believe possible to live through and then be able to tell the story about it so wonderfully. There are parts in it that were hard to read but really showed the human side which is ultimately what makes this book so great. Lester Fisher writes his life in such a beautiful way that it makes you want to keep on reading.

With that being said, this book, in my opinion is a required reading. If you are a human being living in America, you must read this book. If you are an alien from another planet, reading this book is probably also required. Fisher is a great writer. I'd enjoy his writing if he wrote about other topics but this is especially timely and important. The writing could be too abstract for some but I found it poetic. Biggest qualm is that it's too long.

Read this book. Then read it again. Read it to memorization and then conjure up its lines as you pass through the streets of your city. Absolutely foundational reading, and unexpectedly gorgeous even when it wrestles with ugly things. Fisher is one of the finest writers working today. It is timely and personal and I found it illuminating. He revisits many of the experiences and themes of his life, but with added lyricism. I definitely learned a lot from reading this book. It's a book one should read once a year!

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happenstance

By

Lester Fisher.

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉"Happenstance" by Lester Fisher is an engrossing exploration of one young man's odyssey through the convoluted landscape of postwar America. This intricately woven tale unravels against the backdrop of a nation undergoing seismic shifts in various domains—technology, global influence, civil rights, and social dynamics. Fisher's narrative follows the life of the protagonist, a "bastard boomer," as he traverses a series of life-altering events and choices that mirror the broader metamorphosis of the United States.

👉Beginning with a wrenching separation from his single mother, the protagonist's trajectory is set in motion by his grandfather's intervention, leading him to Camp Pondosa and eventually the "planned city" of Longview, Washington. Fisher's meticulous attention to detail paints a vivid portrait of the protagonist's journey, from his working-class roots to his immersion in the stratified milieu of a mill town and its distinct social hierarchies.

👉The narrative further delves into the protagonist's stint at a Catholic school, which fosters a transformative journey toward a potential priestly vocation. However, love's allure proves stronger, propelling him into the arms of his high school sweetheart and onto the campus of the University of Washington. Here, the story encapsulates the tumultuous years of the late 1960s, marked by the Vietnam War and societal upheavals.

👉The protagonist's dual pursuit of a Naval Officer Candidate School (NOCS) position and a spot in the Peace Corps sets the stage for a pivotal turning point. Fisher adeptly captures the internal conflicts and external pressures faced by a young man navigating a world in flux. The narrative gains depth as the protagonist's path leads him to the hills of Taita, Kenya, where his involvement with a local woman and her children reveals the intersection of personal desires and societal obligations.

For book link:

https://www.amazon.com/Happenstance-L...

Wow what a book! I am in love with this book

👉I just loved reading the book ...

Happy reading

[M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Happenstance" is an interesting memoir. However, it is a bit long. Some of the details got somewhat tedious at times. But there were a lot of interesting historical facts. Many things that I did not know. As a devout Roman Catholic and former Franciscan Religious Sister, I enjoyed Lester's stories from his time in the Franciscan Seminary. I liked his usage of Sacred Scripture throughout the book as well as his use of poetry. Although, I am not a fan of poetry in general - I really like the poems shared in this book. "Happenstance" is very well written, and it flows very nicely. The only constructive criticism that I can share and my reason for giving it 4 stars and not 5 is that there was a lot of narration. A lot of "telling" and not enough "showing." In other words, there was very little dialogue between the "characters" in the book.

[Hans Meier · Rating 5 out of 5]

A look inside a friend

This book, one of three, and the longest, has given me insight into Lester. I now know more about him than before (and more than I wanted to in some cases, lol). Had he not written this, my relationship with him would be more towards the superficial. What I know now gives it more depth. You don’t have to be acquainted with Lester to find interesting things within these (electronic) pages. They give a look at a time past, and how those times impacted and influenced a “regular “ person. At least their perspective.

[Gretchen Klungness · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Happenstance” is a perfectly wonderful review of Mike’s life and mine, including many references from my mother’s journals and from Mike himself, through his letters to me over many years of correspondence. This memoir warms my heart and give an up close and personal review of the tumultuous years we grew up in. I highly recommend this book. (No prejudice here, of course, as his wife!)

[Lester Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a very honest and descriptive view of one young life in the 20th Century. A time of much change and uncertainty.