These Things Happen: A Novel

In the 1970s, Daniel Zimmer struggles to find safety and belonging in Brooklyn. He finds solace in punk and metal bands, but when faced with an unexpected family tragedy, he discovers the magical escape that alcohol can provide. He falls deeper into alcoholism, but when Max attempts suicide, he is forced to face his demons. This nostalgic ode to Brooklyn is an account of the ravages of generational abuse and the power of recognizing addiction and opening the door to redemption.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Girl Friday Productions

Growing up in 1970s Brooklyn, under the shadow of his tyrannical father and amidst the backdrop of the Son of Sam murders, the Karen Ann Quinlan tragedy, and the New York Yankees' back-to-back championship seasons, Daniel Zimmer struggled to find a sense of safety and belonging. In the rebellious rhythms of early punk and metal bands like the Ramones and Judas Priest, Daniel and his brother Max found moments of solace. However, when faced with an unexpected family tragedy, for which he felt responsible, Daniel discovered the magical escape that alcohol could provide, numbing his pain and guilt.

Carrying the trauma of his youth into adulthood, Daniel fell deeper into alcoholism as he fought to face life on his terms. Then, just as he finally began to embrace sobriety, Max attempted suicide, and Daniel's ex-fiancée made an unexpected reappearance. Forced to face his demons head-on, Daniel struggled to take things one day at a time.

Flashing through Daniel's life, past and present, this nostalgic ode to Brooklyn is an unflinching account of the inevitable ups and downs of recovery and coming of age. Ultimately, it is a story of the ravages of generational abuse and the power of recognizing addiction and opening the door to the possibilities of redemption.

Dimension: 215 x 139 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781959411161