Book Description
‘Sapphires in the Rubble,’ the third of J.L. Caban’s works, is a tale with relevance to a young man who, in spite of his father’s explicit and unrelenting wishes, becomes a member of a Police Department located in New York. The reader will follow the protagonist, James Cardona, on his journey from a carefree young boy until his final days as a Police Officer, sharing with you his admiration, and detestation, for the organization that is tasked with providing its citizens with peace and harmony, notwithstanding the tumultuous relationship between themselves and the people in which they are sworn to serve. He learns, through his trials and tribulations throughout his tumultuous career, that the coveted Blue Fraternity is not quite what he suspected it would be, leading him down a winding path of uncertainty. In the midst of it all, he must deal with the incessant rebuking of his father who adamantly opposes his son’s joining with an establishment whose very existence is the bane of his own. How will James manage it all? Does he have what it takes to make it as an Officer in the big city? Or will the Big Apple, as well as his father’s despondency, ingurgitate him, leaving the young man no choice but to forsake his peregrination as an enforcer of the law?
Book Editorial Review
by Kate Benzin
5 Stars Review
Sapphires in the Rubble - A Collection of Vignettes by JL Caban is a compelling and poignant exploration of the life of James Cardona, spanning the time from his humble beginnings as a young boy to the final time of his career as a dedicated police officer. This collection of vignettes offers a deeply personal and introspective look into the joys, struggles, and triumphs of a man shaped by his experiences.
The author's writing style is richly descriptive, immersing readers in the vivid landscapes of James' life. Caban expertly weaves together the various stages of James' journey, creating a cohesive narrative that unfolds with depth and authenticity. Each vignette presents a different phase in James' life, providing a comprehensive understanding of his character and the circumstances that shaped him.
One of the book's notable strengths lies in its portrayal of James' development and growth. Caban artfully captures the essence of a young boy navigating the challenges of a disadvantaged background, showcasing his resilience and determination. As the story progresses, James' transformation into a police officer is depicted with great realism, revealing the sacrifices and emotional toll that come with the profession.
The supporting characters in the book are well crafted and add further depth to the narrative. From James' family and friends to his colleagues on the police force, each character contributes to his journey, offering both support and conflict. Caban explores the complex dynamics of these relationships, portraying the impact they have on James' personal and professional life.
Moreover, Sapphires in the Rubble delves into thought-provoking themes such as social inequality, justice, and the human capacity for resilience. Caban tackles these subjects with sensitivity, presenting readers with moral dilemmas and raising questions about the nature of society and individual responsibility.
The vignette format allows for an intimate exploration of James' life, giving a powerful impact to the book and showcasing the author's ability to capture profound moments and evoke genuine emotional responses.
In conclusion, Sapphires in the Rubble - A Collection of Vignettes is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book that delves into the life of the protagonist James Cardona. JL Caban's skillful storytelling and rich character development make for an engaging and emotionally resonant read. This collection of vignettes invites readers to reflect on the complexities of life, the enduring power of hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
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About JL Caban
JL Caban was born in the year of Elton John’s ‘Rocket Man’ (1972) to Joe and Lisa in a Mount Sinai hospital room in New York City and grew up in the boro of the Bronx. True to the iconic song, he has always found himself reaching for the stars. Having a keen interest in the literary arts, he found himself reading the works of classic novelists such as Hemingway, Wharton, Bronte and the like and dreamed of one day writing his own page turner. He attended Lehman College where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in English Literature, and a Master of Science in Education; in addition to becoming a Brother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. JL then went on to teach English to an inner city school in the Bronx before joining the New York City Police Department, where he has achieved the rank of Sergeant. Caban is married to his wife Cecilia and together they have a son, Julian Lincoln Caban.
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