Rollmops

Hoboken politician Johnny Kavanaugh has made a comfortable life for himself but must finally admit that he no longer recognizes the world around him. When he engages in uncharacteristic behavior-surrendering to the seductions of a gorgeous blonde constituent and opposing a major waterfront development-his fellow politicians predict his political demise, which hinges on an upcoming citywide referendum. These issues are further complicated when hazardous wastes are discovered at the site. As the campaign plays itself out, exhilarating success and embarrassing screw-up follow in rapid succession. The vote will force Johnny's life to take a radical turn. A father of four, James Dette lives in Weehawken, New Jersey, with his wife Evelyn. This novel was inspired by a challenge Russell Baker once made to his readers to "compose a list of ten well-known living people whose names would have caught Charles Dickens's eye." When he announced the winners, Mr. Dette was among the honorees. His travel articles, as well as light and serious op-ed commentaries, have appeared in such venues as The New York Times, Irish America, the Record, and Street News.