According to the popular song, "Every picture tells a story." In this case, both disciplines come from the same source the fertile imagination of John Nieman. The pictures are original paintings that frequently nod to pop culture. The short stories are loosely based upon the images, often in an ironic, twisted way. The combination of art and stories runs the gamut from humorous to heroic, sad to surprising, whimsical to wonderful.
If you can convince the world that butterflies can cry and space blobs can crave Jupiter candy bars, how much more difficult can it be to stage a multimillion kidnapping? That's the question advertising legend Marco Venesius asks himself after his client has been abducted and quickly rescued for six million dollars. The adman decides to one-up the event by creating his own kidnapping. It takes a savvy woman to suspect the ruse. However, by the time investigator Jeanne Berlin solves the puzzle, the handpicked captors have turned the tables and made this a legitimate abduction, with deadly consequences.
Ever look at a painting and fantasize about what kind of story it suggests? Ever wonder if the pictured people have a life outside the canvas? Ever imagine if an art image has some hidden story? John Nieman has answered those questions with this latest compilation of new paintings and new fiction. It contains scores of never-before-seen paintings, and all new short stories. If you like art and enjoy fiction, you will doubly pleased.
The narrative centers around a captivating news reporter and television anchor, whose magnetic personality draws readers into their world. The story explores the intricacies of their professional life, revealing the challenges and triumphs faced in the fast-paced media landscape. Through engaging storytelling, it highlights the impact of journalism on personal and public spheres, making for an absorbing read that delves into the complexities of fame and responsibility.
Driven by curiosity, Jackson Witt finds himself entangled in a murder investigation after witnessing the violent death of his mistress's husband, a controversial judge with hidden secrets. His past relationship with the wife and incriminating subway surveillance footage make him the prime suspect in a citywide manhunt. As he navigates the dangerous fallout, Jackson must uncover the truth to clear his name and escape the growing suspicion surrounding him.
The book features 26 uniquely named children, each representing a letter from A to Z. Each character embodies distinct strengths, dreams, fears, and insecurities, showcasing the diversity of childhood experiences. Despite their different backgrounds and challenges, they all provide a message of positivity and resilience, encouraging readers to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams.
Set against the backdrop of a burgeoning advertising agency, the story follows a team known for their outrageous and unconventional campaigns that blend sexiness with spontaneity. Their unexpected success earns them accolades, including the title of best small agency of the year, which in turn attracts more clients. However, this newfound fame also brings challenges, as key players face temptations from rival agencies eager to steal their creative magic. The narrative explores the dynamics of ambition, loyalty, and the high-stakes world of advertising.
Exploring themes of renewal and personal growth, the narrative follows Margot Roberts, a middle-aged widow seeking change from her monotonous banking career. With her daughter in London, she embraces her passion for gardening by purchasing a beloved greenhouse nursery. As she cultivates her new venture, Margot not only inspires fellow late-bloomers but also discovers newfound fame and romance, illustrating the transformative power of pursuing one's dreams and the beauty of second chances.
The narrative centers on an unexpected romance between Pat, a wealthy and intelligent young woman, and Marc, a middle-class boy passionate about magic. Their friendship begins in grade school and evolves over time, navigating various challenges. Ultimately, they discover the importance of having a supportive partner and true love, emphasizing the transformative power of their relationship.
The narrative explores a 30-year journey of a family living in a cherished home, filled with memories of raising five children and experiencing both triumphs and challenges. It reflects on the emotional significance of saying goodbye to a beloved space and embracing new beginnings. The story captures the essence of life's transitions and the bittersweet nature of moving forward, as encapsulated in a heartfelt message shared at a farewell gathering.