New Again

New Again by Don Tassone is a compelling collection of interconnected stories that explore themes of renewal, forgiveness, human connection, and purpose. The stories present an array of characters and settings, each exploring a unique human experience.   “New Eyes” is about Betsy Mitchell’s journey through her fears and mental health struggles to seeing life differently, thanks to her connection with family and conversations with her new Muslim neighbor, Shakila. Other stories present the lives of individuals facing loss, guilt, and redemption—such as Jesse Adler’s nostalgic longing to relive his childhood through a homemade grotto in “The Grotto” or Joe’s remorse over past sins that threaten his peace in “The Garden.” In “Trust,” Sarah grieves the loss of her husband. Can Daniel, a young man seeking purpose after a failed career, find his path in life? Each story offers a glimpse into the characters’ internal worlds, their struggles to reconcile with their pasts, and find meaning in the present.

Don Tassone is one of those authors with the unique gift for exploring human emotion and nature, capturing the experience of fear, pain, and hope in a relatable way. Each of his characters shares something with our humanity; each is deeply flawed, meticulously explored, and unforgettable. The themes of rebirth and second chances run through the stories in New Again. The language is lyrical, and I was fascinated by the author’s use of symbolism. For instance, Olivia is named after the olive tree, and the name symbolizes growth and strength. While you’ll enjoy the beauty of the prose and the drama created by the sparkling dialogues, you will also love the subtle humor and the realism infused into the writing. The stories in this book cleverly examine spiritual awakening, acceptance, and the power of forgiveness. Tassone sprinkles insightful thoughts into the book and wisdom that left me thinking about my own awakening. My favorite takeaway thought is from the last story, “Listen,” which reads: “It is said that God hears every leaf that falls in the forest. If that’s true, it must be because every leaf is dear to him and he listens with his heart.” This collection is a gift of faith and love, endearing, and hugely entertaining.