Your participation is cherished! Please email your comments using the link below, and indicate the name you'd like them attributed to. Names can be "anonymous" or pseudonymous, and only the information you request will be listed--this may include an email address, your town, or anything else you'd like. If your message is personal, please use the link on the Inside Story page.
8/3/08
Dear Tom-- I read "The Beginning of the Calamities" in 2006 while I was traveling in Italy during Lent. I can't begin to tell you the different spin it put on Holy Week for me that year when I returned to my job in Campus Ministry in Lutheran parish (with R.C. tendencies). There were times when I'd wonder how Danny would react to what we were experiencing, or find my emotions paralleling things Danny expressed in your novel. I've been loaning out my copy ever since until I lost track of who had it. A few months ago I stumbled upon another copy and bought it so I could re-read it . We've just called a new pastor, who was raised R.C., and who also happens to be gay. I've promised him I'd loan him your book, I'm sure he'll enjoy it. Today's the first time I've checked out your website. I just read "Sister Rose" and thought it was great! Please tell me you have something in the works for publication. You're a terrific author and I'm anxious to read more of your work.
Peace and blessings, Fred Wolfe
6/7/08
Author Tom-- While in the midst of rehearsals and Danny's exploration into sexuality, I found myself compelled to send a short, appreciative 'Thank You' for this great read! Must run....want to continue my reading :)!
--Kathy Holland
5/10/07
Hey Tom-- I recently read one of your short stories in a book ... I just had to drop you a line and let you know I loved it! I hope to read more of your work.
--Allen
1/14/06
Hi Tom-- Just read "Sister Rose" and loved it. A good Jewish girl, I never went to parochial school and could vividly see what I missed. You did such a great job of portraying the kids, the sisters and most of all, of course, Alan. I loved, loved, loved his fantasy life. Looking forward to reading your other stories.
--Laura
12/6/05
Hi Tom-- Just wanted to let you know I read the first chapter of The Beginning of Calamities and completely enjoyed it. You opened up so many windows of my mind that have been protecting my memories of my earliest years in Catholic grammar school. I immediately was transported back to when I was in the first or second grade, and visited the older kids on the second and third floor of the school. The way you perfectly described the larger desks reminded me of a particular day I was sent upstairs to pass a message along to a fellow student. I couldn't remember the student's first name, only the last, and failed to say "master." I thought the nun was going to rip my ears off!
The expressions and inner thinkings of Danny's mother is so close to the fond memories of my growing up in a Catholic family. I'm headed to the library tomorrow so I can see how the story continues to unfold. Thanks again, and don't stop writing.
--A new friend, Marty
12/3/05
Tom-- You may remember me? Paul, that crazy divinity school student in Nashville ... I hope you are well! It has been a long time. Nevertheless, you have remained in my mind; your novel, as always, has remained in my heart. I wonder how you are doing? I wonder what if anything has changed? I wonder what you are working on? I wonder a lot. I completed, just moments ago, James Frey's novel A Million Little Pieces--extraordinary! And, despite the emotional pall that now consumes me, I remember feeling more tender and vulnerable and, somehow, more alive after completing Calamities. I wonder when you will be on Oprah?
--Paul J. Noreika
9/24/05
Hi Tom-- Thanks very much for writing this book which I loved. As the story of an outsider's childhood, and as a portrait of the people Danny has to deal with, it's remarkably successful. It's been about 8 months since I read it, something I'm about to do again.
--Lindsay Weekes Melbourne, Australia
1/13/05
Hey Tom-- Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed The Beginning of Calamities. Believe or not, we went to the same grammar school. I'm a couple of years older than you. Wish I could have gotten to know you back then because judging from your book we probably were going through some very similar issues.
Glad to read on your website that there may be some possibilty of a film. I kept thinking what a great play it would make.
Anyway I could gush away here, but I just wanted to let you know how touched I was by the character of Danny. He really struck a chord with my past and to have all the local references made it even more powerful. I look forward to reading more of your work.
--Congratulations...Mike
11/15/04
Tom-- I just finished reading The Beginning of Calamities. Having grown up at the time period, attending a Catholic school, and with an imagination as strong and real as Danny's (I was about as popular as he was), I really took the story to heart. I remember thinking that if I only said so many Hail Mary's, Our Father's, etc., that my prayers would be answered too. You truly captured my childhood, as embarrassing as that may be to admit. Each of the characters is so vividly portrayed. Juanita completely broke me up. I can't stop laughing at her performance on the stage. The book as a whole was wonderful. I hope you keep sharing your gift. Thank you.
--Chris Rosean Elmurst, IL
PS I had completely forgotten about chukka boots. Yes, I owned a pair.
8/5/04
When I read the review of your book in the East Hampton Star, it sounded overwrought and indulgent. Though I did make a note to read it, I did wait until I could get a paperback copy. So it was with surprise and more than a little chagrin (on my part and at the reviewer's), to find it a very tightly constructed, evenly balanced, well written and immensely affecting and funny novel. Admittedly, I am more than a bit prejudiced having endured a catholic school education myself. Although maybe because I entered puberty very late, I remember 5th and 6th grades to have been more peaceful and pleasant. Certainly, the iconography of the crucified Christ (and my favorite, Saint Sebastian) has played an important part in my development. Thank you for such a wonderful book. I will recommend it to all of my friends and my reading group.
--Dan Elliott New York City and Montauk
7/19/04
Dear Tom-- You captured and conveyed a very particular and personal experience and perspective in The Beginning of Calamities. I was taken with reading about Danny (and thank you for making him greater than the sum of his parts – he was conniving, insular and self-aggrandizing as well as bright and sensitive), Carol Burke, and Miss Kaigh. Carol’s admiration and exasperation with her son were so well-drawn as was Miss Kaigh’s sense that her world would be broader with an exposure to classical music. Juanita’s aplomb was just right. I could really just see her in action.
I was struck at the adroit way Danny’s spiritual identification and growing sexual awareness charged and reflected each other to finally merge. And I was further impressed by the skill you demonstrated in having Danny’s inept portrayal of Christ make him into a Christ figure. (Your use of childish insults by the “players” as they mock Christ reveals how timeless and relevant His story is.)
The novel’s concluding section (the entire day of the performance) was tense to the point of stomach churning. When I realized you chose to describe a “no holds barred” disaster, I felt this pull of needing to stop reading because what was occurring was so painful versus needing to keep reading to determine how the situation would conclude. I have a lot of experience with special events and must say the escalation of snags to the production was horrifyingly realistic.
Finishing the book, I thought, “Wow, where did that come from?” I then read that your personal experience formed the basis for this. Thank you for transforming such a painful experience into such a wonderful read. I am still thinking about your characters and how they registered the fall out from the situation.
I just wanted you to know I appreciate your exciting and unforgettable work.
--Joe Gaken East Boston, MA
7/16/04
Big kiss.
--Vincent Minuto
5/20/04
Paperback? Such provocative literature now proliferating in an even more easily accessible form?! Thank God! Calamities was so good in hardback that I might just have to read it again in PB. I'm thrilled, too, because this means I can buy lots of copies for my friends. (I think Mel G will just love it.) I loved Calamities the first time, and will love it the second time, I know. But I can only read one book over again so many times--so please, please, please put out another one soon! I hope you're working hard toward your next installment. Your blend of humor, insight, and poignancy (and courage) is rare, perhaps even unmatched in the lit world today. Thanks for that, Tom!
--BK Loren
5/20/04
Hi, Tom. Charles Panati. After reading Calamities--which I loved and have passed on to friends--I went back and read several of your stories and discovered that I love your style of writing and sense of story telling. Both are strong and distinctive. I hope you’re working on another novel, ‘cause I’m ready to read it. One day soon Stan and I will get to the Hamptons and get together with you to renew ‘old acquaintances’.
--Best of luck, Chas www.panatibooks.com
4/10/04
Well, Tom, I just finished reading your book last night. I can truthfully say that I was quite surprised by the ending! Now of course I don't know if my interpretation is right, but your story has to be one of the most unusual coming out novels ever. I am very pleased that God did not forsake him, that the Son of Man was right there beside him, and that although there are those who will cry, "Cover him! Cover that devil!" Danny persisted until, "Oh God, God ... It is finished." The ecstasy of entering Heaven.
--Good work, Steve Greif
3/1/04
Hey Tom! I just found out about your website and thought I would drop you a line. I don't know if your book ever made it into the window of BookHampton but the prediction came true. I still get 3 books before 2009. Best of luck!
--Kenn Buckley
10/17/03
Dear Mr. House-- I have just completed reading The Beginning of Calamities and I am trying to unpack the various and diverse emotions, thoughts, and memories swelling in my mind and heart . . . This novel is the juncture where Catholicism (as distinct from Christianity or religion in general), mystery, and sexuality intersect. While reading, I continually felt as if a mirror were being held to me, forcing me to relive the interior world of my youth. And in that reflection, I think, I have found some profound healing . . .
--Thank you, Paul J. Noreika Vanderbilt University
10/11/03
Tom-- Congratulations on the publication of The Beginning of Calamities. I don't know if you remember me, but I was a graduate student at Stony Brook in the late 1980's. I still remember visiting your class once when we were both teaching assistants. I admire how you kept writing all these years. Right now I'm teaching in the Program of Writing and Rhetoric, which you probably know has separated from English. Most of my reading is my students' texts, but I hope to read your novel before long. Best of luck, I was thrilled to hear about your new book,
--Kathleen Kern
10/9/03
Hey Tom-- Just the other day our Uncle Frank told me about your book and today I want to congratulate you on your success. From the entries in your guestbook I can see that you wrote a winner. I am very happy for you and wish you continued success, not only in writing but in life itself.
--Love, your Cousin Jim
9/28/03
Hi Tom-- My name is Cassie, and I just recently stumbled upon the article about your new novel in the New York Times and was utterly surprised that someone else had the same last name as I. Then, my dad, Daniel, informed me that you're his first cousin, therefore you're related to me. I am a senior in high school and I'm looking into studying writing and publishing in college. I am so very proud that someone from my family has such recognition and I just wanted to say "hi" and let you know someone you've never met (but, incidentally, from your blood), really admires you and your work.
--Sincerely, Cassandra House
8/27/03
Hey Tom-- I just finished The Beginning of Calamities and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it! You are a wonderful writer, with a great sense of detail and a memory that doesn't quit! I found the ending tremendously moving, and I found so much of the story hilarious! Generally stories centered around or based in religion don't interest me, but I was captivated all along. Keep me informed about your work. It's a true joy!
--Jon Fraser NY
7/17/03
Dear Tom House-- Congratulations on the publication of The Beginning of Calamities. (At first glance of the cover I thought I saw The Beginning of Catamites.) Quite a catchy title. I want to tell you what delight and pleasure it has given me and distress too as the book stirred memories of my unhappy childhood--for decades anesthetized by amnesia (I as a little boy used to go down to the furnace room, hug Skipper, the placid spaniel, and cry). I have never seen such a sympathetic, empathetic account of a gay 11 year old. Your marvelous wit makes it possible to endure the dark and desperate plight of Danny--a really marvelous achievement.
--Sincerely, Douglas Blair Turnbaugh New York City
7/13/03
Hey Tom! I just wanted to congratulate you on, well, just about everything! The site, the stories, the book . . . all fantastic! You did a wonderful job at the reading at BookHampton in East Hampton last week and I want to thank you again for letting me be part of the party afterwards. Good luck on everything you have in the works. You're an inspiration to all of the other up-and-coming authors who also suffered through the Long Island Catholic school system. ;o) Take care and I know I'll see you soon!
--Sincerely, Rob Tursi Southampton, NY
7/7/03
Hello, Tom. I remember your name and your work from several small press mags in the mid-90s. There, we often shared some of the same pages, and it's so good to see that you've grown as a writer (& not given up-- like many talented others) and now have your own book out there for the masses to enjoy. I look forward to reading it.
All the best and continued success to you, man. Stay on top of your own game & the rest will follow . . .
--Peace & Progress, L.M. Ross
Author, "The Long Blue Moan"
6/24/03
Tom, I'm really looking forward to meeting you on Thursday at your signing in Huntington. While exploring your website--in particular the East Hampton Star interview--I feel a sense of familiarity with you and your work. It's also nice to see the level of support you have from family and friends from this guestbook.
I'm struck by your determination to forge your own path in an economic culture that puts so many hurdles in front of us. Your story is an inspiration to others and I would be happy to share it with our readers.
Coincidentally, I see from the site that you are a William Faulkner fan. This past week I was in New Orleans and during a walking tour we stopped at the place on Pirate's Alley where Faulkner wrote his first book, Soldier's Pay. The house is now the site of a store named Faulkner House Books. I'm sure someday they'll want to rename it House/Faulkner Books!
--Regards, Tom Hroncich
Editor, Outlook-Long Island Bay Shore, NY
6/5/03
Hey Tom: Just finished the first chapter (and have ordered the book! ). Loved it--not to mention the teacher's name! What no debut in Boston? Congrats on the dream coming true.
--Best, Mags Southborough, MA
5/21/03
I had the pleasure of first meeting Tom over 5 years ago when I was a graduate student at Stony Brook and he was a bartender in the Hamptons. In addition to his boyish charm and gentleman qualities, it was always a pleasure speaking to him and he always provided a great distraction from my professors.
I had the great pleasure of seeing Tom again, five years later, but this time at his "first" book reading and signing in Orlando, Florida. What can I say - his boyish charm and gentlemen qualities are still perfectly intact and I can honestly admire an individual who is true to his craft and is doing what he loves.
I wish him the best of luck and have no doubt his perseverance will be the key to his success. If you have the chance to attend a book reading - do not miss it!!!!!
--Paul Crespo Miami, FL
5/17/03
We are so proud of you. Your web site is so like you. Perfect in every way. The easiest to read and the art work is better than most. Your book is great, wonderful, and then some. You have accomplished so much. Can't wait to attend your readings and signings. Once again WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU.
--LOVE, MOM & DAD
5/4/03
Tommy, I am so happy that everything is clicking and falling into place for you. The book is wonderful and you are getting the acclaim that you deserve. As I have always said I had faith in you and knew it would happen soon!! Your web page is great too!! All the best as always.
--Bruce Sloane
4/14/03
Love your stories! Your website is great! Your reach has exceeded your grasp! (from Robert Browning) and I am proud of you!
--Love, Nina
3/7/03
Your site is extremely well designed and user friendly. The Beginning of Calamities is a powerful and moving piece of literature, the timeless character, Danny Burke with all his paranoia, innocence, and hysterical quirks has found a place in my heart. You paint with words. Extremely proud of you and your writings.
--Love always, Vincent Southold, NY
3/3/03
Love your website. Adore your writing. Can't wait for your West Coast debut!
--Regina
2/21/03
Your website is thoughtful, attractive, easy to navigate and by and about someone I know, whose work I admire and who I count as a friend. Cheers.
--Cee Scott Brown
2/21/03
Tom, your webpage is very attractive and appealing, consistent with your writing, which draws the reader right in. Characters are memorable, like friends.
--Rob East Hampton, NY
2/16/03
Thoroughly enjoyed your website. I thought the first chapter of Calamities was wonderful and am eager to read the rest of it. The mother is a great character! Very human and funny.
--Jack Coconut Creek, FL
2/12/03
Outstanding !!!! I couldn't be more proud. You're off!!!!!!!!!!
--Love, Brother John