Welcome to RRBC’s
“ROCKIN’ 2020 AWAY” BLOG & BOOK TRAILER BLOCK PARTY! AT CHERRIESWRITER.COM
Here’s what I’m giving away today:
(4) $5.00 Amazon Gift Cards
This page is now dedicated to my author platform featuring my published books, book reviews, book trailers, ordering information, and some special surprises. Please feel free to peruse this page and its videos then leave a comment at the end. As an incentive, We will pick four lucky winners (from those who left comments FRIDAY ONLY 10/9) for a chance to win a $5.00 Amazon Gift Card.
**Additionally, the book club is awarding a $50 Amazon gift card as the Grand Prize to one lucky winner (pulled from the comments of all the participating blog sites). The blog tour is scheduled for 25 different stops during the month of October. Visit the club’s twitter page Rave Reviews Book Club daily during the month for the link to the next author blog stop.
Deleted: So let’s get this party started…
Welcome to my author’s page where you’ll find information about my published books, book trailers, sample chapters, personal videos and podcasts. Only my first two books are related to my personal experience during the Vietnam War. My two short stories describe real incidents of my life, but do not depict any experiences about the Vietnam War. If you’re an avid reader, you’ll enjoy this page and my website in general.
Here’s an intro to my website:
These are my books:
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Cherries: A Vietnam War Novel
In 1970, John Kowalski is one of many young, naive teenage soldiers sent to Vietnam to fight in an unpopular war. Dubbed “Cherries” by their more seasoned peers, these newbies suddenly found themselves thrust into the middle of a terrible nightmare. On-the-job-training is intense, however, most of these teenagers were hardly ready to absorb the harsh mental, emotional, and physical stress of war. When coming under enemy fire and witnessing death first-hand, a life-changing transition begins…one that can’t be reversed.
“Cherries” tells it like it is and when finished, readers will have a much better understanding of what these young men had to endure for an entire year. It’s a story that is hard to put down.
CHERRIES Book trailer:
Snippets of Cherries from my audiobook version – in concert with descriptive photos …
347 Book Reviews (4.5 of 5)
Cherries weds a matchless sense of dramatics with the ability to tell a marvelous story. You have staged excellent, realistic action with convincing effect. Cherries has a compelling magnetic quality.
–Manuscripts International, 1987
As an avid reader of many historical memoirs, both fiction and autobiographical, rarely have I found one as in-depth and revealing as Mr. Podlaski’s work…
–Bernie Weisz, Vietnam War Historian
One ‘read’ will not be enough. You will want to pass through the pages of “Cherries” more than once just to savor the up close and personal story again.
–Jerry Kunnath, author
Podcast: What was it like to hump the boonies in the Vietnam War?
Podcast part 2: Mother Nature and the Infantry Soldier
Did you know that you can read or listen to the first 6 chapters of Cherries: A Vietnam War Novel for free elsewhere on this website: Here’s the link:
https://cherrieswriter.com/the-first-six-chapters-of-cherries-both-written-and-audio/
Also available on Smashwords for all other e-book readers: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/13437
2. When Can I Stop Running? – A Vietnam War Story
The year is 1970, and the story follows the two soldiers – impressionable Detroit teenagers – during their long night in a Listening Post (‘LP’), some 200 meters beyond the bunker line of the new firebase. Their assignment as a “human early warning system”, is to listen for enemy activity and forewarn the base of any potential dangers. As they were new to the “Iron Triangle” and its reputation, little did they know that units before them lost dozens of soldiers in this nightly high-risk task and referred to those assigned as “bait for the enemy” and “sacrificial lambs”.
Sitting in the pitch black tropical jungle – with visibility at less than two feet – John’s imagination takes hold throughout the agonizing night, and at times, transports him back to some of his most vivid childhood memories – innocent, but equally terrifying at the time.
As kids, we instinctively run as fast as we can to escape imaginary or perceived danger, but as soldiers, men are trained to conquer their fears and develop the confidence to stand their ground and fight. Running is not an option.
WHEN CAN I STOP RUNNING? Book trailer:
Podcast: Author reading preface:
51 Book reviews (4.6 of 5):
“In a brilliant follow-up to his novel “Cherries,” John Podlaski weaves frightening events of his youth into a vivid depiction of a terrifying night as an infantryman on a Listening Post during the Vietnam War.”
– Joe Campolo, Jr., Author of “The Kansas NCO” and “Back To the World.“
“This tome draws the reader into the experiences that only combat personnel can usually hold witness to; broadening our understanding of the true sacrifices our military makes for us and our freedoms every day. ‘When Can I Stop Running’ should be on all of our ‘must-read’ lists.”
-Jerry Kunnath, Writer
“What makes When Can I Stop Running? a different read from ‘Cherries’ are the interludes where Polack, his memories brought to the surface as warily he watches for any movement near the LP, recalls his many adventures with school friends, some terrifying, some funny while growing up in Detroit during the1960’s. It is in these stories, so familiar to those of us of the Boomer generation, that the author treats us to some of his finest writing. His childhood comes to life in his rich, poetic descriptions. It is a lost world that haunts all of our generation’s memories, just as we are haunted by our memories of the central and defining event of our generation, the Vietnam War. Highly recommended!”
-Christopher Gaynor, author of “A Soldier Boy Hears the Distant Guns” and countless newspaper articles including a feature story and photos inTime Magazine
“John does a magical job in his second book of weaving the terrors of boyhood adventure with the terrors of war. His words had me laughing and crying while recalling and reliving some of my childhood adventures and the terror of pitch-black nights alone on the floor of jungles in Vietnam. Thank you, John, for another great adventure!”
–Stephen Perry, Author of “Bright Light: Untold Stories of the Top Secret War in Vietnam.”
Did you know that you can read the first 25% of When Can I Stop Running? for free elsewhere on this website: Here’s the link:
https://cherrieswriter.com/2016/08/02/when-can-i-stop-running-sample-chapters/
Also available on Smashwords for all other e-book readers: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/632451
Here is a video showcasing my personal photographs during the Vietnam War with background music of the times. Enjoy!
My next two books are short-stories about incidents that occurred back in the late sixties and early seventies. I was surprised by how many readers claimed to relate to each story. So far, both have received acclaimed reviews. Have a look below:
3. Unhinged
Two fourteen-year-old boys are offered a great first-time opportunity to watch a movie by themselves at a local drive-in theater. Little did they know that the movie would affect them in ways neither imagined nor will ever forget.
UNHINGED Book trailer:
12 Book Reviews (4.7 of 5):
“Author John Podlaski knows how to grab his readers! Horror movies always scare me, and this story of Nick and Jerry’s work adventure at a drive-in had my heart pumping. This story of two boys getting a full dose of fear with Night of the Living Dead in the dark, in the open is masterful storytelling.”
– Rox B., Author
“Quick (and very interesting) storyline … amaze-balls all the way! I felt like that 14-yr old kid running for his life!
– Nonnie Jules, Author & President of RRBC
“Mr. Podlaski’s brilliant writing style pens the main characters’ various emotions, especially their fear, with an animated, severe, and yet hilarious fashion.”
– Gabby, Author
Also available on Smashwords for all other e-book readers: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1025774
4. Unwelcomed
John Kowalski makes it home from the Vietnam War in one piece, and his battles are finally over. Or so he thought. Home for less than a week, John must defend his family from a pair of unwelcomed thugs hell-bent on revenge.
UNWELCOMED Book Trailer:
3 Book Reviews (5.0 of 5):
“The author gets inside the heads of the characters and brings them to life. If you like a thought-provoking, action-filled short story, you’ll enjoy this one! It is well-written.”
– Jan S., Author
“I have each one of John’s books and love them! This book pulled me in, captivated me. I wish it would have lasted several hours as I wasn’t ready to put it down.”
-Vickie
“Author John Podlaski is terrific as he sets up this story of middle-class Detroit in the Vietnam era. Young men off fighting a war, while their families continued a level of normalcy. When the solider receives a letter from his Sis, the events start to unfold. I really enjoyed all the visuals I gained from the words, yet the description of the Dad looking for a weapon struck me as nearly desperate, and I cheered his actions.
Mr. Podlaski draws readers into the meat of his stories immediately. I have enjoyed each book of John’s I have read. No words are wasted. There is enough detail to make his characters compelling and relatable. It’s a good read and easy read recommended for young adults and above. I think you will love the ending.”
-Rox B, Author
Also available on Smashwords for all other e-book readers: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1040426
I hope this book tour stop piqued your interest in one or all of my books. Thank you for any support you provide.
If you are an author or avid reader and would like additional information about joining the Rave Reviews Book Club, then please visit our website at this address: https://ravereviewsbookclub.wordpress.com/
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So, welcome to Cherrieswriter dot com. On this website, you’ll find most everything is Vietnam War-related – over 300+ personal narratives, photos, videos, movies, artwork, war book reviews, and favorite music of the time. Much of what is presented herein also impacts today’s soldiers, so here’s your opportunity to learn more about war and its warriors.
If you wish to peruse my website, then scroll to the top of the page and click on the “HOME” button for instructions on how to maneuver through the site.
Thank you once again for joining me on this blog tour. Don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance at winning prizes.
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Thank you for enlightening us civilians as to the horrors and deprivations you folks experienced!!!Thanx for your service!!!
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Thank you, John. Will do whatever is necessary to keep our legacy alive.
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John, You know I love the grunts, and you have served them well. Keep the Blog coming. 🚁🚁
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Richard, you do know that it goes both ways. Take care and be safe!
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John, we thank you for your service and for sharing your experience. That war was so unpredictable and divisive; and so its good to really be able to learn more about it. Congratulations on your achievements.
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Thanks for visiting, Shirley. The purpose of this website is to maintain the legacy of those who sacrificed and served in Vietnam. So in addition to being an author, I’m also transitioning to teaching.
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Very good!
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The Vietnam war slide show was outstanding. I wish it could be shared on facebook. People would have a much better idea of the horrors of war and what our fighting men went through.
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Thank you, Bob. The slide show is on YouTube and the link can be copied and shared. Click on the share button below the video and then copy the link and paste it on FB, Twitter, et al. Let me know if you’re having a problem.
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Hi John–I am anxious to read this book. I purchased it during the RRBC conference, and it’s next on my list. I am one of your contemporaries, age-wise, and am the spouse of a Vietnam veteran whose story is slightly different than yours. His draft number was 20. His wealthy parents encouraged him to join the National Guard and remain stateside, but he’s a devout Catholic and applied for CO status. He became a medic and served in Vietnam, late in the game (late 1970-71). Thanks for writing these stories, which must be told. I wish my husband would write a book as well.
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Hi Wanda. Thanks for visiting. Many VN Vets have commented both on my books and blog articles, thanking me for putting into words what they’ve been unable to tell. Some have suffered so much in the war that writing and reliving the experiences is too much of an emotional strain and prefer, instead, to keep up their invisible shield. However, some vets have also said that writing is therapeutic and has helped them. If your husband wants to write about one of his experiences then I’d be glad to publish his story as one of my weekly articles.
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Very informative post John. You’ve certainly been very busy writing and sharing your experiences. Looks like you are getting loads of feedback. Well done.
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Thanks for visiting, Robert. Yes, managing this website and posting on social media is taking a lot of my time. However, if it helps just one person to have a better understanding of what we went through during that time, then it’s well worth it.
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Your videos really showed us your story. I have your book on my TBR list and look forward to learning more about a time I grew up watching the images on TV. I throughly enjoyed Unhinged, and added Unwelcomed to my Kindle.
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Thank you for your support, Denise. The nice thing about the personal photo video is that you will have a more vivid picture when reading my book, CHERRIES. Many readers have learned more about the war and its warriors through the book and this website. Thank you again for visiting.
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Hi, John. What a beautiful, informative site you have! Thank you for your service, not only in Vietnam, but in your novels, your chronicles of the realities of that war. I grew up in that era as a military brat overseas, and many of the young men I went to high school with went to fight. Your slideshow and the accompanying music hit home. I’ll be reading your books.
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Thank you, Patty, for visiting my website. It took a lot of time to finalize these videos and I’m glad you enjoyed them. Thank you for your support. I look forward to your feedback after reading any of my books.
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You visit a very important, but daunting, part of our nation’s history. There’s so much to admire here: the number of books you’ve written, your awards, and sky high review ratings. I see you have exceeded the 50 Amazon review landmarks. Bravo!
Finally, thank you for your years of service. I know why brother-in-law who was deployed to Viet Nam would appreciate this book. And thanks for appearing on my blog “party” yesterday. All the best as you continue writing, marketing your wonderful books, John.
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Thank you for visiting, Marian. I do appreciate your sentiments and hope your BIL enjoys my book. As you know, marketing is much more difficult than writing. However, just like with #RRBC – a writer will reap only as much as he sows. Enjoy the rest of the tour.
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Many thanks to you for your military service during that difficult time, Vietnam– also my era. Your post today is outstanding with a powerful trailer and compelling audio, and I’m so impressed with your podcast skills. Cherries is on my TBR list. By all accounts it is an intense book and well worth reading so as not to forget any of the aspects of the war or the times. I look forward to it. Enjoy the Block Party, and best of luck with your books!
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Thank you for visiting my website, Flossie. I’m also grateful that you spent time with my videos and enjoyed them. I’m glad you chose to read CHERRIES. It is intense but readers attest to being right there with the characters and sharing in their fears and other emotions. I look forward to your feedback. Enjoy the rest of the tour.
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Wow! You have one awesome blog post. I love the trailers and podcasts, and of course, your books. I love following you on Twitter. I’m happy RRBC brought us together. I can’t count how many good friends I made through this book. Keep writing and tweeting!
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I made a typo. I meant to say, “I can’t count how many good friends I made through this group.” I can’t seem to write without typos.
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Susanne, not to worry. Nonnie will catch it and slap your palm with a wooden ruler a few times for hitting post before looking it over first. LOL 😉
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Thanks for visiting my website, Susanne, and for all the nice words you shared. As you know, maintaining a website takes a lot of work and I’ve seen that you are one of my biggest fans on Twitter. I’m looking forward to reading the final episode of your Dead series. Enjoy the rest of your tour!
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This is a great post, John! I read Unhinged and really enjoyed it. I have When Can I Stop Running? and Unwelcome: A Short Story on my kindle. I look forward to reading them. I hope people download your books today. 🙂
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Thanks for visiting, Yvette. I remember that you could relate to UNHINGED as you and your sister watched scary movies and had similar reactions. I’m confident that you’ll enjoy my other two books on your Kindle and look forward to your feedback. With school back in session, I hope you have time to continue your visits and enjoy the rest of the tour. We have some really good websites from our #RRBC authors.
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These visits are helping to pull me away from the stress of school. I’m enjoying every single stop. 🙂
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Hi, John, I thoroughly enjoyed this post and look forward to learning more about the Vietnam War!
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Thank you, John, for taking the time to visit my website during the tour. If you want to learn more about the war and its warriors, this is the place to be. Enjoy the rest of the tour!
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Blessings to you, not only for your service, but also for sharing the truth through your books. The legacy of the Vietnam Veterans must never be forgotten and what they endured should always be appreciated. Thank you for your service and your stories.
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Karen, thank you for stopping by to visit and for the blessings you bestow. You are correct about continuing the legacy – there’s not many of us left, but I promised myself to continue “teaching” as long as I can.
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John, Your posts are amazing. My friends were drafted and Dodge, Chevy, and Ford muscle cars were garaged waiting for their young owners to return. Many did return. Thank you for your service and thank you for sharing your memories of that time. You made me cry anew remembering the time and friends who could not return. You are appreciated.
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Rox, thank you for visiting my website during this tour, I’m glad you stopped by. I also enjoy your reading your reviews of my books on Amazon. I’m looking forward to getting into your Enigma books and enjoyed Out of Poland. Enjoy the rest of your tour.
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An amazing collection of work, John. The videos and blurbs drew me in to the untold stories to a place where many I know have experienced. Heading over to select one of your books!
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Thank you, Bette, for visiting my website during the tour. I also want to thank you for being my biggest advocate on Twitter, your tweets about me and my work are greatly appreciated. Looking forward to your feedback of any of my books. Enjoy the rest of your tour.
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My pleasure, John! 🙂 I’m looking forward to reading your book.
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I am a fan of your writing, John. Your stories are real and gripping. This is a great post showcasing your work. Thank you for sharing!
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Thanks for visiting, Jan, and for all your support since I joined RRBC. I’m grateful that you enjoyed my presentation and I look forward to learning more from you in the future. Enjoy the rest of your tour.
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Hi, John! What a nice profile of all your books! You already know that I am your newest super-fan! Way to go, RWISA Writer! Hope you’re enjoying your day!
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Thank you, Nonnie, for your kind words. As you know, putting a page like this together takes a ton of work and constant housekeeping to make it presentable. I’m glad you are a super-fan. I look forward to learning more from you and others on #RRBC and I look forward to a successful writing career. Enjoy the rest of the tour!
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Wow, John, I got lost in your videos – what a wealth of history you’ve captured here.
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Thank you, Wendy, for dropping in for a visit. I’m glad you enjoyed my videos. If you or others want to learn more about the VN war and its warriors, this is the place to be. In fact, I did meet soldiers from NZ and Australia when I was there…those blokes sure can drink! Enjoy the rest of your tour.
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A fantastic post, John. I watched your Cherries – A Vietnam War Story YouTube video and it sounds terrific. Sharing.
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Thank you, Robbie, for stopping in to my website for a visit. There are plenty of videos on this page and in my website library, enough to keep you busy for days. Pls stop back if you can. Enjoy the rest of your tour.
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Thank you, John. You have definitely stimulated my interest in the Vietnam war.
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Hi John,
I tried to get on your site yesterday but the link just wasn’t working for me. Anyway, I am here today. I like your trailer. It makes me feel sad because many boys left for Vietnam and had a great wake up when they got there. I had a very dear friend who went over. He didn’t want to go but he did. Within a week, he was dead. It was very hard for his mother and father. Especially his father, because that was his only son. His father never stopped mourning.
Thank you for the fact that you keep the memory of Vietnam alive. So many Americans have forgotten and so many of those veterans are still suffering.
I also looked at your website on Amazon and purchased your two short stories. I will let you know when I post a review on Amazon. Hopefully, I can do it by the end of this year. I have lots to read: 🙂
All the best.
Shalom aleichem
P.S. my like button doesn’t seem to be working. I have to find out why but I do like your site.
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Thank you, dear sister, for stopping by to visit my website. You are correct that many have forgotten about the Vietnam War, yet, there are more who don’t even know anything about it. My quest is to continue our legacy for as long as possible. The purpose of my website is for one to reminisce and relate, and the others to learn. Thank you for your support, Pat. I look forward to your feedback about my books.
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I am so sorry I missed this stop on the day you posted it, John. I’ve been out of town for a couple of days, so playing catch up. Thank you for using a quote from one of my reviews of your book! You are such a great storyteller. You make the reader really feel what’s going on in the story. Kudos to you. That is no easy task! It looks like you had a great response to this post!
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Thank you, Jan, for stopping by and having a peek. Congratulations are in order for two recent accomplishments of our club: your new VP title for RWISA and the naming of the 90-day short story contest after you. Kudos for all you do.
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I enjoyed “When Can I Stop Running,” John, and look forward to reading more of your books.
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Thank you for your support, Joy. I’m glad you enjoyed WHEN CAN I STOP RUNNING? looking forward to your review. Enjoy the rest of the tour.
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My review has already been posted, John.
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