Compelling. That’s the word I’m looking for. This story is compelling. There isn’t a lot of action, no weird plots. It’s a story about a boy and the events that make him a man. A shy, somewhat pudgy young boy, Anthony discovers swimming and as his body matures, he grows into a strapping young man. During those years, he faces many adversities, suffers a tragic loss, and is involved in a taboo affair. The shadows of his past follow him as he goes off to college. There he makes friends, finds his path, and falls in love. But the past catches up to him. Now he could lose everything. Perhaps love can save him. This is another of those stories I call life fiction. From boy to man, you follow this character. Feel his insecurities and doubts. His sadness and pain. His hope .I mentioned compelling. I opened this book, started reading, and the writing compelled me to continue. I read a chapter, then another, and another. Soon, I reached the end. It read almost like a movie. Flashing from scene to scene through the years as Anthony grew up. A wonderful story.
Anthony Review by Crystal Random
This is a realistic tale of love, loss, and triumph. It’s riches to rags, then patching the rags to make riches again. The characters are powerful and endearing making this a moving and thoughtful book.
Anthony Review by Marilou George
The Author’s writing style is direct and filled with emotional drama which will keep you invested in the story. The characters are well defined and lend to the realistic feel of the story in a way that is relatable to the reader. Life is full of ups and downs, but it is the way we handle the difficult situations as well as the good ones that define us as people and build character.
I feel that the crucial message in this story is to persevere no matter what the obstacle, and to believe in yourself and your ability to confront the situation and bring about a positive conclusion. This is a very captivating story that will compel you to examine your own life and the decisions you have made, good or bad.
Anthony Review by J. Herrick, Amazon Reviewer
“The young boy, Anthony, captures your heart in the first few chapters, and you will want to continue with him through his happy, frightening, joyful, daunting journey toward manhood. A good read from start to finish.”
Anthony Review by Donna Connely, Amazon Reviewer
“Loved the story line, could not put it down. Although it is listed as a novel, it is sad to think this is reality for some kids.”
Anthony Review by Cassandra
The author makes a point of showing how a person can take whatever life throws their way and bounce back with flying colors. The characters are written perfect, for the imagination and the story was worth taking the time to read.
Taylor Review
Reviewed By Paula Tran for Readers’ Favorite
Taylor: The Journey Home by Harold J. Fischel describes a teenager and his transition into a young adult after a family financial crisis. Taylor, a junior in high school when the story first starts, lived a very extravagant lifestyle. He is the star of his school’s football team, as well as a popular bachelor. He loves playing around with girls, moving on from one to the next faster than the change of weather, to the point where his mother is frustrated. However, things changed when Taylor found out that his family’s business has crashed, and his world took a turn when his father committed suicide.
I think this novel is very well paced and extremely well written. The first few chapters were used to introduce us to Taylor, describing his playboy, care free attitude when it comes to anything. He is seen as reckless, making out with his girlfriend Phyllis, while knowing things can potentially get out of hand. However, I found it easy to relate to him, and I’m sure others will as well. Most people have experienced reckless teenage years and can relate to Taylor’s problems and thought processes. I think this way of introducing Taylor is a good thing, because we get to know the character a little better. The plot is also well developed, a mix of emotional and suspenseful elements. However, for a high school student, Taylor seems too perfect. Sure, he has had ups and downs during his life, but his achievements suggest that he can be a little of a Mary Sue.
Taylor Review By Arlene T, Waterloo
Hal I just finished Taylor a Journey Home. I really loved the book.I do not know where you come up with your stories. It is a love story but there are so many twists and turns I would never expect. I read the reviews of Anthony by the professionals at the end of Taylor and they say it much more eloquently than me but exactly my sentiments. You are so creative. Nice, easy, reading, but a deeper side too.Congratulations Hal.
Review by Arlene T, Waterloo
Taylor Review By Helena R, Chelsea
This is good! Your last book was good, but this one is better. Am not a literary expert, but know what I like to read. In this one it seems you are not in a rush, but are taking more time to describe everything and develop your characters – the feel is more relaxed. Also everything is more your own words, rather than some phrases typically used, which seemed to happen sometimes in your last book.
Review by Helena R, Chelsea
Review for Goggles by Rabia Tanveer
Fasten your seat belts because Goggles by Robert Fischel is flying you away on an electrifying adventure. Paul van Dycke is just 16 years old and he loves to fly. When he got his pilot’s license, he was given the nickname Goggles by the people who love him. Goggles is actually a pretty famous person, especially when he helped Police Chief Hank Miller capture Carl Petrovese and his thugs. That was the time when his life changed.
In that summer, he saves the life of his classmate Bobby. He is invited by Bobby, Johnny, Michael, and Herbert to accompany them on a fun filled adventure vacation in Mexico. They have everything they need: good food, great company and a beautiful place to spend a summer vacation. However, they land right in the middle of a drug cartel and they are threatened to sell drugs. When the boys reject the thugs, they kidnap Herbert. It is now up to Goggles and his terrific intelligence to save Herbert, stop the drug cartel, and bring his friends back home in one piece.
Robert Fischel has a very easy way of writing. You feel welcomed into the world of his fiction and it just gives you a warm, fuzzy feeling from the moment you pick up Goggles. His writing style is engaging and very invigorating. Plus, it is very refreshing to find a book where teenagers are sensible yet wild. You will not find these boys sneaking a beer or trying to get into girls’ pants. I really enjoyed this novel Five stars!