Synopses & Reviews
An absorbing epic view of daily life in the 1930s through the tragedy of 9/11tracing the valiant Schecter family's ongoing struggles. The story follows head of the family, Norman, fiercely battling for the creation of a teachers' union during the crucible of the Great Depression. His beloved wife, Marsa, strives to keep their family fed and clothed. Neatly woven throughout their lives is how their love for each other and their children is threatened yet keeps them together. Moving back and forth in time, we read the heart-felt stories of a wide group of fascinating people both in the United States and abroad. The book is a mirror of the present recession, the moral and economic dilemmas bombarding people today, and how through perseverance and hope we can overcome the worst of circumstances. A Penny for the Violin Man is both a panoramic view of tumultuous times and a fascinating journey.
About the Author
After serving in World War II, Eli Rill began his writing and acting career on both stage and screen. Eli adapted and directed Lee Strasbergs Actors Studio Production of Edna St. Vincent Millays Conversation at Midnight and James Baldwins Giovannis Room. He and Philip Yordan cowrote the screenplay for The Harder They Fall, Humphrey Bogarts last film. He also worked on the film as Bogarts acting coach. He cofounded with Elia Kazan and Arthur Penn, the Actors Studio Playwrights Unit in New York. In addition to Bogart, he has coached and directed Barbra Streisand, Paul Newman, Marilyn Monroe, Shelly Winters, John Candy, Rip Torn, and Kevin McCarthy. His acting credits include work with Peter OToole, Rod Steiger, Roddy McDowall, Barry Sullivan, and Patricia Neal, among other prominent actors. Eli Rill now writes novels in his studio in Canoga Park, California.