Nicky D. from L.I.C.: A Narrative Portrait of Nicholas Detommaso : Book Review

"Nicky D from L.I.C" by Warren Lehrer is a captivating and unique novel that takes readers on a journey into the life of Nicky Dempsey, a working-class Italian-American in Long Island City (L.I.C). Set in the 1960s-70s, this book tells Nicky's story through interconnected vignettes that offer an intimate glimpse into his experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

What sets this novel apart is Lehrer's vibrant and poetic writing style. He skillfully immerses readers into the colorful and gritty world of L.I.C through a combination of prose, poetry, and graphic design. The language is masterfully crafted, evoking a strong sense of time and place and infusing the story with humor, tenderness, and raw emotion.

Nicky's journey is at the heart of this book, as he struggles with themes of identity, love, and the search for meaning. Lehrer's portrayal of Nicky is multi-dimensional and nuanced, allowing readers to deeply connect with his growth and personal struggles. The exploration of family dynamics, friendship, sexuality, and societal expectations adds a relatable and universal aspect to the story.

One of the standout features of "Nicky D from L.I.C" is Lehrer's innovative use of typography and design elements. The inclusion of visual elements such as photographs, sketches, and typographic collage adds a unique layer of depth and richness to the narrative. This creates an immersive and visually stunning reading experience, where the book becomes more than just a story – it becomes a visual representation of Nicky's world and thoughts.

In conclusion, "Nicky D from L.I.C" is a beautifully written and visually captivating novel that captures the essence of a time and place, while also exploring timeless themes of identity and self-discovery. Lehrer's bold and innovative storytelling techniques make this book truly unforgettable. Readers will be deeply engrossed in Nicky's journey and will come away with a renewed appreciation for the power of words and design in storytelling.

What are readers saying?

Nicky D from L.I.C. by Warren Lehrer has garnered a range of reactions from readers. The novel follows the life of Nicky Dempsey, a young artist residing in Long Island City, whose world is turned upside down when he becomes immersed in a murder investigation.

The book has been praised by many reviewers for its innovative narrative style and creative use of mixed media. By incorporating illustrations, photographs, and different fonts, the story gains depth and visual appeal. Readers appreciate Lehrer's imaginative approach and his ability to create an immersive reading experience.

However, some readers found the visual elements overwhelming and distracting. They felt that the abundance of images and fonts took away from the storytelling, making it challenging to fully engage with the characters and plot. To these readers, the book felt more like an art piece than a cohesive novel.

Opinions on the plot were divided. Some readers found the murder mystery aspect captivating, relishing in the suspense and unexpected turns. They praised Lehrer's talent for keeping them guessing until the very end. On the other hand, some reviewers felt the plot was weak, overshadowed by the various artistic elements of the book.

Character development also received mixed reviews. Some readers found Nicky and the supporting cast engaging and well-rounded, establishing a connection with them and caring about their fates. However, other reviewers found the characters to be one-dimensional and lacking depth, hindering their ability to fully invest in their stories.

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