The Calpocalypse: An Allegory in Verse

Maurice Gandy

Maurice Gandy creates a looping, feverish narrative in this collection of riveting rhyme about sun, sand, and the search for the perfect wave. The Calpocalypse describes the wanderings of a group of itinerant California surfers on the beaches of San Francisco and Mexico in the 1960s.Afar cry from Funicello and Avalon, characters like Macho Peaches, The Duke of Tan, and Coyote Conquistador introduce us to the real psycho-spiritual world of the surfers' esoteric lifestyle.

The action begins when a riot on the beach triggers an escape to the "Ultimate Toolies" in the mountains. An unfortunate encounter with a mountain cat causes another sudden flight, this time to Mexico where even the unwritten laws of the surfing gods don't apply. Things get wilder when a few of the surfers join the religious cult of the Reverend Cosmo Tease, while others are challenged to daring feats at the mysterious San Andreas Fault.In a climactic finale, we learn who defied the limits, who bailed, and who got axed.

Whatever happens to them, each one of Gandy's funny, engrossing characters is altered forever-as is the reader-by the experience of The Calpocalypse.

“Maurice Gandy takes readers along for the ride as characters set out on a journey to find their meaning in life during a free and expressive time in history. From comical and crude to mythical and mysterious, there is a character for everyone to fall in love with. I love that it is written in the form of poetry, although it is best when read as a story rather than getting lost in trying to follow a poetic rhythm. It is a great story of the trials, defeat, and success of self-discovery. It is perfect for anyone who wants to read about other people's struggle while trying to find their true place in life. Just as in real life, the characters in the story go through many adventures and many mishaps along the way. It was a wonderful book for me to read as I am trying to go to college and figure out what I want my life to turn out like. I had the privilege to attend a reading of The Calpocalypse, in which the author brings his characters to life. He uses audience participation to give his book a voice, and makes his readings a very enjoyable experience. I have read The Calpocalypse twice!” Five Star Reader Review

Maurice Gandy writes stories about interesting Mobile area people, events, and oral histories. Semi-retired college and university English instructor. Maurice is currently teaching Technical Writing and American Literature at the University of South Alabama; and English Composition courses at Bishop State Community College as an adjunct. "Roads Scholar" for the Alabama Humanities Foundation Speakers' Bureau (www.ahf.net). He travels the state making motivational presentations on oral history techniques and goals to private organizations, school clubs, and teachers' in-service workshops. The program is entitled "Famous Lost Words: Recording and Preserving Oral History."