AuthorsDen: Reviews at a Glance

Recent Reviews for Everett Beal

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 11/8/2005 4:08:57 PM
Yes it has been a pleasure for me to offer this book to the public. It is available all over the world and when I place this one by Fatal Addiction on the table when I am having book signings, everyone wants to make a purchase of both books. When they see that I have written both. They love my style after a few pages and look forward to reading each.I speak from my heart as you can feel. Everett Beal Rph.

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 2/5/2003 5:45:08 AM
Thank you for "Southern Winds." The other side needs telling, not the "other" south, the "old" south, they are the ones who are left to pick up the pieces, both black and white, who must get beyond what has goine of and start dealing with the future.

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 12/16/2002 6:08:54 PM
The winds of social change blew through the American South at a time that to my generation seems like yesterday - but to U.S. children growing up now, it must surely seem as distant as the Civil War does to me. When those winds reached the community where he owned and ran an independent pharmacy, W. Everett Beal found himself forced to nap behind his counter each night with a loaded weapon at his side. That was the only way he could hope to protect his painfully built business from being firebombed or otherwise destroyed. As a lifelong resident of "the whitest state in the Union," whose contacts with members of other races have never been like those of native-born Southerners, I found this memoir a fascinating read. Ever since I've known people of color (which didn't happen until I was a young adult), I've interacted with them as equals. College classmates, colleagues at professional conventions, next door neighbors, fellow parishioners at my church. One of my own books lists my very black former pastor in its acknowledgements, for his kindness and helpfulness during more than one life crisis. So, while Mr. Beal's book is by no means entirely about race relations (past or present), his comments on that theme - the experience of being a Southern man during a turbulent and dangerous era - truly intrigued and enlightened me. However, that's only part of why I can recommend "Southern Winds" to my fellow readers who enjoy a well-written memoir. Mr. Beal's years as a columnist shine through his reminiscences of boyhood and young manhood. He knows how to tell a story, and he's included a very suitable mix of humorous, sad, and thought-provoking anecdotes in this, his first book. His stated goal is to share with his readers the culture that shaped him, and he has managed to do exactly that. This is a truly a book written from the heart, with touching honesty. Whether or not you agree with everything Mr. Beal has to say, you will be richer for reading his words and coming to know the characters who have peopled his life. I certainly am!

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 11/19/2002 6:10:11 PM
It reminds me, and African American, of the whites in my community who did not buy into the prejudices surrounding them. I did not live in the south, I lived in Pennsylvania, a place where some of my ancestors escaped to looking for freedom. As a child growing up in the 50's there adds in the papers stating no coloreds need apply, or whites only. There were many whites who moved to Pennsylvania to get away from segregation, and were embarassed that it existed in Pennsylvania. I have been blessed with friends who come in all colors of the rainbow, and know there is good, and bad in all groups. I believe forced segregation stunts the growth of everyone, especially if one group is give preferential treatement over another. That is why I agree with the premise of southern winds.

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 6/21/2002 6:30:22 AM
Very interesting and a setting I can identify with as Tennessean raised in a similar culture. Jim Crow and desegregation has a lot of similiarities. It is strange that equal education moved to integration when the issue was equal resources. I am drawing from post World War II experience through the mid 1960's and up to the present time.

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 10/25/2001 4:12:42 PM
Memoir Review Southern Winds by W. Everett Beal Writer's Showcase, 2000 ISBN: 0-595-10081-3 Everett Beal looks back at his family history and the events that shaped his life on the border of Florida and Georgia. And much like the train from which the book takes its title, Southern Winds is a journey of change in the South where sometimes the winds blow calm as a summer breeze and sometimes with the force of a hurricane. You could say that the character of a man is built over time by the heritage he possesses. In America, the Beals, the Bealls, and the Bells descended from a Scot named Ninean Beal who settled in Georgetown. He donated thirty of his thirty thousand acres to the creation of Washington, D.C. A direct descendent of Ninean Beal was the inventor of the telephone – Alexander Graham Bell. From this background as well as the lesson from his gentle parents, Everett Beal was taught to serve humanity and to treat others as you wish to be treated. Beal sets the tone of his memoir by capturing the daily life of Valdosta, Georgia in the first half of the 20th Century and how World War II was a turning point for this country and the South. People worked hard and followed their faith. The black and white communities had separate schools, churches and communities; but there was an easygoing respect and acceptance of those in each race that treated each other with common decency. As a boy, Beal appreciated the joy Black churches expressed during river baptisms. Often a Black man named James babysat him and his brother. The love between James and the boys was strong. It wasn’t uncommon for blacks who became close to a family to take on the names of uncle or aunt. The relationship was one of trust and kinship. True, in an era of Jim Crow, there were areas needing social change, but that change was coming at a gentle pace as most things move in the South. Beal became a pharmacist and opened his store in Griffin, Georgia. Drug abuse is not a modern problem, Beal tells anecdotes of how addicts would use uncontrolled substances to get their fix. He would cut off their supply from his store, only to know they would go elsewhere and would one day see their name in the obituary section. Pharmacists were often called “Doc” by the community and treated with respect. Also, the pharmacists felt a responsibility to their communities. Beal would often answer calls during the night to fill prescriptions. Once he saved a black man living across the street from his pharmacy, by breaking in and carrying him out of his burning house. He treated everyone with the same respect as they treated him. The winds across the South became more violent after World War II. Where there had been a peaceful co-existence between whites and blacks, a tide of unrest was mounting. The civil rights activists often took a violent twists burning down downtown stores. Relationships that were civil became testy. Beal found himself staying in his pharmacy armed overnight to protect it from burners and looters. This was distressing to his beliefs about humanity. Everett Beal relives the experience of many white southerners who appreciate the simple pleasures of a slower paced life and lived peacefully with their black neighbors. And how that existence became one of distrust during the period of unrest. Yet, Beal comes back to the lessons of his parents to put it all in perspective – we are all human beings. Joyce Dixon Southern Scribe Reviews © 2001 Southern Scribe, All Rights Reserved

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 10/23/2001 3:03:48 PM
Glenda Ivey, Author Jacksonville, FL "Southern Winds, the poignant literary debut of Everett Beal, is written with personal warmth and compassion, fairness and truth. This author's collection of memoirs takes a unique look at cultural changes that took place in the South during integration, along with establishing a strong sense of time and place. He not only takes you on a journey through those turbulent times, from a white man's point of view, he stresses the importance of love and understanding among all races. Southern Winds is a 'must read' for anyone who lived through those stressful times and especially for those who didn't."

Southern Winds, I lived and breathed every word of it. (Book) - 10/14/2001 5:48:31 PM
What a wonderful concept to put into words. Southern Winds crosses the invisible lines of prejudice on both sides and attempts to peacefully expose the just nature that white folk also had in a time of un-rest. Currently there is a reversal of discrimination amongst races and I often want to remind people myself that many white Americans sympathized with the plight of African Americans through out the century. But lost is the White mans role in the independence and freedoms of African Americans in today's society. I am glad that this fine author, Everrett Beale has the courage to bring this matter to light.

Oxycontin and Lortabs hook latest teenage patient at detox center. (Short Story) - 7/16/2008 9:16:00 PM
Horrible story, but it IS true. It happens in ANY TOWN, USA. And--not from the internet either. Doctors at most (not all) pain clinics are legalized drug dealers. Go for back pain and they prescribe meds for PAIN. I had a dear friend who is hooked on Loratabs and can get them easily from the pain clinic. At one time she was on Oxy!!!! She died of an overdose at 35, and I think the doctor should be held accountable for manslaughter! She was an addict who was in and out of rehabs and didn't NEED so much pain meds. He should have checked on this. But he just kept giving her pills. It's an epidemic in the USA. Everyone says that the addict has a CHOICE. WELL of course they do, but they are incapable of making the CORRECT choice~! They are addicts! Thanks for sharing.

Certificate of Cremation (Short Story) - 6/9/2008 5:00:40 PM
Dr. Beal has presented us with a sensitive narration. It is a story that touches every heart. It is also all too familiar to those of us who have had the honor to share an all too brief life of a pet dog. Thank you, Everett Beal for sharing your experience. Surly Bumpy Beal is proud of his master.

Advice is the Worst Vice (Short Story) - 1/24/2008 7:23:38 AM
Very, very interesting. Eileen

We All Make Mistakes But....Not With My Best Friend (Short Story) - 11/18/2006 6:03:44 PM
The first time Starter entered my office, hearing was a difficulty as Starter liked to make his presence known by barking quite loudly. He is one of the most outgoing dogs I have known in my 20 years as a veterinarian. Full of energy and enthusiasm for life (just as his owners), Starter is an example to us not to let the difficulties and trials of life take away from the day to day opportunities we have to enjoy the pleasures of living.

Oxycontin and Lortabs hook latest teenage patient at detox center. (Short Story) - 10/16/2006 4:42:46 PM
Where are the police and child protective services when this happens? I have been in severe pain for years, ( I have Lupus and DDS) and only after surgery was I taking Onycotin or Loratabs. Doctors just don't give them out for short term pain. How in the world could this teenager come up with a long term illness at the ripe old age of 17?? I believe there are some facts that the mother didn't tell you. Believe me, I am not naive and I have known about the internet drugstores for years. It is not as easy to obtain these opiates as she says. She could likely purchase Vicodin or Darvocet, but I find her story very unlikely. Even if she could sumit a legal perscription, the price would be outrageous. Just ask Rush Limbaugh.

I hate strange phone calls at night.I never know why they are calling since (Short Story) - 10/1/2006 4:06:22 PM
Nicely done. I applaud anyone who trys to help someone beat an addiction, drugs or not!

$500 bucks a day to support a cocaine habit and the drug pusher. (Short Story) - 7/25/2006 3:22:38 AM
Wow Everett, That's $3,650,000. I didn't think it was that much. Your story needs to be told and re-told. In W.C's time, it used to be 'That fatal glass of beer.' That did people in. But now...... And yes, I've heard stories of successful and rich business men losing all for drugs, drink, or gambling. I hear it over hear in Tokyo, too. A thought provoking concise article.....Paul

Authors can't wear their feelings on their elbows.. (Short Story) - 7/4/2006 2:00:01 PM
Hey Just Look At Your Live Stats --If I Had Depend On A D Tellen Me About My Books Or Selling -FORGET IT... TRASK

Authors can't wear their feelings on their elbows.. (Short Story) - 7/4/2006 9:11:47 AM
Feedback is always nice, no matter what work we do, but sometimes it just don't come easy. However, as long as we believe in our work, we keep on working! Keep going! B&R

I hate strange phone calls at night.I never know why they are calling since (Short Story) - 1/30/2006 8:39:33 AM
Well Done. I look forward to reading more of your work.

Sad Senior Citizen Story proves what I wrote in FATAL ADDICTION. (Short Story) - 12/22/2005 3:00:20 PM
something wrong in this country

Sad Senior Citizen Story proves what I wrote in FATAL ADDICTION. (Short Story) - 12/17/2005 11:02:39 AM
A very sad story, but very well written! Birgit and Roger

Sad Senior Citizen Story proves what I wrote in FATAL ADDICTION. (Short Story) - 12/17/2005 8:56:54 AM
Heartbreaking!

Letter from the Governor (Article) - 8/21/2007 2:23:10 PM

Appreciation for God's being the Captain of my ship. (Article) - 9/29/2006 2:17:08 PM
I worked for Time Warner once and my boss was a character, he was forever changing routines, office's, desks, you name he changed as did the company...we grew frustrated at him often, he made us hang a sign above our computers that simply stated..."CHANGE IS GOOD" I suppose he was right, if we don't move on and step outside the box, we may never know our true abilities. Good Luck with everything! Blessings, Joyce Bowling

Keep your fingers crossed. (Article) - 8/19/2006 4:08:46 PM
Everett, I will keep my fingers crossed for you and your family. I love North Georgia and we always wanted to move up there in retirement. Looks like that will not happen now. We are going up to Maggie Valley next week for three days. To bad Ghost Town is closed until next year. Anyway, I do hope it works out for you. It is so beautiful up there especially in the fall. And I am sure there is plenty of addiction up there as it is everywhere.

Writers write from across the Atlantic over the waves (Article) - 8/1/2006 2:15:44 AM
interesting read

Writers write from across the Atlantic over the waves (Article) - 7/30/2006 9:01:43 AM
Just like a message in a bottle I have no idea whether the writer for newspapers has received my article? Some times I pause to take the time to see the response from the editor of the paper and other times the writer lets me hear. No matter, someone did read it and hopefully they got my message. I feel I increase the odds that another person might think twice before they swallow a drug for hallucinations.

Another reviewer who wanted to share with my readers his feelings (Article) - 7/19/2006 7:16:54 AM
This review startled me as it really hit home.He hit the nail on the head when he stated," This is not the kind of thing you're going to read about in your morning paper, even though it happens in every community across the nation. Beal's work, unfortunately, will be one of those books that never gets the serious consideration and treatment it deserves. Why? Because he hits too close to home exposing a dark side of society we choose to ignore." Absolutely correct as my local newspaper has overlooked Fatal Addiction mny times since its arrival.I won 3rd.place in an International contest and first with my publisher for selling more books than any other author for my beginning months.This news went to the news about the awards I recieved. Twenty-five book signings, many around Griffin,GA.and only one interview which wss taken from front page color and replaced by a ferris wheel and a local fair.The interview lasted three hours and was cut down to about a fourth of the size. I want to offer many of the articles you see at my site to the paper but don't want to be turned down.Like the review above states,Fatal Addiction will never be a succes since it hits home and folks would rather leave their heads in the sand. Some day I hope they fool me and the writer waking up to see what really is happening in their town day and night for ADDICTION knows no classes nor boundaries. One day my publicist will locate a director or producer that just might get this book on a screen? Who Knows? Everett Beal Rph.

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 3/20/2006 3:27:36 PM
well said,

Ladies Only,You better watch out. I mean it. (Article) - 12/17/2005 10:59:47 AM
How right you are! This is a great article to share, who would think of things like these to happen close to Christmas, when our minds are filled with shopping lists! Birgit and Roger

Cherished Review from a future author (Article) - 12/17/2005 10:48:05 AM
This is indeed a great review! Thanks for sharing it, Birgit and Roger

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 6/23/2003 12:09:21 PM
everett, glad i came across this article. it is good to read something that makes so much sense. i agree 100 %. we are scottish/irish but wouldn't think of calling ourselves anything but americans. by the way, you have to be a good man from valdosta and griffin, georgias. i am from macon

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 5/13/2003 2:18:15 PM
Good Point, I am an Morguel American. I am mixed breed. I have English/Scots/Irish/French/NativeAmericanCherokee Blood in my lineage, but I am An American first.

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 11/18/2002 11:59:55 AM
great, danilo!

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 10/23/2001 4:03:49 PM
MG (Ret)Joseph W. Griffin Retired Major General Many thanks for the look-see at your book. It is good, and articulates many things that thousands, no millions of white folk feel. Best expression I have ever seen or heard. You have done something I've not read from any other fair-minded, non-bigoted southern white male. That is conveying and spelling out frustrations we feel and the current hate and hostility that is shown by so many of our black neighbors. It would be good for well-meaning folk of all ethnic groups to read the thoughts you convey in Southern Winds and consider them along with those who differ, as well as those who preach hatred."

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 10/22/2001 3:44:53 AM
His hair was white as snow. His hair was wooley, his feet was bronze as it was burnt. Revelation chapter4 . And who am I the decedents of Kings and Queens. The same blood that flows through his veins flow through mind. King Solomon. My skin was black and my family used me as a door mat because I was black. King Solomon. And Joseph as he as me. Belgium Africa as the ancestors blood of my blood. I am the decedents of kings and queens. Don't cry for me. My head is wooley as my king. There is a higher place above this earth. And your decedents is the legacy which you hold the key. One love, One God, One peace

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 10/14/2001 5:55:10 PM
I believe what the author was touching on was the final uniting of one country under God. Race or where one came from decades or centuries ago is not what this country is based upon. America is known as the melting pot where people from all over come to ONE nation and blend in together and unite as one people. If you were born here it doesn't matter where you came from, if you stand on this country's principles you are an American. You can respect your original heritage at home if you wish, but this recent tragedy has brought all citizen's of this country together as ONE people. This is a very positive article. For years this nation has sought to divide itself by race, this is not what America was suppose to be all about. Let's take Pride in being American is what this talented author has to say. I thank him for this positive observance.

I am an American, Are You? New Version (Article) - 9/24/2001 10:49:38 AM
"America" is a geographic location. "American" is one living there, at that location. But, what about a persons' birthright and heritage? A Jew is a Jew in any 'country' in the world. As is a Chinese a Chinese anywhere he lives or moves to in the world. They still retain their identity and heritage, birthright. Like so, a Japanese, Irishman, Italian, and as for me: I'm a Serb! I'm Serbian no matter where I live, and I've lived in more countries in the world that if I "adopted" the GEOGRAPHIC TITLE of those lands, my gosh! What would I end up being? A mongrel? No. No matter where I live or was born, I am a SERB [and proud of it]!! ...danilo...

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 11/30/2009 4:15:37 PM
For me there's only one race : the human race, though we wear different coloured clothing. Good write.

You Are Mine And Don't Forget It (Poetry) - 9/16/2009 7:41:51 AM
Wow! It's very difficult to understand the horrors of addiction unless you or someone you love has been there. My brother died at 38 years of age from a drug overdose, after a lifetime of addiction. Sometimes life is anything but beautiful! This is a great write. Anna

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 9/16/2009 7:39:25 AM
Amen indeed! We are all equal....This poem is very well crafted, deeply touching, and real. Anna

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 3/3/2009 8:06:02 AM
We have all paying the price for the terrible things that have been done, where it comes to race. Inextricable are the cruelty and injustice that the poor and other minorities have had to bear. I know what it was like to be poor. I never knew what it was like to be black or hispanic or of the 'wrong' ethnicity or nationality, or mentally retarded. . .the list is way too long to include here. No one likes to be the target of anger and resentment -- nor to most of us want to be feared -=, but personally, I can't begin to imagine what it would be like to have been vilified like African-Americans have. Far less, bought and sold, torn from one's family, raped, and murdered, and imprisoned though innocent. [Not implying that you're wrong; just that there is a great deal to forgive.] In addition, there are police who are still 'profiling,' and the percentage of African-Americans who are well-educated and have good jobs is still proportionately low. This is also true of women, e-t-c. I think that we Caucasians [who is "white??"] need to bend over backwards. I pray for the day when none of us needs to! Just wish I thought I would live to see it. T h a n k .y o u for helping move the dialog along! Only by being open and honest and thinking things through as far as we can, do we have a hope of creating a better, more peaceful and equitable society. All the best, always, Phyllis

You Are Mine And Don't Forget It (Poetry) - 11/15/2006 7:10:01 AM
True something we all know but do it anyway crazy and real excellent work

You Are Mine And Don't Forget It (Poetry) - 11/12/2006 7:00:23 AM
An outstanding piece Everett Well penned peace be with you William

You Are Mine And Don't Forget It (Poetry) - 11/12/2006 6:28:11 AM
Too many end up that way and have bruises to prove it.

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 7/2/2006 3:04:26 PM
For the past hour I have enjoyed sitting back and reading all the wonderful reviews my readers have shared when they read my poem, *WHO PAID THE PRICE? * from SOUTHERN WINDS. It actually means more today than it did when I lived the Book.I know that evry one of you wrote from your heart just as I did writing Southern Winds. Since then Georgia governor Ernest Vandiver passed away not too long long ago.He was my friend and he loved my writing.His life was threatened many times as he entered the first black students into the University of Georgia.He also began the first page of Southern Winds. So nice to look back on time and my history and to realize that all my writing hours I sacrificed were not in vain.Thanks again to all who shared and hopefully you will take the time to read FAtal Addiction.So far I have had about twenty-five folks say the words,"God bless you for writing Fatal Addiction.It has saved a number of lives and gotten many off of being hooked on drugs." Sincerely, Everett Beal Rph.

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 3/31/2006 6:10:21 PM
Amen...

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 2/2/2006 5:49:12 PM
good poem. Leslie

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 2/1/2002 6:56:51 AM
Wow! what a historical and descriptive piece you captured in a nice pictured filled with rhythm, thought and inpsiration. Look forward to seeing more of your work.

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 10/25/2001 4:24:53 PM
Dianne Kavanaugh Webb "Thank you for the privilege and the joy you have accorded me, by allowing me the honor of reading your manuscript. I am a 57-year-old 'southern girl' who has shared many of your life's experiences, having been raised in the South. Your book brought tears and laughter to me. I envy you, your ability to so beautifully and in-depth describe your evolving life and feelings. I am also grateful you acknowledged your Christian heritage, as this is one we also share. Many good wishes for your success."

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 10/24/2001 11:32:42 PM
You are an angel sent from God. You are my brother from the days of Harriet tubman. The ancestors rights of passage. The pure and the meek, The blessed heart. May God continue to allow you to speak for the just at heart. Many should be like you. Even the ones who look as me. There are no words to express of a man who's loyal to God. Which sees with his heart. And color has no barrier. Thank you my king. Prophet of the lord. May all your blessing be as now and forever more. Thank you for visiting talk city. We need more men as you. God is blind to the human flesh. Only the weight of the heart God judges. A man of Wisdom, Loyalty, Morals, and Respect. One love, One God, One Peace.

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 10/23/2001 4:55:15 PM
Mari K. Blue, Artist Milner, GA Reading Southern Winds as a descendant of slaves made me at various times uncomfortable, and very comfortable, and happy. You see, the discomfort as well the comfort come from what my heritage has instilled in me. There's just no getting around that. However, upon completion of the book, for the first time I can contemplate the view from the other side of the coin. The institution of slavery left in its wake, harm not only to the enslaved but the enslaver. It perpetuated division between peoples that have a concurrent history, customs and culture. Negative feeling and traditions on both sides of the issue were fed and grown to an ungainly proportion to the point that many good people continue to be set at odds over the issues bred from this era. As a student of history, I now have a more rounded view of all that has transpired during a period in history and since that history, as a product of that period in history. The entire world was wrapped in a system of beliefs and customs that today we may view as horrendous, but was life for those times. We must now deal with and make history for a new millennium by adjusting, changing and dealing with history that is past, in a productive and positive manner. I thank W. Everett Beal for exposing me to his side of the issues of southern tradition and culture in such an interesting, entertaining and heartfelt manner. He has illustrated to me that humanity transcends very difficult issues and traditions and that heritage is viable, valuable and real to all peoples and that it affects one's life and purpose. He has also shown me that inevitably humanity will have to be the cure to the division between peoples with differing views, issues, and cultures.

Who Paid The Price ? (Poetry) - 10/14/2001 6:05:50 PM
Mr. Beale has the courage to speak his peace of understanding. In this politically correct world we dare not defend the white man in an age where the African Americans use their anger about the past as an excuse for our nations future. The author captured my own feelings on the race issue. I too sympathize with the African American about this brutal past, however I believe that the African Americans have fought hard and won the rights and freedoms that are rightfully theirs. A people that has overcome so many odds should be grateful and remember how many White Americans fought and died for their freedom as well. Lets unite as one race and respect each other for who we are not the color of our skin or what distant ancestors might have perpetrated on each other. Good poem!