From the failure paradox, where people find success in failures, to the shrinking paradox, where letting go is necessary for growth, life is full of heavy contradictions. But for the most part, some of its more outstanding examples are found in literature and the media—beautifying compositions and tales.

One such instance is through a tragi-comedy story.

As the name suggests, this genre balances tragedy and comedy in a single narrative. It harmonizes both ends of the literary spectrum, each representing the lowest and highest of human emotion. A tragi-comedy story gives people reasons to cry for the characters’ agony and laugh at their comical banter, providing a beautiful fuse of these wonderful human experiences.

Today’s book feature will spotlight a story under this genre.

Dick and Jane Go to War by Stephen Lloyd Auslender follows both characters as they go through hoops during the war. Yet, despite serving and suffering during such a harrowing period, both still managed to see and bask in any light the situation allows—a perfect representation of a tragi-comedy story.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into their story.

Dick and Jane: What Do They Go Through?

Dick and Jane Go to War takes readers back to 1914 when the World War 1 broke out. But as a fictional tragi-comedy love war story, it doesn’t delve solely into the strife that took place. Instead, it juggles both excruciating events within the period and a comic romance blooming throughout and after it.

The book follows the unusual relationship between Reginald, a British nobility, and Vivian, an Austrian Countess. The two meet during the 1908 Paris Air Show, instantly click and fall in love. This sparks the start of their unusual adventures both separately and together. It is a heartwarmingly funny love story everyone of all ages would love to listen to.

Dick and Jane is the epitome of a tragi-comedy story. Readers would discover how author Stephen Lloyd Auslender concocted a wonderful merge between anguish and hilarious. It shows a funny window within what should’ve been the worst event in human history.

What Can Readers Expect From This Tragi-Comedy Story?

The book opens with what should’ve been a perfect meet-cute in every romance story. But in the case of Dick and Jane, their introduction happened under a ridiculous circumstance.

“I am Count Hyman von und zu Hockputz uff der Cherman cavalry. Ya, mine darling Va Va alzo hit mine noze as she swung her arms back zo vide in her childish enthusiasm…”

This line from one of the characters sets the story’s opening scene. It paints the situation under which the protagonists meet a rather peculiar meeting. While readers should expect a love story between Reginald and Vivian, this won’t unravel in the way they expect it to.

Fun. Heartfelt. Exciting. Unfortunate.

Readers will go through a rollercoaster experience while reading this tragi-comedy story. From the characters’ eccentric names and ridiculous situations to melancholy the war brings, Dick and Jane Go to War is the perfect fix for any mood.

An Excerpt From the Book

The effervescent darling girl said that with such a smile on her face that I had to smile in turn. “It is nothing, my dear,” I said. “After all, blood may complement the color of my red uniform rather well.”

“I know,” she said sprightly. “Now we three shall examine these wonderful flying machines, arm and arm in arm. You don’t need to try to clean or change your clothing. Both of you being bloody may leave people to think that you fought over me and believe that both of you are my lovers.”

Dick and Jane: Is It Worth the Read?

If you’re looking for a fun and hearty read, then Dick and Jane Go to War is definitely a book you should check out. The book perfectly represents a tragi-comedy story that will leave readers crying, both in sadness and laughter. It provides a glimpse of what life was like during World War I and a reassurance that there will always be happiness in the face of misery.

ReadersMagnet highly recommends Dick and Jane. It’s a humorous and interesting take on life that will leave you wanting more. Experience a plethora of emotions through its pages. Grab a copy now! You may also visit Stephen Lloyd Auslender’s website to learn more about him and his works.

About the Author

Stephen Lloyd Auslender may not be an author by profession, but he has mastered what it takes to make something extraordinary. Over the past fifty-plus years, he has worked in mechanical sculpture and design, and within these years, he’s developed both a comedic and tragic perception of life. He started his writing career after retiring from his mechanical design and education professions.

Now, he enjoys sculpting and writing as a retiree.