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LARRY KATZ

“Three Stories and a Fable” is a captivating memoir weaving
personal history with cultural commentary and philosophical reflection based on a willingness to gamble with no regard for risk. From a narrow escape in the Vietnam war to high-stakes poker games in Las Vegas, Nevada and a multimillion-dollar business deal with roots in Beijing, China, Katz turns life lessons into unforgettable stories.

About the Book

THREE STORIES AND A FABLE

Play a little game and take a little trip: Imagine yourself trapped in a reality with all the makings of a never-ending nightmare that holds you hostage for a ransom you can’t pay and a tie you can’t cut. You’re only aware of one way to get away and the danger is undeniable and unavoidable. The odds of survival are unknown but it’s a good bet that you’re about to run out of birthday celebrations. All you know for sure is that you want out of the trap and nothing else matters. Bottom line: It’s the ultimate gamble. It was just imagination to you but it was as real as your next breath for the subjects of the story. The tale might read like a five-star stretch of any truth, but it all happened just as it’s written, and I oughta know because I’m the one who wrote it.

The three stories range in tone from dead serious to playfully poetic with sprinkles of humor for flavor and fun. They are uniquely different in storyline but captivating enough to grab you by your literary lapels and hold tight till the ride is over. The adventures were penned from firsthand experience, and I didn’t cheat to make them more exciting or entertaining…because I didn’t have to cheat. 

A good book is like a puzzle with thousands of pieces that have to fit just right for the chance to be called a masterpiece. The voice has to speak with enough energy and clarity to avoid any misunderstanding in the message, and I’ve got enough nerve to declare the accomplishment achieved. Politics, poker, and the power of perseverance make up the bones of the book, but the meat and the muscle came from the struggle to finish the puzzle.

As a schoolboy I was much more likely to pick up a baseball or a bicycle before I ever picked up a book, and that didn’t change until I got older and began to appreciate the power and the punch of a perfectly phrased sentence. I eventually taught the trick to myself but I never went looking for stories to write — they came banging on my brain and begged me to fight till I got it right. So I grew up after learning to shake off a blunder and slowed down enough to turn thought into thunder.

There are no wasted words here so it isn’t real long, but you just might love the melody because it reads just like a song.

About the Author

Larry Katz is a self-taught writer and thinker whose life has been defined by risk and resilience and a fearless spirit for adventure. These tales are as diverse as they are compelling, turning tough challenges into pivotal moments of self-discovery. He paints the best picture of himself through his words, and he writes with a style that will leave you with a smile.

Book

What's Inside the Book

A Journey Through Love, Loss & Lasting Bonds

A Narrow Escape

Larry recounts the 1969 draft lottery, narrowly avoiding Vietnam, and critiques the war's futility.

High-Stakes Life

From poker tournaments to brokering international deals, Katz navigates risk and resilience in Las Vegas.

A Perilous Journey

Lynn's family flees Vietnam by boat, facing storms and rescue by a U.S. Navy ship.

A Modern Fable

A witty retelling of 'The Tortoise and the Hare' explores humility, perseverance, and life's unexpected lessons.

Testimonials

Discover what readers are saying about the book

Larry Katz's "Three Stories and a Fable" is a powerful mix of history and personal reflection. The Vietnam draft story gripped me, and Lynn's escape was both harrowing and inspiring. Katz's writing is raw and honest, making this memoir unforgettable. A must-read for those who are interested in resilience and the human spirit.

John Anderson Reader

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions! From the tension of the draft lottery to the heart-pounding escape from Vietnam, Katz masterfully weaves personal and historical narratives. The poker and business anecdotes add a unique twist. The modern fable at the end is both clever and thought-provoking. Highly recommend.

Sarah Mitchell Reader

Katz's memoir is a testament to the power of perseverance. The Vietnam stories are deeply moving, and his poker adventures are thrilling. The fable adds a delightful touch of humor and wisdom. Katz's ability to connect personal experiences with broader themes makes this book a standout. Truly inspiring.

Michael Thompson Reader

Three Stories and a Fable is a captivating read. Katz's storytelling is vivid and engaging, especially the escape from Vietnam, which left me on the edge of my seat. The poker and business sections offer fascinating insights, and the fable is a perfect ending. A beautifully written memoir that stays with you long after you finish.

Emily Carter Reader

10+

Years of experiance

42

Event Speaker

20+

Book Published

1000+

Happy Readers

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