This is not America (or ... is it?)

This deeply human collection of short stories explores the institutions of family and friendship and the shaken sexual relationships of people in Greece. The characters in these stories fight back against a tough reality as they are pushed to the very brink. Each story carves a sincere, dynamic path ending with a sense of harmony, justice, and optimism.

In Greece, nothing reminds us of America. Here, there is no Hollywood, Las Vegas, or Route 66 with motels built in the middle of nowhere. Here, everything seems different. Well, this is not America (or . . . is it?).

In A Good Day on the River, two brothers decide to visit their mother after twenty-five years. On their way, they stumble upon a gas station where something startling occurs.

In Do the Right Thing, a couple is pushed to the brink of separation when the Swedish wife decides to move back to her country with their teenage daughter.

In A Few Words of Grace, a woman loses her faith in God and in Can You Stay Sober Tonight? a man finds his.

In I Apologize to You, Sir after a widowed mother encounters racial violence, she writes a letter of indignation to a newspaper.  

Endorsements

“Wait a minute. We have a short story book on the Greeks, without the Gods, or the elements of fire, water, wind, and earth, and the chaos of war with spears and arrows and shields and naked, lustful women with dark curly hair, who muscled, brave men will fight and die for? Yes, we do. Because the Greeks of 2024 are just like anyone else, with the same issues that we all have, with women and men and love and life and money and politics and opinions that are all over the place, just like New Yorkers and Philadelphians and Californians and Texans and Washingtonians. But This is Not America. It's Greece, with stories well written from good Brother Georgios Andritsos. But I just Georgi for short. Like us American like to do.”

Omar Tyree, the New York Times bestselling author of CONTROL...

“This is Not America (or ... is it?) is an assemblage of short stories revolving around Greece's economic meltdown period. Each story involves a unique character with his/her own struggle, yet all stories are rooted in the same human plight and end with a reconciliation or resolution. Georgios Andritsos writes thought-provoking, riveting, emotional, and poignant stories that are fun to read and can relate to anyone anywhere. These stories will keep you mulling over human fragility and resilience!”

Sairung Wright, co-author of Separate.

“Short Stories by Georgios Andritsos are entertaining Greek stories to say the least. But an in-depth study reveals creatively drafted, beautifully descriptive prose. The author places the reader in the scene at the location of the action and allows the reader to experience the story without favor. I am confident that he has reached his objective of the highest artistic outcome. He leaves you satisfied, but cleverly wanting more. A great read.”

Bill Sheehan, Author A Tail Among Tales, Koehler Books

“This authentic collection of stories about the struggles for survival in Greece will make you wonder how its citizens face life every day. The compelling chronicles will make you laugh, cry, be shocked, and feel compassion for their often-desperate conditions. This work is very entertaining and informative and will probably make you want to visit this beautiful country. Bravo, Mr. Andritsos. Your book is outstanding!”

Michael A. Sisti, an International Book Award-winning author of ten books

“If you are looking for real stories and familiar characters that evoke the full spectrum of human emotion, then you need not look any further than this collection from Georgios Andritsos'. A culture strung out from its origins and gripping tales of loss and family struggle will have any reader moved to the core. The flow of Georgios writing is both soothing and engaging, leaving us longing for more from this thought-provoking author.”

Andrew Bryan, author Archangels Fall.

“This book's captivating stories offer spiritual and mental redemption through absolute honesty, showcasing the talent and intelligence of its skilled writer.”

Literary critic, Kyriaki Ganitis from Dominica Amat & Vivliovamon blogs

“George Andritsos' book of Greek short stories is a literary gem that showcases his remarkable talent as a storyteller. With each tale, he peels back the layers of human emotions, revealing the raw and authentic experiences that shape us. The richness of his writing, coupled with the universal themes explored, make this collection a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and captivating literary journey.”

Dimitrios P. Naskos - musicologist, creative writing coach and author