The Pilgrim

Set in 1969, the story chronicles one year in the life of the author. Fresh out of high school, he travels to south Florida with his father to work in the booming construction business. He is soon swept up in the late sixties’ world of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Questioning his own values and the morals of those around him, our hero takes many paths on his journey to self-discovery. Social unrest, racial injustice, the Vietnam War and the specter of recent assassinations are just some of the issues facing the youth of this era. Throw in young love and the pitfalls that it brings and the story gets even more complicated. Funny, insightful and sometimes heartbreaking, this is the age-old story of young versus old, ideals versus reality. Told in a fresh, entertaining manner, the story will leave you anticipating a sequel.

1969. Social unrest, racial injustice, the sexual revolution. All play a part in the story of one young man’s journey to self-discovery. The Pilgim chronicles one year in the life of the author. Fresh out of high school, our hero travels to south Florida with his father to work in the booming construction business. Along the way he meets characters that would leave an everlasting impact on his life. Sunshine, the easygoing hippie hustler, always looking for the next score. Reed, the hard-nosed construction worker who taught him that all men are equal, in spite of race or social standing. Joanne, the rich, party girl who harbored sexual secrets. Music plays a large part in the story, as we follow the aspiring singer-songwriter through several performances, paying his dues as he goes. Through a flashback chapter, we learn more about the author and the volatile mood of the sixties. Characters are introduced that later become integral to the complete story. As the story progresses, the main character begins to question his values and the values of those around him. Old and new conflicts are confronted and attempted to be resolved. Ultimately the pilgrim moves on, leaving behind people and unanswered questions. Funny, insightful and sometimes heartbreaking, this is the age-old story of young versus old, ideals versus reality. Told in a fresh, entertaining manner, the story will leave you anticipating a sequel.

Dennis Bieker was born in a small mid-western town in the early 1950’s. Music and literature have always played an important role in his life. Learning guitar at the age of twelve led to numerous stints with bands in the area. After graduating from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, Dennis worked for several music publishers in Nashville. With music styles constantly changing, Dennis moved to a career in healthcare, where he currently holds a position with one of the largest healthcare companies in the United States. Dennis has never lost his passion for music and is currently working on his latest collection of songs recorded in his home studio. To hear a sample of his recorded work, go to Noisetrade.com and type in the author’s name. Dennis lives in Spring Hill, TN with his wife Sundee and their dog Little Girl.