Livin' on a Prayer - The Untold Tommy & Gina Story

Book excerpt: Ah, the 80's anthem - "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi - the story of Tommy and Gina: two kids fighting the odds as they just try to give it a shot. In this story, however, Tommy doesn't work on a dock, and Gina doesn't work the diner all day. The thing is, every town has their own Tommy and Gina story. This one just happens to be a little more...unique. The seaside town of York, Maine is the backdrop to this tale, taking you from the 80s to the present day. This is not a Chicken Soup for the Soul type story. But, like soup, it contains many ingredients. Start with a 1/2 pot of Tommy - a Bon Jovi hairband-loving burnout. Add a 1/2 pot of Gina- a dressed-in-black, Cure-loving alterna-chick. Mix in plenty of 80's references then bring to a boil and stir. Add a splash of tragedy with a hint of that could never happen, could it? Sprinkle in a doctor who resembles Christopher Walken and who may or may not be in the mafia. Next, season with a little Mexican sidekick, a tablespoon of tenderness, a splash of a naughty Zumba instructor - at this point the mixture will stiffen. Finally, add three full cups of redemption, true love, and happily ever after! Garnish with yoga pants. In all seriousness, this book is a super-silly comedy, but with a big heart, and although it might be slightly more appreciated if you're from the 80's, it's definitely not a requirement. It's a fun, easy read that will keep you smiling and laughing the whole way though