Books by Jay Beck

Jay Beck has continued writing about the fascinating adventures of political consultant, Mark Young, in his next book, "Casting Stones." Set in Greece during the 1985 elections, the historical novel pits the United States against the Soviet Union in a battle over Greece's future political economic soul. The novel is set in the turbulent times of airline hijackings, terror bombing and assassinations. The Soviet KGB, Greek secret police and terrorists all conspire against Mark Young as he tries to win a national election while simultaneously rescuing the most valuable ancient sculpture ever created. Mark is torn between the turmoil in Greece and a critical situation threatening to end his relationship with his girlfriend, Vicki back in Washington, D.C. All of these diverse threads come together in an unexpected and thrilling conclusion.

Offering detailed case studies of key films and filmmakers, Jay Beck explores how sound design was central to the 1960s and 1970s era of experimentation with new modes of cinematic storytelling. He demonstrates how sound was key to many directors' signature aesthetics. Yet the book also examines sound design as a collaborative process.