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The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk #2
The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk, Volume II
He's a middle-aged, newly single, gay photographer starting life over. Along comes a freshly out nineteen-year-old, irreverent free spirit who wants to be his apprentice. Mismatched by more than a generation, what could possibly go wrong? Everything! And it's AWESOME!
A "Muse" ing: Most authors struggle with the voices or "muses" in their head when writing. Tuning that voice out becomes a little more challenging when your muse is a real-life nineteen-year-old who inhales espresso and turns out ideas at light speed. Danger Will Robinson!
Daddy and The Rent Boy: In selling something, advertising is half the battle. That can become hazardous when you're in the company of an irreverent walking billboard.
A "Muse" ing: Most authors struggle with the voices or "muses" in their head when writing. Tuning that voice out becomes a little more challenging when your muse is a real-life nineteen-year-old who inhales espresso and turns out ideas at light speed. Danger Will Robinson!
Daddy and The Rent Boy: In selling something, advertising is half the battle. That can become hazardous when you're in the company of an irreverent walking billboard.
38 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2016
7 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Dan Skinner
20 books428 followersDan Skinner is a new author who hates writing bios. He lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and has been a book cover artist for seven years.
Visit Dan's deviantart profile for more works of art.
Visit Dan's deviantart profile for more works of art.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 20, 2016
Love loooove the writing and love the person we know as Dirk.
Adorable, intelligent, sensitive, humorous, cheerful, witty and honest and those are the ingredients to be a great personality. I hope he knows that he's loved. And I hope he knows how precious it is to be someone's muse. It's a honor to be yourself and be a muse.
No pressure at all hahaha
Again a great story with so much big smiles and understanding.
But it also sensitive because you can feel it....the honest
Dirk I think it is a very good idea to let Doc take pictures of you. You have to give him that, trust his profession!
And o gosh Dirk gives good advices, every day a new day to learn!
And stepping into someone's personal space obvious.....I like that...it is about trust and awareness.... I just love the freshness of it.
The isms are wonderful....what a great personality.... .
His t-shirts....the lines on it.....I love it how he shakes the world awake from its slumber.
I would love to live in Dirksville
And this all is so wonderful observed and written down by Dan who let us enjoy...thank you!
Deep bow
Adorable, intelligent, sensitive, humorous, cheerful, witty and honest and those are the ingredients to be a great personality. I hope he knows that he's loved. And I hope he knows how precious it is to be someone's muse. It's a honor to be yourself and be a muse.
No pressure at all hahaha
Again a great story with so much big smiles and understanding.
But it also sensitive because you can feel it....the honest
Dirk I think it is a very good idea to let Doc take pictures of you. You have to give him that, trust his profession!
And o gosh Dirk gives good advices, every day a new day to learn!
And stepping into someone's personal space obvious.....I like that...it is about trust and awareness.... I just love the freshness of it.
The isms are wonderful....what a great personality.... .
His t-shirts....the lines on it.....I love it how he shakes the world awake from its slumber.
I would love to live in Dirksville
And this all is so wonderful observed and written down by Dan who let us enjoy...thank you!
Deep bow
September 27, 2016
This serial is cute and fun. Dan Skinner's writing style is casual and easy, there's a lot of joy that jumps out of the Kindle pages as you read about Doc (aka Dan) and Dirk. Dirk is Doc's nineteen year old ADHD, unfiltered photography apprentice and muse for his stories... and a bit of a fluorescent tube in Doc's life.
So, you see, in spite of the perils of dealing with a hyperactive and highly unpredictable teenager, it's worth the gamble if a prize is suddenly snatched from the box of Cracker Jacks that is his thought process.
Thanksgiving with the unfiltered Dirk and his family is interesting, as is any communication someone enters into with Dirk...
"GRANDMAMA: What's the matter with you, sweetheart?
DIRK: Dan destroyed my ass the other day.
And the room goes silent. Woulda been nice for him to tell them that we had worked out together... but then... that's not the way he rolls.
Later his mother told me she was seriously considering handing out leaflets to all her guests instructing them that if he walked through the room to ignore him."
I think I'm old, I agree with Dirk's mother about the t-shirts he wears, but the one that impacted Doc was pretty damn funny. And Dirk is a little bastard - said with much affection.
He'd worn the shirt inside out. As he corrected this, I could see the message emblazoned in large white letters on front: “I'm with Daddy.” I felt dismayed.
"Really?" I said and realized my tone reflected the same exasperation I'd heard in his mother’s.
He grinned. "They'll think I'm a Rent Boy. How cool is that?"
Funny for the reader, probably not so much when there is quite the age gap, one that could make Doc think about it for a split second or two. Pfft.Dirk is not worried about age gaps or decorum going out to a diner with Doc, his t-shirt blazing out his cheeky words and his attitude backing them up...
As we stepped through the entrance, he said, in a very theatrical voice, "And that's all the things I'll do for fifty bucks."
All eyes turned to us. I had the inclination to run, but he pulled me in his traction toward a booth near the center of the room where I still felt the eyes staring at us. "You're a piss ant," I told him under my breath.
If you want a short and sweet kick, this is a nice serial to get hooked on. I'll be reading #3 when it comes out.
So, you see, in spite of the perils of dealing with a hyperactive and highly unpredictable teenager, it's worth the gamble if a prize is suddenly snatched from the box of Cracker Jacks that is his thought process.
Thanksgiving with the unfiltered Dirk and his family is interesting, as is any communication someone enters into with Dirk...
"GRANDMAMA: What's the matter with you, sweetheart?
DIRK: Dan destroyed my ass the other day.
And the room goes silent. Woulda been nice for him to tell them that we had worked out together... but then... that's not the way he rolls.
Later his mother told me she was seriously considering handing out leaflets to all her guests instructing them that if he walked through the room to ignore him."
I think I'm old, I agree with Dirk's mother about the t-shirts he wears, but the one that impacted Doc was pretty damn funny. And Dirk is a little bastard - said with much affection.
He'd worn the shirt inside out. As he corrected this, I could see the message emblazoned in large white letters on front: “I'm with Daddy.” I felt dismayed.
"Really?" I said and realized my tone reflected the same exasperation I'd heard in his mother’s.
He grinned. "They'll think I'm a Rent Boy. How cool is that?"
Funny for the reader, probably not so much when there is quite the age gap, one that could make Doc think about it for a split second or two. Pfft.Dirk is not worried about age gaps or decorum going out to a diner with Doc, his t-shirt blazing out his cheeky words and his attitude backing them up...
As we stepped through the entrance, he said, in a very theatrical voice, "And that's all the things I'll do for fifty bucks."
All eyes turned to us. I had the inclination to run, but he pulled me in his traction toward a booth near the center of the room where I still felt the eyes staring at us. "You're a piss ant," I told him under my breath.
If you want a short and sweet kick, this is a nice serial to get hooked on. I'll be reading #3 when it comes out.
November 11, 2016
Charming, Entertaining Misadventures of a middle aged guy....I love Dirks outlook on life.....makes me GRIN BIG!!
Dan always hit's the right spot for me....with his unique writing style!!
Dan always hit's the right spot for me....with his unique writing style!!
September 7, 2016
I had so much fun reading volume one that I've practically been holding my breath for the next episode in Doc and Dirk's world. I couldn't wait to read more hilarity and to see the blossoming friendship between these two men continue to unfold. I was hoping to see more of Dirk's mom because she's hilarious and watching her and Dirk verbally sparring is way better than anything you can find on TV.
Doc might just be in the running for sainthood while dealing with Dirk's absolute lack of a verbal filter and personal space. I think part of the reason their friendship and teacher/apprentice relationship works is because Doc also has ADHD and can understand some of the vagaries that are Dirk. The description of Doc having Thanksgiving at Dirk's with his mom and grandmama had me rolling I was laughing so hard. I could picture Dirk's grandmama in my head asking for wine in a really big glass after Dirk talked about the size of the barista's junk at his coffee shop.
Oh, I loved reading about how Dirk became Doc's muse. He's a brilliant young man with a very unique perspective on life. Thank you, Doc ,for more of the Dirkisms. You have to read these to know what I'm talking about. But, I would recommend not drinking anything while you do. Water hurts coming out of your nose. And, Dirk? I would've paid good money to have been at the diner that night. *laughingoutrageously*
I love these ficlets into the lives of two men I adore. The humor is addictive but, for me at least, it's the joy in knowing that Doc isn't so alone anymore and he has a beautiful muse to help him through any dark times that may come. As far as I am concerned these short stories are complete and total must-reads!
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Doc might just be in the running for sainthood while dealing with Dirk's absolute lack of a verbal filter and personal space. I think part of the reason their friendship and teacher/apprentice relationship works is because Doc also has ADHD and can understand some of the vagaries that are Dirk. The description of Doc having Thanksgiving at Dirk's with his mom and grandmama had me rolling I was laughing so hard. I could picture Dirk's grandmama in my head asking for wine in a really big glass after Dirk talked about the size of the barista's junk at his coffee shop.
Oh, I loved reading about how Dirk became Doc's muse. He's a brilliant young man with a very unique perspective on life. Thank you, Doc ,for more of the Dirkisms. You have to read these to know what I'm talking about. But, I would recommend not drinking anything while you do. Water hurts coming out of your nose. And, Dirk? I would've paid good money to have been at the diner that night. *laughingoutrageously*
I love these ficlets into the lives of two men I adore. The humor is addictive but, for me at least, it's the joy in knowing that Doc isn't so alone anymore and he has a beautiful muse to help him through any dark times that may come. As far as I am concerned these short stories are complete and total must-reads!
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
March 11, 2021
Photographer apprentice and writer's muse for writer's block
When t-shirt comments become Dirkisms and triggers for emotional flashbacks, the true power of a muse to ignite the story development of the writer into a claim g adventure that captures everyone's attention, the vegan diet requirements make a kitchen inspection into a learning and doping experience. Doc discovers the importance of napkins and Dirk brings bathtub manners to a shared tub conversation. If only Dirk power could be controlled to power the electrical grid.
When t-shirt comments become Dirkisms and triggers for emotional flashbacks, the true power of a muse to ignite the story development of the writer into a claim g adventure that captures everyone's attention, the vegan diet requirements make a kitchen inspection into a learning and doping experience. Doc discovers the importance of napkins and Dirk brings bathtub manners to a shared tub conversation. If only Dirk power could be controlled to power the electrical grid.
November 16, 2017
First off let me say I am loving this... that said I am totally exhausted. I cannot imagine how exhausting would be to hang out in person with Dirk considering I feel like someone wiped the floor with me. I swear the only way I could keep up with him would be to go off my meds and hang out when I reach the manic stage. This story is funny, charming and totally worth the read. I don't know it is based on real life or comes from the authors fertile imagination, either way it is awesome!
September 16, 2016
I was very much looking forward to Volume II, and am not disappointed. I have been reading this with a big grin on my face. And am looking forward to Volume III.
Oh, and this, before I go. I agree on vampires and veganism, I disagree on farts, Bieber and Daddies. Doc and Dirk, see you next time :)
Oh, and this, before I go. I agree on vampires and veganism, I disagree on farts, Bieber and Daddies. Doc and Dirk, see you next time :)
September 13, 2016
That Darn Muse is at it again, and the Dirkisms continue. I giggled a lot. Mostly because Dan sounds a bit exasperated with the obliviousness of said muse, and also because of how Dirk's mind works. I snickered, giggled, laughed out loud.
Dirk has zero boundaries. Prime example: He'll just insert himself into the same tub where Dan is taking a bath, arranging their limbs just so, completely unabashed and completely oblivious to Dan's WTF face.
The t-shirts - OMG, especially that one Dirk wears when they're out for dinner. Bwahahahahahaha!!!
But there are also serious undertones here, especially when Dan talks about the muse part. It's not that he puts up with Dirk as much as he appreciates him for his youthful irreverence, enthusiasm, and complete lack of shame. Dirk inspires him, in more ways than just one, and really, isn't that a blessing?
Fabulous insight into their relationship (totally chaste, even if Dirk is half-naked a lot and Dan's you-know-what takes notice), and the adorable personality of a beautiful boy whose mind is even more beautiful than what you see at first glance.
Can't wait for the next one!!
** I received a free copy of this book from the author's Marketer/Promoter. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Dirk has zero boundaries. Prime example: He'll just insert himself into the same tub where Dan is taking a bath, arranging their limbs just so, completely unabashed and completely oblivious to Dan's WTF face.
The t-shirts - OMG, especially that one Dirk wears when they're out for dinner. Bwahahahahahaha!!!
But there are also serious undertones here, especially when Dan talks about the muse part. It's not that he puts up with Dirk as much as he appreciates him for his youthful irreverence, enthusiasm, and complete lack of shame. Dirk inspires him, in more ways than just one, and really, isn't that a blessing?
Fabulous insight into their relationship (totally chaste, even if Dirk is half-naked a lot and Dan's you-know-what takes notice), and the adorable personality of a beautiful boy whose mind is even more beautiful than what you see at first glance.
Can't wait for the next one!!
** I received a free copy of this book from the author's Marketer/Promoter. A positive review was not promised in return. **
September 20, 2016
I love this pair! I sat reading this in my doctor's office, and I drew a number of strange looks when I had to cover my mouth to keep my laughter muffled. Dirk's road trip with Tom was priceless, (the farter and the jack-off king? *cough*) and the T-shirts Dirk has made up are amazing. Instead of being a photographer or a vegan chef, he could get a job with What On Earth and come up with the slogans for their tees.
Looking forward to Vol. 3!
Looking forward to Vol. 3!
September 13, 2016
Don't ever change Dirk.
Just like Volume 1 I laughed,chuckled and snorted my way through Volume 2, but I also got an overwhelming sense of gratitude and proudness.
I have my own 17 3/4yr old Dirk. I've spent at least the last 17 yrs in a continual state of tension, waiting for what will come out of his mouth next, who will be offended because they can't keep up with the quick one liners and sarcasm. When he comes down to stand in front of the mirror I'm praying he's at least wearing a sock, scrutinizing school and family photos for the inevitable sneaky bollock.
I'm so grateful and proud as I'm sure Dirk's mom is that we brought these unique cretins into the world. No matter how many stress headaches, cringeworthy moments and total exasperation we go through daily, the lights do go out when they are away. Living in the mundane world without them around is soul destroying.
Dirk you keep the lights burning for many people and your mom and I keep the Vodka and Wine industry booming with our need to drink to get us through each and every hilariously funny but exhausting day.
Thank You for being You.
Just like Volume 1 I laughed,chuckled and snorted my way through Volume 2, but I also got an overwhelming sense of gratitude and proudness.
I have my own 17 3/4yr old Dirk. I've spent at least the last 17 yrs in a continual state of tension, waiting for what will come out of his mouth next, who will be offended because they can't keep up with the quick one liners and sarcasm. When he comes down to stand in front of the mirror I'm praying he's at least wearing a sock, scrutinizing school and family photos for the inevitable sneaky bollock.
I'm so grateful and proud as I'm sure Dirk's mom is that we brought these unique cretins into the world. No matter how many stress headaches, cringeworthy moments and total exasperation we go through daily, the lights do go out when they are away. Living in the mundane world without them around is soul destroying.
Dirk you keep the lights burning for many people and your mom and I keep the Vodka and Wine industry booming with our need to drink to get us through each and every hilariously funny but exhausting day.
Thank You for being You.
September 23, 2016
I am so torn about these episodes! I truly love the story, but I want more as soon as I finish!!!!
Dirk and his family are amazing! I think that I could really learn a lot as a mother from his Mom and Grandma..lol
I love how patient Doc is with Dirk and all his quirks, like no bathtime privacy or no shame of just knocking one out when the mood hits Derk and don’t even get me started on his amazing t-shirt designs. I also would give anything to watch the video that Dirk and his college buddy shot on their road trip, I bet Dirk gives the best commentary EVER!!!
I again sit here and wait for Episode 3 so I can get more Doc and Dirk amazingness. Please hurry!!!
I give this Episode 4.5 stars
Dirk and his family are amazing! I think that I could really learn a lot as a mother from his Mom and Grandma..lol
I love how patient Doc is with Dirk and all his quirks, like no bathtime privacy or no shame of just knocking one out when the mood hits Derk and don’t even get me started on his amazing t-shirt designs. I also would give anything to watch the video that Dirk and his college buddy shot on their road trip, I bet Dirk gives the best commentary EVER!!!
I again sit here and wait for Episode 3 so I can get more Doc and Dirk amazingness. Please hurry!!!
I give this Episode 4.5 stars
September 18, 2016
Another laugh out loud instalment of this series. The Daddy and the Rent Boy story was hilarious, Dirk and those tshirts are just something else. I think we all need someone like Dirk in our lives, someone who can always make you smile and see the funny side no matter what the situation. A little bit of brightness and light in what can be a dull life. Dan and Dirk are very lucky to have found each other and to be able to have such a beautiful friendship.
September 16, 2016
After reading volume 1 I knew I was in for a treat the second time around, but I feel like this book dug a little deeper, emotionally and I loved it.
Can we talk about Dirk's t-shirts for a moment. Hilarious. Original. Priceless. The shirts are so funny, but they give you a glimpse at the strong personality that is Dirk. That no matter how uncomfortable the shirt may make you, he will wear it with his head held high.
I love that the relationship between Dan and Dirk goes beyond writer/muse. The true appreciation and admiration Dan has for his muse, and the time and effort both put in to cultivating the relationship is apparent and genuine.
The story of Dirk and Tom's road trip had be laughing out loud. Thanksgiving with Dirk's mom and grandma was awesome. This was a great volume 2, whoa baby I can not wait for volume 3.
Arc provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review by Two Chicks Obsessed.
Can we talk about Dirk's t-shirts for a moment. Hilarious. Original. Priceless. The shirts are so funny, but they give you a glimpse at the strong personality that is Dirk. That no matter how uncomfortable the shirt may make you, he will wear it with his head held high.
I love that the relationship between Dan and Dirk goes beyond writer/muse. The true appreciation and admiration Dan has for his muse, and the time and effort both put in to cultivating the relationship is apparent and genuine.
The story of Dirk and Tom's road trip had be laughing out loud. Thanksgiving with Dirk's mom and grandma was awesome. This was a great volume 2, whoa baby I can not wait for volume 3.
Arc provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review by Two Chicks Obsessed.
June 26, 2017
These little episodes make me so happy that someone like Dirk really exists and can inspire such stories. He sounds like a real handful at times and good on Doc for being able to, what it seems like, take it all in stride. I like that Doc is such a great mentor/teacher and that Dirk is able to give back by his random thoughts. These two make a great team, it seems and I enjoy getting to read about it.
Doc Savage!!! That is so funny!!!! And those shirts! I wouldn't be embarrassed by them, though I can see how a mother would be. Grandmama seems like my kinda lady too, with her "the largest large glass" haha
The beginning of the story is a recap of episode 1, which kind of reminds me when you watch a show, mainly superhero ones, how they recap you on the previous episode. I'm just sad that they're this short. Once you get going you wanna keep going, but it's also kind of fun waiting for the next one and what Dirk will do or say next and what next project will unfold from Doc from these musings :)
Doc Savage!!! That is so funny!!!! And those shirts! I wouldn't be embarrassed by them, though I can see how a mother would be. Grandmama seems like my kinda lady too, with her "the largest large glass" haha
The beginning of the story is a recap of episode 1, which kind of reminds me when you watch a show, mainly superhero ones, how they recap you on the previous episode. I'm just sad that they're this short. Once you get going you wanna keep going, but it's also kind of fun waiting for the next one and what Dirk will do or say next and what next project will unfold from Doc from these musings :)
September 21, 2016
If you want a short read that is guaranteed to make you laugh your ass off, then you need to read this !!
I swear that if ever a TV company were looking at making a new sitcom, guaranteed to be a hit, they'd just need to contact Doc & Dirk !!! Seriously, Dirk needs his own show !! I absolutely love EVERYTHING about Dirk & Doc........I mean c'mon, what's not to love, although at times i'm sure Doc would love to burn Dirks novelty shirts, and maybe add a "brain to mouth" filter to him, but if he did that then Dirk wouldn't be Dirk...... It's great also seeing how Dirk inspires Doc, even though sometimes he does pick the most inopportune time to do so......... I seriously hope though that he never loses the use of his hands, if he did then Doc would be at a loss seeing as Dirk's hands are required to help him "think" !!
Yet another fantastically funny, frisky and insightful view into what Doc goes through with Dirk on a regular basis !!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC !!
I swear that if ever a TV company were looking at making a new sitcom, guaranteed to be a hit, they'd just need to contact Doc & Dirk !!! Seriously, Dirk needs his own show !! I absolutely love EVERYTHING about Dirk & Doc........I mean c'mon, what's not to love, although at times i'm sure Doc would love to burn Dirks novelty shirts, and maybe add a "brain to mouth" filter to him, but if he did that then Dirk wouldn't be Dirk...... It's great also seeing how Dirk inspires Doc, even though sometimes he does pick the most inopportune time to do so......... I seriously hope though that he never loses the use of his hands, if he did then Doc would be at a loss seeing as Dirk's hands are required to help him "think" !!
Yet another fantastically funny, frisky and insightful view into what Doc goes through with Dirk on a regular basis !!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC !!
September 18, 2016
Oh where oh where do I begin!? When I read volume one I didn't think I could laugh any harder. Until this came along. Dirk... I dunno with that boy! How Doc gets anything done ever is beyond me. The things that come out of Dirk's mouth. I could never eat or drink near him. I'd be spitting on everyone!
Once again this is a laughfest, truly. Dirk's questions, revelations, realizations, just plain old reasoning is something from another planet.
I will say that he has a time or two made me actually think. Dirk lacks a filter and you soon learn that means that at any given moment anything can... and likely will, happen!
This is a priceless gem as is volume one so I highly recommend both of these and to keep an eye out for the next installment!
Once again this is a laughfest, truly. Dirk's questions, revelations, realizations, just plain old reasoning is something from another planet.
I will say that he has a time or two made me actually think. Dirk lacks a filter and you soon learn that means that at any given moment anything can... and likely will, happen!
This is a priceless gem as is volume one so I highly recommend both of these and to keep an eye out for the next installment!
September 27, 2016
The second book of Doc and Dirks adventure..and what a treat this is.
As I´ve said over and over, Dirk is the most adorable kid in the world and what he says and does, just make me love him more.
Then there are Dirks Mom; she has to be the most patient Mom in the world, to keep up with a kid like Dirk.
But we does have to remember Doc too, he is the biggest part of the misadventues as he is the one to put up with Dirk all through this;) And he is doing wonderfully.....even if Dirk is going out and beyond Doc makes the "straight man". Not "Straight" straight, but you know what I mean.
I love and adore those guys, and will be keepeing a keen eye out for their next adventure ♥♥
As I´ve said over and over, Dirk is the most adorable kid in the world and what he says and does, just make me love him more.
Then there are Dirks Mom; she has to be the most patient Mom in the world, to keep up with a kid like Dirk.
But we does have to remember Doc too, he is the biggest part of the misadventues as he is the one to put up with Dirk all through this;) And he is doing wonderfully.....even if Dirk is going out and beyond Doc makes the "straight man". Not "Straight" straight, but you know what I mean.
I love and adore those guys, and will be keepeing a keen eye out for their next adventure ♥♥
September 24, 2016
Another LOL installment! Not giving anything away, my favorite part was Doc finally squirming in discomfort at one of his muse's more creative attempts! I did literally laugh out loud. Love this series :-)
March 17, 2017
Just plain fun
Just like the first volume with tons of fun on the pages. Dirk would be exhausting as a friend, but wouldn't want him not to be a friend. 4.0 for road trips.
Just like the first volume with tons of fun on the pages. Dirk would be exhausting as a friend, but wouldn't want him not to be a friend. 4.0 for road trips.
September 20, 2016
5 ***** Stars
Book: The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk
Series: Vol 2
Author: Dan Skinner
Publisher; Dan Skinner
Genre: Comedy Adventure
Rated: Mature M/M
If you have read any of his books, you know Dan Skinner is talented. Some of his novels, have been written from real life, his life. Memorizing You, The Bible Boys, The Art of The Heart and the Price of Dick truly are part of him. But it wasn’t until Xperiment that his name exploded….and his muse came to the fore front.
Dan had a big break up, His photography still his passion, but to soothe his soul he began writing, sharing with an audience his stories with a vengeance. Life changes had him meet a smart, adorable ADHD teenager who would become his friend and muse and he and Dirk’s family would surround Dan in a cocoon of a new strong family.
This level of story telling is like a Laurel and Hardy or Martin and Lewis with on liners from Dirk that are outrageous, hilarious and keep Dan Skinner to remain on his A Game. I love reading these vignettes…What’s not to love?
Can’t wait for more
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
Book: The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk
Series: Vol 2
Author: Dan Skinner
Publisher; Dan Skinner
Genre: Comedy Adventure
Rated: Mature M/M
If you have read any of his books, you know Dan Skinner is talented. Some of his novels, have been written from real life, his life. Memorizing You, The Bible Boys, The Art of The Heart and the Price of Dick truly are part of him. But it wasn’t until Xperiment that his name exploded….and his muse came to the fore front.
Dan had a big break up, His photography still his passion, but to soothe his soul he began writing, sharing with an audience his stories with a vengeance. Life changes had him meet a smart, adorable ADHD teenager who would become his friend and muse and he and Dirk’s family would surround Dan in a cocoon of a new strong family.
This level of story telling is like a Laurel and Hardy or Martin and Lewis with on liners from Dirk that are outrageous, hilarious and keep Dan Skinner to remain on his A Game. I love reading these vignettes…What’s not to love?
Can’t wait for more
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
October 6, 2016
This book could also have been titled ‘The Birth of the MuseNerd’ as we learn how he inspires Doc/Dan to write A Summer of Guiltless Sex (and thank you very much for that moment of inspiration, MuseNerd; I simply adored that book) as well as this particular series of delightful reads.
Getting to know Dirk is a pure pleasure. I imagine it might be quite exhausting in real life, but on my Kindle he is wonderful company. His honesty and lack of filters are in fact refreshing in a world where political correctness does appear to have gone mad. All of us have been programmed, from a very early age, to think before we speak and to not stand out – fade to grey, don’t look for the spotlight, don’t stand out from the crowd. Dirk isn’t built that way and couldn’t stop standing out if you paid him to do so. Personally I think the world would be a nicer, probably more tolerant and definitely more entertaining place if we could all take at least a small leaf out of Dirk’s book and occasionally approach life with uncensored honesty without fearing the repercussions.
While we obviously get to know Dirk better with each subsequent instalment of this series, the same can be said for Doc/Dan. Not that he describes himself in details similar to the one he uses for his apprentice. It is more that we get an insight in to the author from the way he reacts to and thinks about Dirk as he describes their misadventures.
Our Dirk is an undemanding muse. He’s not in it for recognition. He just has these genius ideas for stories and sequels to stories and, because he has no filter, he blurts them out, leaving Doc/Dan scrambling to keep up while writing them all down on whatever writing material he can find.
“…sometimes only ten words out of a thousand I say make sense. So if you can make sense of it, more power, dude.”
The Dirkisms, both those shared by Doc/Dan on Facebook and the ones you’ll find in this book are fun. I thought about sharing one or two of them here but that would mean having to choose, pick favourites, and that’s just impossible for me. I’ll say this much though, if you want to read with a huge grin on your face and happy spreading through your body, read them these books and the Dirkisms they contain for yourself; they will, without a doubt, brighten your day.
Getting to know Dirk is a pure pleasure. I imagine it might be quite exhausting in real life, but on my Kindle he is wonderful company. His honesty and lack of filters are in fact refreshing in a world where political correctness does appear to have gone mad. All of us have been programmed, from a very early age, to think before we speak and to not stand out – fade to grey, don’t look for the spotlight, don’t stand out from the crowd. Dirk isn’t built that way and couldn’t stop standing out if you paid him to do so. Personally I think the world would be a nicer, probably more tolerant and definitely more entertaining place if we could all take at least a small leaf out of Dirk’s book and occasionally approach life with uncensored honesty without fearing the repercussions.
While we obviously get to know Dirk better with each subsequent instalment of this series, the same can be said for Doc/Dan. Not that he describes himself in details similar to the one he uses for his apprentice. It is more that we get an insight in to the author from the way he reacts to and thinks about Dirk as he describes their misadventures.
Our Dirk is an undemanding muse. He’s not in it for recognition. He just has these genius ideas for stories and sequels to stories and, because he has no filter, he blurts them out, leaving Doc/Dan scrambling to keep up while writing them all down on whatever writing material he can find.
“…sometimes only ten words out of a thousand I say make sense. So if you can make sense of it, more power, dude.”
The Dirkisms, both those shared by Doc/Dan on Facebook and the ones you’ll find in this book are fun. I thought about sharing one or two of them here but that would mean having to choose, pick favourites, and that’s just impossible for me. I’ll say this much though, if you want to read with a huge grin on your face and happy spreading through your body, read them these books and the Dirkisms they contain for yourself; they will, without a doubt, brighten your day.
November 11, 2016
The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk (That Darn Muse, volumes 2 and 3)
Dan Skinner
By the author, 2016
These tiny books are nothing more than delightful petit-fours of clever prose and laugh-out-loud silliness that manage to be innocent and naughty at the same time.
Dirk is an endearingly awkward, sexy teenager, lucky enough to have found a mentor and gay role model in the middle-aged Doc (Dan Skinner). These two men (both young in my eyes) are avatars for two generations of gay men – the gen-Xer and the millennial. They offer us honest and often comic insights into their worldview, but they also provide strangely comforting models for friendship and self-awareness.
As an old man (only 61, but that’s 85 in gay years) in a very longterm relationship, I am envious of their youth and fitness; but Skinner isn’t trying to do this, not at all. He presents himself as a gay man, temporarily unmoored, who first finds himself, and then his goofy, adorable, unfiltered muse. He becomes part of Dirk’s family circle, both protective of Dirk’s dented innocence and disarmed by Dirk’s fearless approach to being a gay youth in modern America.
I was particularly struck by two stories, one told by Doc and one by Dirk, that outline disastrous attempts at sexual hookups – proving hilariously that beauty doesn’t always equate with emotional maturity or sexual proficiency. Somehow in there I found comfort in knowing the idea that being gay is not a competition. The goal is to find our way as best we can.
Dan Skinner is one of those gay men who I think I’d have trouble being friends with, and thus I approach his writing with caution. The fact that his books have always utterly charmed and moved me with their elegant prose and emotional truth is a testimony to his gifts.
Dan Skinner
By the author, 2016
These tiny books are nothing more than delightful petit-fours of clever prose and laugh-out-loud silliness that manage to be innocent and naughty at the same time.
Dirk is an endearingly awkward, sexy teenager, lucky enough to have found a mentor and gay role model in the middle-aged Doc (Dan Skinner). These two men (both young in my eyes) are avatars for two generations of gay men – the gen-Xer and the millennial. They offer us honest and often comic insights into their worldview, but they also provide strangely comforting models for friendship and self-awareness.
As an old man (only 61, but that’s 85 in gay years) in a very longterm relationship, I am envious of their youth and fitness; but Skinner isn’t trying to do this, not at all. He presents himself as a gay man, temporarily unmoored, who first finds himself, and then his goofy, adorable, unfiltered muse. He becomes part of Dirk’s family circle, both protective of Dirk’s dented innocence and disarmed by Dirk’s fearless approach to being a gay youth in modern America.
I was particularly struck by two stories, one told by Doc and one by Dirk, that outline disastrous attempts at sexual hookups – proving hilariously that beauty doesn’t always equate with emotional maturity or sexual proficiency. Somehow in there I found comfort in knowing the idea that being gay is not a competition. The goal is to find our way as best we can.
Dan Skinner is one of those gay men who I think I’d have trouble being friends with, and thus I approach his writing with caution. The fact that his books have always utterly charmed and moved me with their elegant prose and emotional truth is a testimony to his gifts.
October 18, 2016
4.5 star Review for Vols. I-III
This is one of those stories that is just a breath of fresh air. Everything about it is just so feel good, makes you smile and is just an overall joy. If you have followed Dan Skinner at all on social media, you probably know a bit about him and more recently, his connection with the lovable Dirk. There were many instances where I recalled seeing the many Dirkisms Dan has shared with us and it was wonderful to see them again.
If you don’t follow Dan, you should get right on that. He is an amazing photographer and just a genuinely nice person. He’s had some hard times but has managed to find some wonderful friends, especially his young protege, Dirk, who has become his apprentice and has brought a new light to Dan’s life.
Dirk is a wonderful character. He is extremely likable and his attitude and commentary is often hilarious and cute and just plain adorable. This is the story of how they came to know each other. It takes place over a few years, though these are just the first three installments of what I sure hope will lead to many more. Dan is a fabulous writer, and it shines once again through these short snippets. If you are looking for a light-hearted sweet afternoon read, I highly recommend you give these a try. I still have a smile on my face just thinking about them and can’t wait for more!
Book received in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes Reviews.
October 9, 2016
I have just this minute finished reading this episode of The Misadventures of Doc and Dirk and while I usually take at least a few hours to gather my thoughts to write a review, I needed to at least write a few down while I was still riding my #MuseNerd high. Seriously, I can’t stop smiling and that was Dan’s intention when he first set out to write these little episodes. He just wanted to make people smile. It made me create a new word today ~ Permasmile, I expect to have permasmile for hours. If you read these stories, I can guarantee that you will feel like a whole new happier person when you are done, and if you don’t then you should just quit because you are only a step away from… well I just wont say.
In this episode “Doc” takes us a little bit deeper into how Dirk thinks and how Dirks family and friends have developed coping mechanisms to survive daily doses of Dirkisms. Once again I feel like I want to be a part of this family, because they are just about the best people and I’m so happy down to the tips of my toes that Dirk has all of them in his life.
I’m also more happy than I can say that Dan “Doc” Skinner has Dirk in his life to give him inspiration and keep him on his toes.The things these two get up to and that they share with us is such a gift.
I am also going to take a moment to comment on the artwork. It’s something else isn’t it? absolutely striking! The artist is amazingly talented and captures the free spirit and energy of the “model” completely. I adore it.
In this episode “Doc” takes us a little bit deeper into how Dirk thinks and how Dirks family and friends have developed coping mechanisms to survive daily doses of Dirkisms. Once again I feel like I want to be a part of this family, because they are just about the best people and I’m so happy down to the tips of my toes that Dirk has all of them in his life.
I’m also more happy than I can say that Dan “Doc” Skinner has Dirk in his life to give him inspiration and keep him on his toes.The things these two get up to and that they share with us is such a gift.
I am also going to take a moment to comment on the artwork. It’s something else isn’t it? absolutely striking! The artist is amazingly talented and captures the free spirit and energy of the “model” completely. I adore it.
September 19, 2016
Another hilarious recounting of the adventures of Dan (aka Doc) and his wonderful Muse, Dirk.
I can't begin to relate how funny I thought the Thanksgiving dinner with Dirk's mother and grandmother was. I would have loved to have been there - and the fact that Dirk cooked for himself and Dan (b/c they're Vegans/Vegetarians) is simply wonderful.
So is the fact that Dirk produces his "Dirkisms" and then puts them on a T-shirt, in order to share his thoughts/sayings with the general populace. So that the revelation of an "I'm with Daddy" T-shirt when they were going out for dinner, had me doubling over with laughter, and crying with real tears because I realised Dan would be so very embarrassed.... However, the owner of the restaurant was a friend of Dirk's and understood completely; but his parting statement is something I would like to preserve for posterity - just in case it comes true!!!!
Well done, again, Dan for making me laugh and smile at both your antics; and hugs and kisses for Dirk who has a really wonderful brain (if only we can keep up with him!!)
I can't begin to relate how funny I thought the Thanksgiving dinner with Dirk's mother and grandmother was. I would have loved to have been there - and the fact that Dirk cooked for himself and Dan (b/c they're Vegans/Vegetarians) is simply wonderful.
So is the fact that Dirk produces his "Dirkisms" and then puts them on a T-shirt, in order to share his thoughts/sayings with the general populace. So that the revelation of an "I'm with Daddy" T-shirt when they were going out for dinner, had me doubling over with laughter, and crying with real tears because I realised Dan would be so very embarrassed.... However, the owner of the restaurant was a friend of Dirk's and understood completely; but his parting statement is something I would like to preserve for posterity - just in case it comes true!!!!
Well done, again, Dan for making me laugh and smile at both your antics; and hugs and kisses for Dirk who has a really wonderful brain (if only we can keep up with him!!)
September 27, 2016
Dirk is a beautiful genius, and I'm so glad that Dan (Doc) can see his qualities for what they are. They are both creative people by nature. And I feel honored to get a small behind the scenes look into two people who can make me smile every single day. To have this kind of relationship is a precious thing. Both benefit from the other. Both have opened up more due to one another. And the humor that comes from their unique friendship is intertwined with patience, ADHD, acceptance, understanding, love, and trust. Here, you will find that written lovingly by Dan. One of my favorite things is what Dan calls... 'The Dirkism of the Day' and one of my favorite ones happened to be in this episode. I remember when it was first posted on his Facebook page, and I still just about rolled on the floor laughing my butt off when I read it here. Kudos to everyone involved! Much respect for Rebecca, Dirk's mom. I look forward to Volume 3! Hilariously creative and honest. Making moments and smiles. And, almost uncontrollable giggles!
September 13, 2016
It's kind of hard to write a review when I'm still laughing so hard my hands are shaking but I'll give it my best. I actually read this twice. Yes twice. Once to myself and then out loud to my hubby when I kept busting out the snort-laughs so he'd say 'okay, what did Dirk do now?' I think I might put that on a t-shirt. For Dirk. Oh. And I have a new favorite color. Butt skin. Snort. Yep. Oh heck. I'm going back in. This one is just that freaking good.
September 29, 2016
I really quite enjoyed this book but again it's too short. It's one of the few books that actually manages to make me laugh out loud. The only downside (Dan are you listening) is that I felt I "lost" 28% of the book (yes I checked) on the backstory.
October 23, 2016
I love these two. Dan Skinners voice and Dirk's personality go together like coffee and cereal for me. They make me smile, they make my day better and always lift me up.
May 10, 2017
Misadventures II
The things Dirk says and does are hilarious. These little snippets into the lives of these two are great. Cant wait for volume 3
The things Dirk says and does are hilarious. These little snippets into the lives of these two are great. Cant wait for volume 3
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