Hurricane Sandy

Hurricane Sandy happens shortly before the beginning of the novel. It is the significant action that causes the main plot of the first story, "I'm Here", as the hurricane causes a large amount of destruction on the Jersey Shore, including the annihilation of Arnie Urquhart's house. This causes Arnie to set the story in motion by calling Frank to come with him to view the remnants of the house as property flippers have offered to buy it from Arnie.

We Salute You

"We Salute You" is the pamphlet written by a conservative political group in Ohio. Once a week, Frank goes to the airport to distribute these to soldiers returning from overseas as they pass by. Inside the pamphlets is information considered important for soldiers, such as phone numbers and addresses for veterans' aid agencies and mental health hotlines.

Arnie Urquhart's House

The house belong...