Rejection Note for Paradise Regained

Loved that first book—it’s got no equal— 
but, Johnny, we don’t love your sequel.
If you would only take a chance
on self-help or a gay romance,
we’d let you keep your last advance.
Phony conspiracies would do
if you could find a hook or two— 
like someone famous who won’t sue.
Marketing knows you’ll see the light,
and thinks Da Vinci is just right. 

—A.M. Juster
May 2006