From Cliffs Notes to publishing houses. Wall Street to Writers Block. Fairfield to fame.
Jim Rees, a 1989 Fairfield University graduate, says he coasted through high school on Cliffs Notes, found himself success in the business world, and now is the author of the new thriller novel, “Silent Assassins.”
This Fairfield graduate has been on a road of success ever since he graduated and doesn’t appear to be stopping any time soon.
Many of his Fairfield experiences influenced his writing. “The book’s themes send a message that is very pro-educational and anti-drug,” said Rees, “In addition, the Jesuit ideal of service to others is the ultimate lesson the protagonist learns during his journey.”
This suspense novel involves an FBI agent haunted by his past, shantytown murders, and the Titan, a mysterious drug lord. But the “silent assassins” he titles the book after aren’t the malicious characters that commit crimes, but those who are unwilling to get involved and give back to their community.
Rees is certainly no “silent assassin.” He’s donating the proceeds of the book to the Westchester Community Opportunity Program, a charity foundation close to his heart.
“Silent Assassins” took Rees five years to write. It began as a way to relax and unwind at end of the day. English professor Jacqueline Rinaldi, encouraged him to keep writing while he was at Fairfield. Friends and family pushed him on and in 1994 he started piecing together the parts and writing in earnest.
Since the book captivates the attention of the reader until the last page, leaving the reader wanting more, Rees has been asked to write a sequel. But as a father of one with another on the way, it may take awhile.
“When I was a Fairfield student, I always enjoyed hearing the stories of graduates because there was a connection,” said Rees.
Rees transferred to Fairfield University in January 1987 as a finance major. As a Fairfield student he enjoyed the setting and the people and found the environment very conducive to learning. Looking back on his experience he is grateful for the strong foundation he got in sociology, religion and English through the core requirements.
He recommends that students make the most out of their four years of college by taking as many classes as possible and getting involved with extracurricular activities.
“One thing I would say to all the students at Fairfield is to appreciate the education they’re getting for the world at large,” said Rees, “It gives you grounding and teaches you to give back.”
Rees grew up playing basketball near his hometown of Larchmont, New York. He was exposed to underprivileged environments and saw many people turn to drugs. The prevailing message in the book is to overcome.
“Personally, I think it’s wonderful that a student who’s graduated from Fairfield has found the creative energy to write a novel of this type,” said Dr. Debnam Chappell, dean of freshman.
“I enjoy reading a lot and I think it would be great to read something written by a former Fairfield University student and then get the chance to meet him,” said Michele Fields, ’04.
“Sometimes when I’m so busy with school work I forget to look ahead and think about what I’m going to do with my future,” said Lauren Blanchette, ’04, “By having successful former students come and speak it gives me a chance to stop, listen and learn and think about my own future.”
Rees will read from this debut novel on Thursday, April 11 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. The reading is hosted by Friends of the Library at Fairfield University. Rees will answer questions, discuss why he believes in community service and explain how he got published.
The reading is free and open to the public, but reservations are needed. To attend, or for more information, contact Keith Stetson at 203-254-4044, ext. 2184.
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