Kaleidoscope: Stories of a Free Spirit covers several wars, two assassinations, four coups and assignments in the Philippines, Japan, Germany, Italy, Liberia, Nigeria and Russia, among other situations and geographical locations both domestic and abroad. The stories are filled with humor and show James Malony's ability to survive and succeed against overwhelming odds.

The author, James Malony, is a graduate of West Point Class of 1945 and the latest member of a line of graduates starting in 1854. He celebrated his 90th birthday this September. His father, Harry Malony, graduated in the West Point class of 1912.

Bobby Finan, Senior Vice President at Merrill Lynch, wrote:
"Jim Malony has the knack of story telling. His true short stories are an easy read and contain a surfeit of smiles over a compendium of geography.