Japan provides the background for this story of a young man who has travelled to the east to find meaning and salvation, but finds only addiction and desperation. Rodriguez is a master at describing how strange and alienating the culture of Japan can be to any Westerner immersed in it. A compelling narrative from beginning to end, the novel recounts the experiences of a young Canadian ex-pat who has turned his back on his family's wealth only to work as an elevator operator in a Tokyo department store. The narrative focuses on his "last trip" up the elevator and what he plans to do when he gets to the top floor. Escape is a richly told story, edgy and full of psychological suspense.

JP Rodriguez grew up in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He studied in Thunder Bay, Vancouver and Toronto, taking more courses than he suspects anyone ever has en-route to a teaching degree. Following his studies, he spent seven years abroad, and those experiences greatly influenced him and his work. He began writing fiction in Japan, while teaching English to students ranging in age from three to eight-eight. After five years living in Tokyo and traveling extensively, he and his wife moved to London, England, for two years. They returned to Thunder Bay, and jp began to rethink a teaching career, deciding to focus on social work. He now works in that field. JP is passionate about social justice and global politics, and these interests inform his writing. He has written and published many short stories, and The Space Between is his first novel. Although writing is what he loves most, he also enjoys painting, making music, photography, cycling and skiing.

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