by: Allen Levi
Goodreads description:
Questions linger about Theo, a pleasant but mysterious stranger, after his arrival in the southern city of Golden.
Who is he, and why is he here?
He arrives early one spring and by chance – or is it? – he visits a coffee shop where 92 framed pencil portraits are on display. Inspired, Theo sets out on a mission of purchasing all the portraits one at a time and quietly bestowing them on their ‘rightful owners.’
Stories are told; friendships are born; and lives are changed.
Theo of Golden is a beautifully crafted story about the power of creative generosity, the importance of wonder to a purposeful life, and the far-reaching possibilities of anonymous kindness.
Helen says: 🤓🤓🤓🤓
Three different people have told me that this is the best book they have ever read. I am not sure I agree with that sentiment, but I am still not quite finished. I have about 30 pages left and I can’t wait to see how it all ties together. I love a novel that weaves a few different story lines and they come to fruition in the end, and apparently Theo of Golden is just that kind of book. Upon researching the author, I was delightfully surprised to learn that he is from Columbus, GA, which is the hometown of my lifelong friend Eliza. I pictured downtown Columbus while reading, although I think the setting is probably a fictional Auburn, AL or Oxford, MS (university town). My friend, Lillian, referenced this novel as an allegory and I think that is an apt description of this feel good story. Give it a read.
Holly says: 🤓🤓🤓🤓
I really liked this book. It is just a sweet and charming story very well-written. I really did not know where this story was going to go, and it was delightful, with a big shocker and a few minor shocks along the way. The last 100 pages are really fabulous, so if you think the story is a little too sweet and mild along the way, just keep reading. Lawyers are often wonderful authors, I am always amazed at how well many of them can weave a highly entertaining and original tale, and Allen Levi is no exception. Read this one – it will bring you some joy. It was a little reminiscent of A Short History of a Small Place by T.R. Pearson, which I read and loved in the mid-80’s.
Helen and Holly Hit the Books 