The Father's Son
ISBN 9781987970128
ASIN B07W94V8XM
I must admit this novel took me by surprise. I loved the cover and was intrigued by the book. A lot of authors I know and respect kept mentioning it. And yet once I had it, it took me a while to get started. I was a little concerned because I had heard so many good things about the book, I was worried it would not like up to expectations. I was very pleasantly surprised. It is an excellent read, and a wonderful example of Catholic fiction and literature. In some ways it reminds me of the novels by J.F. Powers. It is well written, draws the reader into the lives of the characters and keeps them hooked.
This story will be what I classify as contemporary fiction, or realistic fiction. It is set in our world, in our time, and with our issues and struggles. The story revolves around a Bostonian named David Kelly. From a worldly point of view he has it all. A great job, the corner office, more money than he can spend. And the money and ability to date whoever catches his eye or fancy. But his life is not all it appears to be. After a chance encounter with a man that leads to the basketball court his life starts unfolding. And the walls he has built around his heart and life are not a solid and protective as he had thought.
The story probes the mind, heart and motives of David. As David goes on a journey of self discovery. That discovery is through a mix of being impacted by good men, psychology and a grounding in the Catholic faith that he thought he had left behind. Many of the great scenes in this volume take place in a bar, as David, his new friend and the patrons of the bar discuss big issues and the meaning of life, the universe and everything. David must confront not only himself, but also misunderstandings about events in his own past.
Not only is it a great story it is a catechism and philosophy lesson wrapped in and around the events of the story. It is one of those reads that stays with you. I have already recommended it to a few specific friends. And think it is a book anyone would enjoy reading and benefit from. Though it is written as adult fiction it would also be excellent for teens and young adults. To show them some things so they do not need to learn the lessons the hard way.
This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it. Father Tom is an amazing character and I look forward to the next book featuring him, Gus Busbi. I also know I will read whatever else Jim publishes.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2020 Catholic Reading Plan!
Books by Jim Sano:
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