The readers can download Boy's Life Audiobook for free via Audible Free Trial.
Summary
Don't miss the thrilling novel from #1 New York Times bestselling award-winning author Robert McCammon, in a book that Publishers Weekly calls "both a mystery that will satisfy the most finicky aficionado and a boisterous travelogue."
This novel from 1991 may not be a staple in university literature classes, but it offers an entertaining and heartfelt story that leaves a lasting impression. It avoids the pitfalls of sappy sentimentality, contrived dialogue, and melodrama. Sometimes, it's exactly the kind of charming tale that you want and need to read.
The protagonist and narrator, Cory Mackenson, takes us back to the summer of 1964 in the small town of Zephyr, Alabama. The town has a familiar and down-to-earth feel, much like Maycomb from "To Kill A Mockingbird" or Mayberry from "The Andy Griffith Show."
The story kicks off when Cory and his father, Tom, almost collide with a car that rolls into Saxon's Lake. Tom dives in to save the driver, only to discover that they are handcuffed to the steering wheel and already dead. The local authorities can't find the car or the body, leaving behind a baffling mystery of a murder.
Tom is deeply affected by the mystery and the dead body, haunted by nightmares that leave him with a constant sense of impending doom. He spirals into depression, even coming close to contemplating suicide.
This novel defies easy categorization, blending elements of literary fiction, suspenseful mystery, and coming-of-age narratives. Its themes touch on family, multiple deaths of loved ones, firearms, race relations in the 1960s South, various forms of hatred, and bullying. The author, McCammon, brings his characters to life with authenticity, grace, and charm. You can practically hear their Southern drawl as you read their dialogue. One particular villain stands out as wicked and memorable, alongside a few redneck troublemakers.
The story captivates readers with its diverse cast, including an elderly African American storyteller known as "The Lady," who possesses a touch of magic reminiscent of voodoo and moral wisdom. There are also loyal friends, moonshine, bullies, a quirky grandpa, a hidden brothel deep in the woods, baseball, an intriguing Dutch veterinarian who greets youngsters with playful nicknames, and an eye-opening encounter during a church service involving a voluptuous blonde bathing in a local stream.
Overall, this book is an absolute delight that keeps readers thoroughly engaged.
I absolutely loved Speaks the Nightbird by Robert McCammon, and I also devoured Swan Song by McCammon. Swan Song and Boy's Life both received rave reviews, but honestly, they were just okay for me. Boy's Life is a pleasant read that did have some slow parts, focusing more on the coming-of-age experiences in a small community rather than the actual mystery. The murder mystery is just one element of the overall story of a young boy's life. Personally, I was hoping for more of a mysterious vibe and less of the nostalgic reflections. That being said, I would give it a B-.
This was not only a wonderful story, but the narrator brought it to life beautifully. It was perhaps a bit longer than it needed to be but I found myself enjoying it so much I didn't want it to end anyway. It really is a modern day classic!
A great story with true artistry in pairing words and spinning a tale. The perfect choice of a narrator. Hated to have the book end. Finding the next enjoyable book feels like it will be a difficult follow up to this one. Highly recommend.
Loading...
7 comments
Or use one of these social networks