Review of Dancing with Panthers

[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Dancing with Panthers" by Patrick C. Notchtree.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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In Dancing with Panthers by Patrick C. Notchtree, Mark Martin, the main character, is an unhappy 14-year-old boy. After his family’s divorce, he is taken to a new city to start a new life, but he hates it. His relationship with his mother and older sister is strained. He used to have a close bond with Tony, but now, the two are separated. He misses the times when he and Tony did homework together, played together, and explored each other in a physically intimate way. Mark’s life is isolated and empty. One day, a man, who has been following the boy for some time, approaches him and offers five pounds. The money is far more than the amount he can earn from a Saturday job, but the encounter is undoubtedly shady, and Mark is getting into situations he does not fully understand due to his adolescence. Mark still has to go to school, but he experiences adulthood as he explores his sexual identity and earns money to elevate his and his mother’s living standards.

Mark is a relatable character. Anyone who has faced significant life changes, loneliness, and newfound responsibilities as an adult can easily empathise with his struggles and feelings. Everyone can relate to the desire for connection and financial security. Moreover, sexuality is a sensitive, confusing topic. There is nothing black and white about this matter, so Mark's journey is great for readers to engage with the matter safely and reassure themselves that they are not alone.

While Mark's character arc is great, the story contains explicit situations that could make some readers uncomfortable. The author also notes that the book has a couple of instances where racially stereotypical terms are used because the story is set in the early 1960s. However, they do not affect my rating.

To sum up, Dancing with Panthers appeals to readers who are interested in coming-of-age stories and homosexual relationships between males. The only drawback of this book is the editing. I found many typos and grammatical mistakes while reading, so the editing needs improvement. Therefore, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

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Dancing with Panthers
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[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

"Dancing with Panthers" is a fascinating work that explores themes of resilience, identity and the challenges of human relationships. The story is full of vivid imagery and emotional depth, drawing readers into a world where the metaphor of dancing with dogs symbolizes the delicate balance of danger and beauty in life.

The characters are well developed, each bringing their own struggles and triumphs to the forefront. The author deftly weaves their stories together, creating a tapestry of interlocking lives that reflects the breadth of human experience. The dialogue is lively and honest, incorporating all the facts of the story.

A notable feature of the book is its examination of personal growth. The hero’s journey is connected and inspiring, as they navigate challenges and face their fears. The writing is lyrical, with a poetic quality that enhances the emotional resonance of the story.

Overall, "Dancing with Panthers" is an inspiring read that encourages reflection on the quality of courage and the beauty that can be found in accepting life's uncertainties. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and connects us to our own experiences and to each other. Whether you are drawn to characters or metaphors, this book is sure to make a lasting impression.

I wouldn't say that the writing is "lyrical" because it doesn't have heavy purple poetic prose, which is nice.