Official Review: The Lighthouse Keeper by David Richards
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Official Review: The Lighthouse Keeper by David Richards
Do you have moments in your past that you've dwelled on for so long they've become a daily part of your life? Are there dreams that you've decided not to pursue because you're afraid? Or has someone told you they aren't realistic? Then you have a lot in common with our protagonist, Sam.
Sam's father is a chicken farmer, and Sam figures he is expected to take over the family business when he's old enough. That's not what he wants, though. He finally gets up the courage to tell his father that he wants something different for his life, and Sam leaves to become an apprentice to a lighthouse keeper named Armand. Armand, and Black Eagle Lighthouse, aren't quite what they seem; Sam might end up learning a bit more than he bargained for.
The Lighthouse Keeper by David Richards is a unique story that's difficult to classify. It's almost an allegory or a fictional self-help book. This actually makes sense when you realize the author is "a firewalker, yoga teacher, life strategist, and corporate executive." There are life lessons to be learned; and, most importantly, they're taught in a fun way. However, if you go into the book expecting a science fiction adventure, you'll be disappointed.
What are these lessons you ask? The topics covered in the novel include letting go of the past and being present in each moment. At one point, meditation techniques are even discussed. So many of us need to hear what the author has to say. It's a bonus that these weightier topics are presented in a fun way. The allegorical part of the story teaches these lessons, but the author brings them home through the use of Sam's journaling, to which we as the reader are privileged.
The story is told from the third person perspective, and the author uses his words well. The descriptions are vivid and help immerse the reader into the world of the book. For example, "The grey-purple sky was a fleet of quick moving, bloated storm clouds that grumbled and belched in unchecked anger."
The characters aren't plentiful, making for easier understanding and comprehension. The ones used are relatable and integral to the plot. Many of us feel like Sam, as he's restless in his life. Joseph - who I'll leave you to discover - let's his fears hold him back. I don't know about you, but fear does control me from time to time.
The one drawback was the editing. There were more than ten errors in this book of less than 200 pages. These were mostly simple typographical mistakes that weren't overly distracting. However, the book could still use another round of editing.
Due solely to the errors, I rate The Lighthouse Keeper 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to anyone that enjoys fiction with a message. If your past defines you or you've let yourself believe you can't accomplish your dreams, this is a must read.
******
The Lighthouse Keeper
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—Neil Gaiman
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You've got it exactly right. It's well-imagined and well-written. Worth reading for sure. Thanks!Everydayadventure15 wrote: ↑23 Mar 2020, 09:48 I love allegorical stories. I feel like you can learn so much more and have a bigger takeaway from the author’s message. This book sounds like a nice shorter story with some important messages and an imaginative setting. Thanks for your wonderful review!
—Neil Gaiman
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It's hard not to let fear control you. The author gives you an interesting perspective on that. It will make you think. Thanks!
—Neil Gaiman
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This story sounds really interesting with a lot of messages...
Lighthouse keeper soulds well written too.
Nice review
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Despite being hard to classify, it's worth a read. Great points. Thanks.
—Neil Gaiman
- kandscreeley
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I wouldn't really classify this as science fiction. I mean there's kind of a fantasy element but not really. Allegory would be much more accurate. Thanks!AvidBibliophile wrote: ↑23 Mar 2020, 11:56 With a choice between being a lighthouse keeper’s apprentice and a generational chicken farmer, I think Sam chose well! I was curious about the potential sci-fi/fantasy aspect of it, since that part didn’t present itself in the book’s description, so thanks for addressing that component of the tale. Great review!
—Neil Gaiman
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It's a keeper. I definitely recommend it. Thanks.Dannyphery wrote: ↑23 Mar 2020, 13:57 Wow...
This story sounds really interesting with a lot of messages...
Lighthouse keeper soulds well written too.
Nice review
—Neil Gaiman
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His reaction isn't quite what you might think. Of course, neither is his dad's. You'll have to read it to find out. Thanks!Cynthia_Oluchi wrote: ↑23 Mar 2020, 21:51 Sam must have felt like a bird that escaped the fowler's snare when he was able to stand up to his father. I think he made the right choice anyway. This book must be a keeper!
—Neil Gaiman