Theo of Golden by Allen Levi ★★★★★ and ❤

[John]

Although Allen Levi has published a memoir previous to this book, this is his debut novel. It is the story of a mysterious, elderly Portuguese man named Theo who arrives in the fictional town of Golden, Georgia. Shortly after his arrival, he enters a local coffee shop and is drawn to 92 pencil portraits hanging on the wall, citizens from the town. Theo then embarks on a mission to purchase each of the portraits and gift them to each subject. All he requires is an opportunity to sit down for one hour to hear the subject's story.

The plot appears relatively simplistic, but the stories each subject tells reveal much about each individual and is rewarding for both parties. Theo's gift impacts each individuals since he or she believe that they are truly seen and understood. Each person's life are transformed by Theo's kindness. Although the author does not consider his book to be a Christian book, there are spiritual allusions to the great commandment, kindness, generosity, and human connection.''

I found the book a bit too sentimental; but it reads quickly and well. It is not as well written as the similarly themed A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles, but it is a good read. I would recommend this book highly; however, with a warning, have a box of tissues available for happy tears.

[Amy]

This is my bookclub book that I picked and couldn't make the meeting. Fortunately, we are doing another one with the few people that missed the first. So excited to read this...