Rachel Reviews: His Eyes: A Novel of Hope from Tragedy by Mark Charles Powers
A book which begins with a family in tragedy but gradually, through faith and healing and the support of others, the way is shown to them
I really enjoyed Mark Powers' novel which is an uplifting tale to guide and reassure those readers who, having experienced a tragedy of their own, may need to have their faith bolstered and re-centred. But if you're not of a religious bent, don't be put off by its references to God as Powers' mentions of faith are gentle and part of the story. This is not a didactic story, preaching at you - this is a tale of people, doing right by others and looking out for those in need, using the strength that they receive from God's word to act as a spur.
The book concerns itself with Michael and his mum and their survival of the shooting of Jacob, Michael's younger brother. It is a tragic accident but the ramifications of Jacob's loss run deep and both Michael and his mum are, quite rightly, shaken by what happens.
The story is told from Michael's viewpoint in the main although diary extracts written by Mum are interspersed throughout and show her struggle more poignantly, as she tries desperately to come to terms with her loss.
Michael is a character of strength who, despite his part in the accident, the fact her's being bullied at school and his constant worrying about his mum, shows himself to be a boy growing into a man, his circumstances requiring him to be mature and the crutch that his mother needs to survive.
God's light and the message that "You're never alone" is the backbone of the book, which provides comfort to Michael as he comes to terms with where his life has taken him. But more than that, it is not the love of God that is overtly pushed onto you in this book; it is how His love is shown through the goodness of heart in everyday folk. This is shown most prominently in the interlude that Michael and his friend, Lucas have with an homeless man called Strike.
This story was a real heart-warmer with good core values accentuated at the centre of it, which in the times that we are currently living in, acts as a modern parable of how humans should treat each other - with compassion and understanding and faith as a salve, not a weapon.
A good read.
Rachel Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery where I was privileged to read it as an ARC:
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Comments (2)
My TBR is never ending, but I might add this to it. Thank you for the fair review!
Excellent review, as always, Rachel. I don't think I'll read the book as I am kinda weary of everything that has a strong religious undercurrent but I am glad for the author that you gave the book 4/5 given how strict but fair you are with your critique.