Review: Uplifting and Engaging Contemporary Fiction with a Positive Message
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 7, 2014
“The Tales of Tim Hurtletuta” is a contemporary fiction novel that explores one man’s awakening to being present in the moment and its potential to wake him up and change his life.As the novel opens, Tim is asleep—his story begins in between his alarm clock blaring, and waking up is a chore for him. He’s remembering—but initially trying not to—what turns out to be a turning point in his childhood, when a bully named Guy Aimoore torments him. Tim eventually comes to realize that period is when he became to shut himself off and stop exploring all the things in life that used to excite him, and suddenly he finds himself making spontaneous decisions that are more true to himself—such as quitting his soul-crushing job and asking out the pretty cashier at the coffee shop. As Tim continues to reflect on his own life, he moves forward to finding peace and happiness in the moment and transforming himself.I liked this book on two levels—Tim himself is a likeable character and you enjoy learning about him and seeing him break out of his self-imposed shell, but you also can find wisdom for yourself through his journey. Tim goes from being literally asleep, buzzed awake daily by his alarm clock, to someone who wakes up to the light (the present moment) and embraces it. It’s an interesting narrative structure that complements the plotline nicely. His relationship with Levah adds a bit of romance to the story, and I liked how they decided to embark on the journey together—my favorite parts actually came at the end, when Tim was reflecting on things like ego, fear, and judgment that used to hold him back. His reconnection with his past, including his father and childhood best friend, is also satisfying.I would recommend “The Tales of Tim Hurtletuta” to readers who like inspirational fiction that is focused on character development rather than a linear plot; it’s got a good message but is also entertaining.