Review of Strong Heart
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DIGNORA GONZALEZ
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- Latest Review: Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon
Review of Strong Heart
[Following is a volunteer review of "Strong Heart" by Charlie Sheldon.]
A stunning, spiritually moving novel. Strong Heart written by author, fisherman and sailor, Charlie Sheldon, is a fascinating read filled with heritage, adventure and family. Combining the three, the novel questions human origin through what is at the core of the story, human connection and tradition. If any of these concepts appeal to you, then definitely read this book. The story enthralls you to where you can’t put it down, serving as a reminder to find gratitude in culture and the Earth we live on.
It begins when Tom’s estranged granddaughter unexpectedly ends up at his doorstep right before he and his longtime friends, William and his daughter Myra, are about to go on a hiking trip on their usual route through the Olympic National Forest, to visit his grandfather’s grave. Tom’s and Sarah’s new found relationship becomes the center, grounding the narrative. However, the story really takes off when, despite Tom’s objections, William and Myra invite Sarah to tag along on the trip where she suddenly disappears, taking on a journey of her own, of course, bringing us along for the ride. Will the three of them be able to survive the strenuous hike through the deep wilderness to find Sarah? What type of journey will she take? How will it impact her and the rest of the group?
“This is a land of magic, history and legend.” Precisely what this book portrays which the author successfully delivers with his writing style. There was heavy focus on the environment that surrounded these characters. Evoking a charm, almost bewitching. Tying them to the land through history and ancestry. “How many thousands of years had people sat before fires just like this, quiet, staring, lost in their thoughts? How many hundreds of thousands?”
Each character in the story gives a unique perspective about similar issues or life experiences they have. Delving into their family relations, even throughout history, and giving Sarah a strong character arch, gave the story depth. I appreciate stories that are inspired by hard ships people experience, giving insight into the causes they fight for to protect, particularly as a community. What I loved most was how Tom, William, Myra, and Sarah all had the same goal, forming a deep bond because of their cause. But did they succeed and protect their home from those threatening with greed and ambition?
With the addition of a willing ally in Sergei, an evidence-based scientist and his clash with Myra, a Native woman and passionate preservationist, I’m sure many experts studying our origins can find their often heated debates relatable, while the rest of us can be left amazed by their educational dialogue. The discussion scenes between the two absorbed me further into the story, giving it extra intrigue. The proposal of legends and stories to be backed by or aligned with research and evidence leaves the reader with an insatiable curiosity and assumptions of their own.
I found few profanities or insulting language, mostly in the beginning, nothing too strong nor offensive. Of course, that depends on the reader. However, there was mention of sensitive topics such as sexual harassment and rape a handful of times. This was the only main negative point in the book but did give more backstory and depth to specific characters. Adding to their strength for the obstacles they’ve overcome and continue to do so throughout the book. To my knowledge, there were no errors with the writing appearing correctly edited. Since this novel has become one of my favorite reads compelling me with excitement to continue reading the series, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.
It is honestly a must read for everyone from teen to adult. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy finding themselves on adventures through the wilderness, especially anyone wondering about human origins whether through science or spiritual inclinations. Perhaps, this read will spark your imagination and encourage you to conduct your own research.
******
Strong Heart
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
A stunning, spiritually moving novel. Strong Heart written by author, fisherman and sailor, Charlie Sheldon, is a fascinating read filled with heritage, adventure and family. Combining the three, the novel questions human origin through what is at the core of the story, human connection and tradition. If any of these concepts appeal to you, then definitely read this book. The story enthralls you to where you can’t put it down, serving as a reminder to find gratitude in culture and the Earth we live on.
It begins when Tom’s estranged granddaughter unexpectedly ends up at his doorstep right before he and his longtime friends, William and his daughter Myra, are about to go on a hiking trip on their usual route through the Olympic National Forest, to visit his grandfather’s grave. Tom’s and Sarah’s new found relationship becomes the center, grounding the narrative. However, the story really takes off when, despite Tom’s objections, William and Myra invite Sarah to tag along on the trip where she suddenly disappears, taking on a journey of her own, of course, bringing us along for the ride. Will the three of them be able to survive the strenuous hike through the deep wilderness to find Sarah? What type of journey will she take? How will it impact her and the rest of the group?
“This is a land of magic, history and legend.” Precisely what this book portrays which the author successfully delivers with his writing style. There was heavy focus on the environment that surrounded these characters. Evoking a charm, almost bewitching. Tying them to the land through history and ancestry. “How many thousands of years had people sat before fires just like this, quiet, staring, lost in their thoughts? How many hundreds of thousands?”
Each character in the story gives a unique perspective about similar issues or life experiences they have. Delving into their family relations, even throughout history, and giving Sarah a strong character arch, gave the story depth. I appreciate stories that are inspired by hard ships people experience, giving insight into the causes they fight for to protect, particularly as a community. What I loved most was how Tom, William, Myra, and Sarah all had the same goal, forming a deep bond because of their cause. But did they succeed and protect their home from those threatening with greed and ambition?
With the addition of a willing ally in Sergei, an evidence-based scientist and his clash with Myra, a Native woman and passionate preservationist, I’m sure many experts studying our origins can find their often heated debates relatable, while the rest of us can be left amazed by their educational dialogue. The discussion scenes between the two absorbed me further into the story, giving it extra intrigue. The proposal of legends and stories to be backed by or aligned with research and evidence leaves the reader with an insatiable curiosity and assumptions of their own.
I found few profanities or insulting language, mostly in the beginning, nothing too strong nor offensive. Of course, that depends on the reader. However, there was mention of sensitive topics such as sexual harassment and rape a handful of times. This was the only main negative point in the book but did give more backstory and depth to specific characters. Adding to their strength for the obstacles they’ve overcome and continue to do so throughout the book. To my knowledge, there were no errors with the writing appearing correctly edited. Since this novel has become one of my favorite reads compelling me with excitement to continue reading the series, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.
It is honestly a must read for everyone from teen to adult. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy finding themselves on adventures through the wilderness, especially anyone wondering about human origins whether through science or spiritual inclinations. Perhaps, this read will spark your imagination and encourage you to conduct your own research.
******
Strong Heart
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon
