Review of Finding Ted James

Post by **Phoebe Felix** » 14 Feb 2023, 12:02

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Finding Ted James" by Steven Wilcox.]

4 out of 5 stars

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In Finding Ted James by Steven Wilcox, Winston Thibodeau James came from a dysfunctional home. With a drunkard father and a mother who took her clothes off for a living, he became an object of ridicule and bullying. When his path crossed with two known unruly boys—Freddy Wheller and Jimmy Dickenson—the bullying stopped, but his character's credibility took a hit. Things were not getting any better at home but escalated to the point where Ted was battling the challenges and frustrations of his life alone. Desperate to escape his situation, a solution came in the form of possible trouble. Despite knowing the path he was about to tread was dangerous, Ted continued, and his no-good friends, Freddy and Jimmy, were egging him on. However, fate had other plans for Ted, which came in the form of a barking dog and an unconscious man.

The story was narrated in simple language that was easy to follow. The plot was simple and devoid of complicated details. The story's beginning came with much anticipation about the possible outcome of Ted James' life. However, the excitement brought on by this anticipation lasted only for a short time, as the story became an unending cycle of drawn-out plot filled with childish conflicts that quickly became a bore. By the end of the book, it became even more apparent that many of the pages were unnecessary; the story could have been effectively told with fewer words. Unfortunately, this issue also took away from the romantic aspect of the story, which was kindergarten at best. Though the book was not about romance, the romantic relationship felt forced and unreal.

The characters made it a worthwhile read, starting with the central character, Ted James. Despite his background, Ted's character would stand out for the difference his life made. As he came in contact with the character of Jack Kelley, the camaraderie that grew between them was fun and hilarious. Jack's old friend, Ruthie, brought fun into the story with her cupid interventions.

Finding Ted James symbolizes personality reinventions and life changes. One of the strongest messages this book communicates to readers is that it's never too late to become better in life. Also, the power to write the ending of our story is in our hands. This is seen in the lives of many characters in this book, including Jimmy and Freddy. Ted's story reinstates hope in humanity and the propensity of humans to be kind and good.

The story is about second chances and fate. Ted's story is inspiring and encouraging and will give hope to those in frustrating situations like Ted's. All that is needed to make a difference and save a life from destruction is one person with the will to believe.

I found a few errors while reading this book. Overall, the book was a good read, and the story's highlight was the message of hope. I'd recommend this book to readers from dysfunctional families and those who would need some hope in their lives. However, because of the unnecessarily drawn-out plot, I'd rate Finding Ted James four out of five stars.

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Finding Ted James
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