Review of The Eye of the Bedbug

[EBERE WRITES COCEPT]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Eye of the Bedbug" by Allan Davis.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In 1975, Rebecca's father leaves, promising to return but never doing so. Her mother meets Leonard, who buys horses for dog food. They move to a farm on Manitoulin Island, hoping for a fresh start, but Rebecca worries about her mother's mental health. Despite Leonard's optimism, Rebecca doubts that the farm will solve their problems. They struggle with Leonard working double shifts and Rebecca caring for her brother Bobby. Uncle Sam's arrival brings disturbing war stories from Vietnam, and Ruth's worsening condition adds to the family's troubles. Bobby's bond with Rebecca deepens as they navigate Uncle Sam's erratic behavior and the Pattersons' supportive presence. As family dynamics worsen, Rebecca grapples with protecting Bobby and herself from Uncle Sam's predatory behavior.
 
The Eye of the Bedbug by Allan Davis is a deeply evocative and haunting exploration of family dynamics, trauma, and resilience set against the backdrop of rural life on Manitoulin Island. Through the eyes of young Rebecca, readers are immersed in a world where the promise of a fresh start clashes with the harsh realities of life, both within and beyond the confines of family. Davis crafts a narrative that is as raw as it is tender, delving into the complexities of relationships strained by unfulfilled promises, mental illness, and the lingering shadows of war. The characters in the novel are vividly drawn, each grappling with their own demons and desires. From Rebecca's determination to protect her brother Bobby to Uncle Sam's haunting presence, every character feels achingly real, their struggles resonating long after the final page is turned.
 
My favorite character in the book is Rebecca. From the beginning of the novel, Rebecca, at such a young age, shoulders many responsibilities within her family. Despite feeling conflicted and fearful, Rebecca ultimately takes a stand against Uncle Sam's inappropriate behavior. Yes, as a young girl, she grapples with the decision to confront him, knowing the potential consequences, but ultimately prioritizes Bobby's safety and well-being above all else.
 
I found nothing to criticize about this engrossing tale. Central to the novel is the theme of trauma, embodied most palpably in the character of Uncle Sam, a Vietnam War veteran whose haunted past casts a long shadow over the lives of those around him. Davis navigates this theme with nuance and sensitivity, exploring the ways in which trauma can manifest itself in unexpected ways and ripple through generations. Through Uncle Sam's troubled interactions with Bobby and Rebecca, Davis lays bare the impact of war on individuals and families. 
 
The book's editing is superb, with clear diction and no errors discovered. I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars because of the character Bobby. Despite Rebecca being his stepsister, he followed her instructions and trusted her with his own blood. Truly, the bond between the two is admirable. I recommend the book to readers who enjoy literary fiction and readers who appreciate books that prompt reflection on themes of family and the impact of past experiences on the present.

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The Eye of the Bedbug
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[Nwachukwu Somto]

The portrayal of family dynamics and trauma against the rural backdrop of Manitoulin Island seems both haunting and authentic. Rebecca's resilience and courage, especially in protecting her brother from Uncle Sam's predatory behavior, make her a compelling character.

[Julius Peters]

Davis expertly delves into the complexities of trauma and its generational impact, painting a vivid picture of characters haunted by their pasts while navigating the tumultuous present.