Review of Country Club Time

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Ika Apo
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Review of Country Club Time

Post by Ika Apo »

[Following is a volunteer review of "Country Club Time" by James Allen.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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Country Club Time by James Allen is a partially autobiographical story about a convicted bank robber and drug dealer/abuser, Jimmy. As a 20-year-old, Jimmy has gotten himself into a lot of trouble regarding drugs, almost getting caught by the police a few times. As time passed, he got deeper into the crime world and robbed a bank with his buddy. Despite their confidence that they'd never get caught, they were charged with drug dealing and robbery. In the tight walls of the prison, through suffering and suicidal thoughts, he found a light within himself. A ray of shine that helped him overcome his struggles and altered his life path. The author displays Jimmy's thoughts and feelings in detail, sometimes through flashbacks. The book reads smoothly, and almost every chapter is accompanied by a suitable verse from the Bible and a summary of the lessons displayed in each chapter. The book is dedicated particularly to youngsters struggling with addiction.

The book was fascinating and valuable to me. I loved the verses and summaries that followed each chapter. The author's writing style was efficient and to the point. His descriptions gave a complete image of Jimmy's reality yet weren't dull and overwhelming. It was a perfect balance. I loved reading about how his attitudes and relationships with people changed. Despite his struggle to manage anger, he put massive effort towards change. I was also satisfied with the ending; it was sufficient, interesting, helpful, and sentimental. The characters were well-developed and vibrant. The cover was also well-chosen and meaningful.

On the other hand, I'd like to make a few notes. Firstly, it would've been helpful if the table of contents included pages for the chapters. Secondly, I came across a few minor errors in the beginning. Lastly, I would've loved to briefly learn about Jimmy's friends' lives. It could've been a nice touch, but I also understand if, in the author's opinion, the information would be unsuitable.

Overall, I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. The errors weren't severe enough to deduct a point, and the other matters mentioned in the previous paragraph were mere suggestions. I think the book is complete and serves its purpose well. The author has done a brave job publishing this work. I recommend it to people who struggle with addictions and want to help themselves. Maybe Jimmy's experiences will open their eyes about what is worth doing and what's not, but keep in mind that the book also displays some sensitive and violent scenes.

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Country Club Time
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