Theo of Golden

“Theo of Golden” is a beautifully written novel that I highly recommend. In the summer months, I often splurge and read something other than non-fiction. I chose to spend my time with this book because it came highly recommended to me. (Thanks, Cheryl!)

Theo is a man in his late 80s who finds himself in Golden, Georgia for one year. The book is a story about how Theo chooses the kind of life he wants to live. As the story unfolds, much of which takes place on a park bench in the middle of town, we learn of his generosity, creativity, kindness, and great attention to detail. He is genuinely curious and listens intently to the life of each person he meets at that bench. It’s a story of love, even when life is messy, tragic, and hard.

I think we can all relate to one or more of the characters in this story. Theo is inspiring in his zest for life and his desire to make a positive difference in the town of Golden.

I chose to listen to this book, and I’m very glad I did. (I know some of you think this is cheating, but I “read” books too.)  The narrator was excellent at giving each character a distinct voice. I especially loved his take on Theo.

Be warned: I borrowed it from the library and originally had 123 or so people ahead of me waiting to download the audio, even though the library had numerous copies. There’s a line of folks waiting for mine, so I had to finish it before it disappeared from my phone.

If you’re looking for a summer read that will stay with you long after the last page, grab a copy (or a listen) of “Theo of Golden.” Better yet, find your own park bench and let his story remind you what a life well lived can look like.

Blessings and love,
Health Coach Carol

Theo’s love was more than a feeling. It was “Love… maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit.”—C. S. Lewis