A Good American by Alex GeorgeMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
This story began in a beautiful way, with a young couple seeking a new life in the United States in the early 1900's. They came by way of Germany to New Orleans and made their way on up the river to Missouri, settling in the fictional town of Beatrice. Here they ran a business, raised their children, faced World War I and all the day to day occurrences that happen to all of us.
Frederick was determined to be "a good American" in every way. He had won his love through music and wanted his children to also learn to love music and to perform with their voices.
For the first two-thirds or so of the book, the story was good, believable and enjoyable. Then, it appeared that the author decided to take a turn at writing by way of say, Garrison Keillor. He developed a thread where almost all the boys in town had a one time fling with the music teacher, at her request. He then contrived to make the minister of the Christian church believe that he saw the 2nd coming of Christ due to seeing one of the boys on the river with his hands spread out as he stood on a pier, but with no other changes happening in the town or to anyone else. Most Christians realize that the 2nd coming will certainly cause a multitude of events to happen rather quickly.
These last threads seem to denigrate the book for me. What had been a good family saga with their struggles through life and history became a comical farce. Disappointing.
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It appears that the author ran out of steam at one point in this book and then continued the writing anyway, powered by stale air! I hate starting something with excitement, too, only to have it quickly deflate!
ReplyDeleteLinda, you're such a talented writer. Do you also post these reviews on Amazon.com? You would be very inspiring to millions of readers if you would. I wish I could relax long enough to sit down and read as many books as you do. Love you, Miz Di
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