Full disclosure – this remarkable first novel is unabashedly sentimental, and there will be tears. Theo is an 86-year-old gentleman of European origins who leaves his New York home to spend a year in Golden in SE USA. So, the obvious first question is why? What is his motivation? His actions are to exhibit goodness and kindness, to be curious, to be a conversationalist and especially to be a great listener. And he has a mysterious impulse to purchase portraits and return them as gifts to the subjects, a bestowal. The consequences of Theo’s generous actions create wonderful stories, reminding the reader of the importance of being an encourager in an anxious world, and thus to witness uplifting experiences. Thanks Joyce, for the gift of this book.
