Review of OLIVER’S TRAVELS

Book Review from Book Excellence
Oliver’s Travels by Clifford Garstang is a poignant story about the very nature of reality, who we are as human beings—and whether it’s possible to leave the past behind.

Ollie Tucker is fresh out of college and on a quest to discover life’s deeper meaning. Haunted by an unclear memory from his past, Ollie sets out on a path of self-discovery. In the midst of writing a novel, where he portrays himself as a more charming, adventurous version of himself, Ollie convinces his wife to travel the world in search of his presumed-dead Uncle and confront the person he is most afraid of, so that he can finally move on with his life and find peace.

Garstang’s writing is sharp, witty and skilfully captures the intricacies of relationships, as he depicts Ollie’s experience in his marriage, with his family and the ever-elusive Uncle Scotty. Effortlessly, the stage is set and the reader becomes emotionally invested in an entire ensemble of familiar characters. What truly makes this book a standout work of fiction is Ollie. Garstang portrays Ollie as a multifaceted character who has a deeply introspective and philosophical approach to life, and who like most of us, is trying to figure out who he is and who he wants to become.

Overall, Oliver’s Travels is a compelling page-turner that grips readers with its stunning insight into relationships and the impact they have on one’s life. Highly recommended! – Review by Book Excellence (bookexcellence.com)

About the author

I am the author of three novels--THE LAST BIRD OF PARADISE, OLIVER'S TRAVELS, and THE SHAMAN OF TURTLE VALLEY--and three story collections--IN AN UNCHARTED COUNTRY, HOUSE OF THE ANCIENTS AND OTHER STORIES, and WHAT THE ZHANG BOYS KNOW, winner of the Library of Virginia Literary Award for Fiction. I am also the co-founder and former editor of Prime Number Magazine and the editor of the award-winning anthology series EVERYWHERE STORIES: SHORT FICTION FROM A SMALL PLANET.

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