Making A Difference
The Way Back by Bill Whiting is a delightful contemporary bittersweet tale about friendship, life and true treasure.
The focus of the novel is on two characters in their seventies, an ugly dog and an independent cat. They are a wonderful set of individuals that complement each other. They all moved into my heart.
Written in the first person from a male point of view, I immediately felt empathy for his plight and completely at home with the open, frank, engaging style. With a major theme of loneliness and a feeling of being past his prime, the reader could be forgiven for thinking this may be a depressing read – but far from it. It was full of humor, insights into character and snatches of wisdom gained over a lifetime. Hopefulness rises in the form of an ugly, battle scarred mutt in need of a helping hand. “Hope had bought me to this place, and I was staring into the gnarled face of hopelessness.”
Animals focus on others. We would be wise to learn from them. Dogs want and give unconditional love. “No better gloom buster than Butch’s waggly tail.” Dogs see beyond themselves. Cats are more independent but both bring joy and a new focus. “Happy people never count the hours.”
True friendship is priceless. “A good friend is a true and priceless blessing.” A friend is a true friend when all they want is to sit and be with you, they are not with you for their gain. The novel has a beautiful friendship of two people both in their twilight years. They support each other, picking the other up when they are down.
An elderly Chinese lady brings much wisdom into life. “When the wind blows, don’t build a wall – build a windmill.” When trouble comes, and it will, we can always choose how we respond.
We must live in the present. “The past has gone and we don’t get two goes. But we can change the future.” Too many of us miss the moment because we focus on our past. Be fully present in the present.
The Way Back is beautifully written. It is a unique read and one that I will treasure. I love Bill Whiting’s style of writing and I adored his previous novel, Rosie.
Give yourself a real treat – relax and unwind with The Way Back today, and reorganize your priorities.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own
JULIA WILSON