The Noticer
Sometimes, All A Person Needs Is A Little Perspective
By Andy Andrews
Thomas Nelson, Publisher
Hardback, 176 pages.
I read and reviewed this book as a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program: http://brb.thomasnelson.com/
This is a story about Jones, “not Mr. Jones, just Jones.” Where is he from? No one knows. How old is he? It’s anyone’s guess. Who is he? He’s a noticer. He sees things other people miss. Always carrying a mysterious suitcase, he steps into the lives of various people in Orange Beach, Alabama. He becomes a new best friend, helping them look at their question or crisis from a different perspective.
The Noticer is an easy read, communicating basic principles and valuable life lessons. Author Andrews appears comfortable with dialogue, so much of the story is told in this way. However, the continual shift in point of view between first and third person is disorienting.
While the book was entertaining and positive, there were no new concepts. I didn’t laugh, I didn’t cry. I also found some of the illustrations were not original but rather a retelling of urban legends and uplifting stories like those found in so many email forwards.
However, we do need to notice and appreciate those who have made a difference in our lives. We need to remind each other of life-lessons we may have forgotten. The Noticer helps you do that. The narrative format makes it easier to digest these lessons for those who enjoy a story rather than a self-help book. It would make a good gift for a high school graduate.
I read and reviewed this book as a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program: http://brb.thomasnelson.com/
This is a story about Jones, “not Mr. Jones, just Jones.” Where is he from? No one knows. How old is he? It’s anyone’s guess. Who is he? He’s a noticer. He sees things other people miss. Always carrying a mysterious suitcase, he steps into the lives of various people in Orange Beach, Alabama. He becomes a new best friend, helping them look at their question or crisis from a different perspective.
The Noticer is an easy read, communicating basic principles and valuable life lessons. Author Andrews appears comfortable with dialogue, so much of the story is told in this way. However, the continual shift in point of view between first and third person is disorienting.
While the book was entertaining and positive, there were no new concepts. I didn’t laugh, I didn’t cry. I also found some of the illustrations were not original but rather a retelling of urban legends and uplifting stories like those found in so many email forwards.
However, we do need to notice and appreciate those who have made a difference in our lives. We need to remind each other of life-lessons we may have forgotten. The Noticer helps you do that. The narrative format makes it easier to digest these lessons for those who enjoy a story rather than a self-help book. It would make a good gift for a high school graduate.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Excellent review, Joyce. That's exactly what I felt about it.
ReplyDeleteGreat Review, Joyce. I haven't read this book yet but am tempted now - just to see if I agree with you! :)
ReplyDelete