Moving On

Robert Meacham tells a story of a family forced to move whenever the father, a surly character, loses his job only to find another elsewhere. There is a chronological, linear time frame to the story, but it also deals with the efforts taken by the main character to adapt to each situation.

Written in the first person, present tense, the reader actually follows along with the events taking place from the beginning with an oppressive father which is echoed in the oppressive winter to warmer months where freedom to explore necessitates moving the father figure back into more of a background. It is here we find Robert coming into his own (we find out his name when he introduces himself to Dan, a cowboy who works at the ranch Robert's family is renting) as he gets to know the animals and makes friends with a stray dog that attaches itself to him. There is a more carefree feel to this portion of Robert's life, as if his verbally abusive father doesn't really exist.

However, this little bit of reprieve is shattered when Robert has to say goodbye to his new pet as the family packs up and moves after dad's job is lost once again.

There is a sense of timidity early in the story which seems to morph into a revelation of indomitable childhood spirit as the tale grows. And that which would make another feel uncomfortable seems to be accepted with perfect aplomb by Robert as he realizes that his world, by itself, with him alone it in, is big and worth spending time learning about.

Kudos to the author for putting forth this succinct slice.

As I read this story, I was totally taken in with how this author was able to accurately describe what his main character, a boy felt about his family and especially his father as he lost jobs causing his family to have to move periodically. Moving is hard, but when you do it too often you can never really settle without the fear of loosing what you have gotten attached too. New home, new schools and new best friends that can't be replaced. This author had me smiling and feeling the sorrow as the boy went through some heartfelt adventures until the very end when he ended up having to say goodbye to Duke, his best friend.

I truly enjoyed this story, it was well thought out and well written. It raised memories of my own childhood in a different ways. Good job.

Vickie (Tory Lynn) author of "My Charming Protector"