Timekeeper

by John Atkinson

Within the first few pages Timekeeper had weaved its essence around my heart and refused to let me go. This is a magnificent tale of a young boy who can't read, or at least he hasn't found the means to do so up to this point in his life. Misunderstood by his teachers and elders, and physically beaten into the ground by his father, Johnnyboy runs away from home at the age of fourteen and sets off into the unknown to find himself. What he couldn't find in his own father, the universe provides for him in a multitude of miraculous ways. In spite of all his suffering and adversities, Johnnyboy's spirit remains intact... better yet, like a boxer taking a relentless barrage of punches, he spits his beating into the ringside pail and comes out dancing like never before into the next rounds/chapters of this magnificent tale of redemption. Readers, Booksellers, Journalists, Reviewers, Critics, Movie Makers... Better get ready 'cause the Timekeeper is coming to town! -USA Today John Atkinson is the author of several novels including the mystery thriller Dark Shadows Red Bayou, and the novella Mercy Me. Timekeeper was nominated for the 2009 Library of Virgina award in fiction. Be sure to read the moving Timekeeper sequel, Timekeeper II.

194 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Malcolm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a unique coming of age novel about a 14-year-old boy who leaves an abusive home. When he meets a man named Chief, who names him Timekeeper and tells him he must climb the sacred mountain for a vision about who he is, the book becomes a pure rush toward's self discovery and transformation. A wonderful read.

[Cheryl Alsippi · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Atkinson’s Timekeeper is a great read! Johnnyboy, an illiterate and misunderstood 14-year-old, leaves home to escape the wrath of his abusive father. Spiritually drawn to the West through his mother’s Cherokee bloodline, he meets up with Chief who teaches him through vision quests how to find his true path. He travels from state to state accompanied by Check, a wild dog, and learns about unconditional love and their connection through the universe. From this day forward, when the Autumn winds brush my skin, carrying with them the whispering spirits, I will be reminded of Johnnyboy.

[Ann Sale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating new author with a sequel already written. This book should appeal to everyone - it's real and beautifully written and I defy you to find a more fascinating struggle. John Atkinson teaches us we can overcome anything. He also reminds we our interest in and influence on others can be life saving. Don't miss this one!