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Taking Stock
Just as Sheldon Mason is about to end it all, he meets his upstairs neighbour, a drug dealer named Sam. Sam gets him professional help, as well as a job at a local grocery store.
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon...
*Winner* of the Percy Janes First Novel Award
*Winner* of the Lawrence Jackson Writers' Award
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon...
*Winner* of the Percy Janes First Novel Award
*Winner* of the Lawrence Jackson Writers' Award
363 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2013
50 people are currently reading
954 people want to read
About the author
Scott Bartlett
116 books310 followersScott Bartlett writes his books from inside a mech, which is inside the hangar bay of a light armored cruiser stationed just past Jupiter.
Certain parts of the last sentence may not be completely true.
Here are some more believable statements:
Scott was born in St. John’s, Newfoundland – the easternmost province of Canada.
During his decade-long journey to become a full-time author, he supported himself by working an assortment of jobs…
...salmon hatchery technician, grocery clerk, youth care worker, ghostwriter, research assistant, pita maker, and freelance editor.
In 2014, he succeeded in becoming a full-time novelist, and he’s been writing science fiction at light speed ever since.
Get 3 FREE military space opera ebooks:
https://www.scottplots.com
Certain parts of the last sentence may not be completely true.
Here are some more believable statements:
Scott was born in St. John’s, Newfoundland – the easternmost province of Canada.
During his decade-long journey to become a full-time author, he supported himself by working an assortment of jobs…
...salmon hatchery technician, grocery clerk, youth care worker, ghostwriter, research assistant, pita maker, and freelance editor.
In 2014, he succeeded in becoming a full-time novelist, and he’s been writing science fiction at light speed ever since.
Get 3 FREE military space opera ebooks:
https://www.scottplots.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 15, 2015
Ugh, let myself be sucked up into a story that I thought was going somewhere. Just a bunch of mindless young 20-something kids smoking pot and acting stupid throughout this whole thing. I liked Sheldon and thought he was a decent kid, but the people he ends up befriending and hanging out with does nothing to improve his lack of social skills. No stand-up people, including other adults, that guide him into being comfortable with himself and thriving after what happened to him after he's left alone and trying to survive after high school. Kinda sad, which mad me sad, and that kinda sucked.
November 19, 2017
When I first started reading this book I thought to myself, “Huh, I like this guy’s style”.
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the subject matter (I was worried that the main character would remind me of someone I knew), but I was intrigued by Sheldon and wanted to know if he was ever going to get his life together (I was even rooting for him sometimes). I was also entertained by the colourful cast of characters around him.
There was one moment, near the last part of the book, where I found myself impatient for a resolution. But when the ending came, Bartlett more than delivered. Those last few pages… Damn.
It’s a more psychological story than action, and you probably won’t like a lot of the characters, but the journey is interesting. The narrator might be clueless, but that doesn’t mean the reader will be.
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the subject matter (I was worried that the main character would remind me of someone I knew), but I was intrigued by Sheldon and wanted to know if he was ever going to get his life together (I was even rooting for him sometimes). I was also entertained by the colourful cast of characters around him.
There was one moment, near the last part of the book, where I found myself impatient for a resolution. But when the ending came, Bartlett more than delivered. Those last few pages… Damn.
It’s a more psychological story than action, and you probably won’t like a lot of the characters, but the journey is interesting. The narrator might be clueless, but that doesn’t mean the reader will be.
April 25, 2014
The story begins with Sheldon Mason’s attempted suicide and the beginning of a serious, thoughtful and humorous journey. I could see this book being made into a television series because of the many mini stories found within it. The dialog is believable and the characters seem like people we could know from our own cities or grocery store (Spend Easy is Sheldon’s first job). There are many unexpected turns and events that unfold in very surprising ways throughout the story which really holds the reader’s attention. I commend Bartlett for tackling a difficult subject with candor and without reservation. For anyone who has been affected by mental health issues or knows someone who has. Recommended.
May 28, 2014
That's the second book of Mr Bartlett I had the pleasure to read. That's the second book of him that did NOT disappoint me at all. It's so different from "Royal Flush", way more serious and life-related but I suppose that was the reason I liked it so much. I mean, I really do can relate to the main character. I can relate to his struggles, I can relate to his actions, in so many ways I'm exactly like him. And I fall for the story.
And I'm looking forward for another books of Scott Bartlett.
And I'm looking forward for another books of Scott Bartlett.
April 14, 2015
Not my usual kind of book but it drew me in and kept me reading. The characters were strange, but believable and appealing in a variety of ways, even though I didn't *like* many of them. The writing style was informal and a bit of an acquired taste, but I think the result was that the reader could really get inside Sheldon's mind. Overall it was dark and somewhat disturbing but I finished the book with a sense of hope that I wasn't really expecting.
August 15, 2025
4.0/5.0
Hell is a place where you hurt the people you love, without meaning to.
Hell is a place where you hurt the people you love, without meaning to.
August 29, 2018
It took me awhile to start this book, but when I picked it up I started to really get into it. I appreciate the insider perspective of what it means to work in a grocery store. I enjoy the sense of rhythm of the job as portrayed in the book. I find the characters to be very human, but also somehow loveable. I find the story weaves a tale that at times feels very drawn out. It is kind of unnerving...yet this might not necessarily be a criticism. The book gets really intense when it comes to the personal demons of the characters.
I am just about done the book and I feel that it is an enriching and unique read.
I am just about done the book and I feel that it is an enriching and unique read.
October 23, 2025
I've had this book for a long time. I was in a reading slump and looking for something different.
This is largely a book about mental illness. Also, bad choices. I liked Sheldon as a character, and was dismayed by his journey in this book. So much depends on the people who influence you, especially if you're floundering a little in life.
The book left me depressed and sad. 2.5 stars, wish I hadn't read it.
This is largely a book about mental illness. Also, bad choices. I liked Sheldon as a character, and was dismayed by his journey in this book. So much depends on the people who influence you, especially if you're floundering a little in life.
The book left me depressed and sad. 2.5 stars, wish I hadn't read it.
February 8, 2025
A surprise and a change
I am a delighted reader and follower of Scott 's sci-fi novels, so this book topic was a surprise.I rea
d it with interest and I must say my time was well spent.The story resonate to some of my earlier talks . Not wanting to give the game away ,I simply encourage you to read it To Scott, another big thank you for making my reading times interesting!
I am a delighted reader and follower of Scott 's sci-fi novels, so this book topic was a surprise.I rea
d it with interest and I must say my time was well spent.The story resonate to some of my earlier talks . Not wanting to give the game away ,I simply encourage you to read it To Scott, another big thank you for making my reading times interesting!
January 27, 2019
Quick read, relatable to any 20 something yesr old who has worked a grocery store before.
This book has an interesting loop, a spiral of sorts and we end where we began. The development we thought Sheldon would see was actually on reverse.
This book has an interesting loop, a spiral of sorts and we end where we began. The development we thought Sheldon would see was actually on reverse.
October 11, 2020
Time Spent...Wasted!
This story was long in the tooth and could've been completed in far less chapters then over 30. Like c'mon, really? The lesson learned here... don't judge a book by its cover (or it's short description in this case). Maybe next time.
This story was long in the tooth and could've been completed in far less chapters then over 30. Like c'mon, really? The lesson learned here... don't judge a book by its cover (or it's short description in this case). Maybe next time.
January 30, 2021
The first Scott Bartlett novel I read I found at a Flea Market. This one I found at a roadside Little Library. I'll look for more ... perhaps in an attic somewhere. A used books store? Or (here's a thought) visit Chapters and buy a brand new one.
January 25, 2019
Kept my attention but don't buy new.
May 27, 2020
Recommend Taking Stock to everyone. Scott captures what but is like to suffer with mental illness perfectly.
August 9, 2021
Good book
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this book.I really enjoyed reading this novel very much. Shelley MA
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this book.I really enjoyed reading this novel very much. Shelley MA
November 14, 2013
I enjoyed it a lot!! A wonderful, memorable piece that I will read again someday! This book has a powerful, moving story and it really hit home for me in numerous ways because I felt that I could relate to the characters so well; especially with the main character, Sheldon. It's a book that makes an impression for sure.
Following the events in Sheldon's life, you'll find a wide range of emotion and thought provoking experience. The main plot's subject is somewhat dark and serious. I dare not give away any spoilers here, so I'll just say that the story explores Sheldon's mental illness, and the causes of it. However, the overall mood is far from dreary because there is great humour injected throughout, some of which literally gave me a cramp from laughing so hard at it! Even within the first few pages, you'll see this comedy shine through. There is also a wee bit of romance and genuine friendship in it which is so touching, that may be tear jerking, or at least make you say "aw".
Other parts of the story have sketchy threatening characters, a suspenseful mystery, and other dangers for Sheldon to overcome. The book makes for a thrilling time, and it's hard to put it down once you start reading it. And for those who follow the author and have read his previous book, you'll find a sort of "easter egg" connecting Sheldon to it. It's an interesting cross of drama, comedy, and thriller genres that never has a dull moment. I believe it also has a lesson in it to be taken, which is made clear in the latter half of the plot. Above all, the entire story is completely original and creative; it resembles nothing, that I can recall, other than itself.
The author has an informal writing style that I find to be easy, smooth reading because it has a sort of realistic and down to Earth feel; like as in actual spoken casual language with a friend. I found it interesting as well, the way the author used a time-switching method (more commonly found in movies), in which a following chapter will go back in time to explain a side story in Sheldon's past.
I would consider it meant for an adult audience, being too "heavy" for a kid. I'm proud to add this to my bookcase's collection, and I would recommend Taking Stock, it's a great book!
Following the events in Sheldon's life, you'll find a wide range of emotion and thought provoking experience. The main plot's subject is somewhat dark and serious. I dare not give away any spoilers here, so I'll just say that the story explores Sheldon's mental illness, and the causes of it. However, the overall mood is far from dreary because there is great humour injected throughout, some of which literally gave me a cramp from laughing so hard at it! Even within the first few pages, you'll see this comedy shine through. There is also a wee bit of romance and genuine friendship in it which is so touching, that may be tear jerking, or at least make you say "aw".
Other parts of the story have sketchy threatening characters, a suspenseful mystery, and other dangers for Sheldon to overcome. The book makes for a thrilling time, and it's hard to put it down once you start reading it. And for those who follow the author and have read his previous book, you'll find a sort of "easter egg" connecting Sheldon to it. It's an interesting cross of drama, comedy, and thriller genres that never has a dull moment. I believe it also has a lesson in it to be taken, which is made clear in the latter half of the plot. Above all, the entire story is completely original and creative; it resembles nothing, that I can recall, other than itself.
The author has an informal writing style that I find to be easy, smooth reading because it has a sort of realistic and down to Earth feel; like as in actual spoken casual language with a friend. I found it interesting as well, the way the author used a time-switching method (more commonly found in movies), in which a following chapter will go back in time to explain a side story in Sheldon's past.
I would consider it meant for an adult audience, being too "heavy" for a kid. I'm proud to add this to my bookcase's collection, and I would recommend Taking Stock, it's a great book!
April 17, 2014
Synopsis: "Just as Sheldon Mason is about to end it all, he meets his upstairs neighbour, a drug dealer named Sam. Sam gets him professional help, as well as a job at a local grocery store.
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon..."
My Review: I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I have previously read Royal Flush by Scott Bartlett and found his style of writing to be interesting and unique. I did have a little bit of difficulty with the jumping around in the timeline, sometimes you are in the present and some times in the past and occasionally it is difficult to tell where exactly you are in the order of things. I did find this to be an interesting novel that takes you from a time when Sheldon is at rock bottom and his struggle to climb back up and those who help him or appear to help him. You follow Sheldon along as he climbs and makes progress and then as he slides down again. At times I found it a little depressing, though that is part of what the book is about and if you are feeling the emotions then it is a well written book. It may not be a book for everyone but for some it will be a great book.
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon..."
My Review: I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I have previously read Royal Flush by Scott Bartlett and found his style of writing to be interesting and unique. I did have a little bit of difficulty with the jumping around in the timeline, sometimes you are in the present and some times in the past and occasionally it is difficult to tell where exactly you are in the order of things. I did find this to be an interesting novel that takes you from a time when Sheldon is at rock bottom and his struggle to climb back up and those who help him or appear to help him. You follow Sheldon along as he climbs and makes progress and then as he slides down again. At times I found it a little depressing, though that is part of what the book is about and if you are feeling the emotions then it is a well written book. It may not be a book for everyone but for some it will be a great book.
January 3, 2016
Dark, very dark. The main character in Taking Stock, Sheldon, is struggling with depression. At twenty he has a sense of hopelessness and despair, with no purpose in life. After a failed attempt at suicide, he is found a job, his first job, working in a small supermarket stocking shelves. There he meets Gilbert, one of the most unpleasant characters I have encountered in fiction. Shelton is surrounded by people whose lives are as meaningless as his own. They smoke weed, drink, party, smoke more weed.
Initially Sheldon rejects this lifestyle but is slowly drawn in by the manipulative psychopathic Gilbert. His life spirals downward.
There is some comic relief, but the depressing nature of the story is relentless.
However, Taking Stock is very well written. The characters are well developed and Sheldon is particularly realistic. I didn't like many of the characters, I didn't like the way they lived, I didn't like the smallness of their lives, but I loved the writing. The dialogue and prose is superb and the themes of drug use and mental illness are thoroughly explored.
Great literary fiction.
Initially Sheldon rejects this lifestyle but is slowly drawn in by the manipulative psychopathic Gilbert. His life spirals downward.
There is some comic relief, but the depressing nature of the story is relentless.
However, Taking Stock is very well written. The characters are well developed and Sheldon is particularly realistic. I didn't like many of the characters, I didn't like the way they lived, I didn't like the smallness of their lives, but I loved the writing. The dialogue and prose is superb and the themes of drug use and mental illness are thoroughly explored.
Great literary fiction.
January 2, 2015
If I had to choose one word to describe this novel, it'd have to be 'real.' It's not exactly easy to relate to every aspect of Sheldon's life - heck, it's not even easy to simply like him at times - but there are many times while reading Taking Stock that I found myself nodding in agreement to his thoughts, his actions and reactions to the various situations in which he finds himself.
I imagine that's different for every single person who reads the book, of course, but I'd wager just about anyone can relate to Sheldon's plight in one way or another, no matter how small or large a scale. That's what really struck me with this work; it's grounded in familiarity - we all probably know someone like one of the characters in the book at least, or have been like them at some point in our lives.
The fact that the book tackles mental health issues in a frank and direct manner is a bonus to what is already an enjoyable read. It's the first book I've read from the author and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from him in the near future.
I imagine that's different for every single person who reads the book, of course, but I'd wager just about anyone can relate to Sheldon's plight in one way or another, no matter how small or large a scale. That's what really struck me with this work; it's grounded in familiarity - we all probably know someone like one of the characters in the book at least, or have been like them at some point in our lives.
The fact that the book tackles mental health issues in a frank and direct manner is a bonus to what is already an enjoyable read. It's the first book I've read from the author and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from him in the near future.
January 18, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were all very well written, and while I would never hang out with any of them, they felt like they could be actual people, they were so well developed.
The story was fascinating. Funny from the start, but incredibly dark and Sheldon falls deeper into the world of his own mental illness. Each time it looks like he is going to help himself I cheered him on, and each time he fell deeper, I was sad and disappointed. The story brought forth many emotions and made me want to read more.
The informal writing style was perfect for the story. The author seemed to keep within the realm of comfortable language, making it an easy read for a difficult subject. The jumping back and forth between Sheldon's time in the hospital and the supermarket was clear and well done.
I will be picking up this author's other book (and those to come) the next time I see him selling them. Might as well get a signed copy if I can!
The story was fascinating. Funny from the start, but incredibly dark and Sheldon falls deeper into the world of his own mental illness. Each time it looks like he is going to help himself I cheered him on, and each time he fell deeper, I was sad and disappointed. The story brought forth many emotions and made me want to read more.
The informal writing style was perfect for the story. The author seemed to keep within the realm of comfortable language, making it an easy read for a difficult subject. The jumping back and forth between Sheldon's time in the hospital and the supermarket was clear and well done.
I will be picking up this author's other book (and those to come) the next time I see him selling them. Might as well get a signed copy if I can!
October 27, 2014
So I had the good fortune to run in to Scott at a local event and just happened upon his booth. I am so glad I did. As an avid reader I am always looking for a book that I can enjoy and that has characters that you can related to and root for. This was the case in the well crafted character Sheldon. From the first copy pages of the book i was laughing at his outlook on things.
Scott opens up a side of mental illness that is not commonly seen. Sheldon goes though like one day at a time trying to make relationship, keep a job and just life out his days.
Enter Gilbert who at first seems to be just what Sheldon needs ....
Very well written and hard to put down. I would recommend this read to anyone.
Scott opens up a side of mental illness that is not commonly seen. Sheldon goes though like one day at a time trying to make relationship, keep a job and just life out his days.
Enter Gilbert who at first seems to be just what Sheldon needs ....
Very well written and hard to put down. I would recommend this read to anyone.
April 17, 2015
Good story
The main character isn't always so likeable but I found myself carrying for him and wanting God things for him. He suffers from depression and after 2 years without his mom (who was hit by a drunk driver and now there is suspicion that she may have done it on purpose) Sheldon is highly intelligent, but social skills lacking. After his suicide attempt Sam, the older neighbor upstairs helps him out but Sheldon instead hangs out with the losers at the grocery store where he is the new stock boy. At the store it's work politics as usual and Sheldon doesn't know how to and doesn't want to play. This is a good book about everyday disjunction and how those effected get through.
The main character isn't always so likeable but I found myself carrying for him and wanting God things for him. He suffers from depression and after 2 years without his mom (who was hit by a drunk driver and now there is suspicion that she may have done it on purpose) Sheldon is highly intelligent, but social skills lacking. After his suicide attempt Sam, the older neighbor upstairs helps him out but Sheldon instead hangs out with the losers at the grocery store where he is the new stock boy. At the store it's work politics as usual and Sheldon doesn't know how to and doesn't want to play. This is a good book about everyday disjunction and how those effected get through.
February 12, 2017
I came across Scott at the St. John's Farmers market in late 2016 and ended up picking up his book. I was a little later starting than I had hoped, but I'm glad I took the time to read it. I did enjoy it. Following Sheldon from a down state, to an up state, and then to the ultimate low again was certainly a journey. He was very enjoyable to read about for sure. I will say that I hated the ending. That's the main reason for the slightly lower rating. I turned the last page, hoping to see the next chapter, and saw "Acknowledgements", and I was less than impressed. Overall, I would definitely recommend you read it, just prepare for a few loose endings and a little bit of a heavy heart.
January 6, 2015
Exciting story keeping interest from start to the end. Scott truly knows how to capture readers.
He painted a dark world - Sheldon seeming the only sane person among all those 'officially' normal. Crossed my fingers for him to find enough strength but the author knows life far too much: whenever I felt it couldn't be worse, it just hit me on the head. Yet I hope we can be Phoenixes sometimes...
I can only recommend this book to everyone and am eagerly waiting for Scott Bartlett's new novels!!
He painted a dark world - Sheldon seeming the only sane person among all those 'officially' normal. Crossed my fingers for him to find enough strength but the author knows life far too much: whenever I felt it couldn't be worse, it just hit me on the head. Yet I hope we can be Phoenixes sometimes...
I can only recommend this book to everyone and am eagerly waiting for Scott Bartlett's new novels!!
March 18, 2015
A thought provoking book, and a bit of a sad book.
Sheldon is alone in the world and tries to end his own life. His upstairs neighbour, Sam, prevents this from happening and helps him find treatment, and a job in a nearby grocery store. A whole load of ( sometimes confusing) characters work in this place. We follow Sheldon as he tries to make sense of the happenings in the store, and of his own world.
Do not expect to get full explanations, as I was left with some question marks by the end of the book.
Well worth the read.
Sheldon is alone in the world and tries to end his own life. His upstairs neighbour, Sam, prevents this from happening and helps him find treatment, and a job in a nearby grocery store. A whole load of ( sometimes confusing) characters work in this place. We follow Sheldon as he tries to make sense of the happenings in the store, and of his own world.
Do not expect to get full explanations, as I was left with some question marks by the end of the book.
Well worth the read.
March 14, 2015
I am not a fan of the ending, which I found to be ambiguous and apropos of nothing, but otherwise I enjoyed reading this book. The author did an excellent job with character development, and the dialog rang true to the characters. It was an interesting exploration into the mind and experiences of a mentally unhealthy young man, struggling to deal with the trials and tribulations of real life. There were a host of immature characters that the author brought to life with lively detail. If I had liked the last few pages more, I would have considered giving this book an extra star.
August 17, 2015
This isn't a book for the faint of heart. It's very dark, very brooding and doesn't provide any resolution to the main characters' concerns. I honestly only finished it because it's a local author I had the pleasure to meet in person. It's much too dark for me. I think even a few chapters more with a small glimmer of positivity at the end would have made it easier for me to recommend. I will say it did draw me in, was very well written, and I certainly think this author has some great storytelling ability.
May 28, 2014
Scott Bartlett offers up a novel full of memorable characters and a page burning plot that stays with you long after you finish. We follow the protagonist, Sheldon Mason on a journey that begins with a half hearted suicide attempt, through the twisted and thought provoking world and meet the odd and funny people that populate that world Bartlett has created. It is definitely worth the trip and should not be missed.
March 26, 2015
Interesting read .I found the characters very believable , not very likeable but believable. I did feel for the main character who was suffering from metal illness and depression but seemed to fall in with a bad crowd who introduced him to marijuana which didn't hep his depression issues. Interesting portrayal of youngsters who worked in a grocery store too and all the odd balls who ended up there which I am am sure s not a true picture of all grocery stores!
April 28, 2015
Just as Sheldon Mason is about to end it all, he meets his upstairs neighbour, a drug dealer named Sam. Sam gets him professional help, as well as a job at a local grocery store.
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon...
The ending was horrible!
As he struggles to make sense of his life, Sheldon starts to notice something odd about one of his new co-workers, Gilbert Ryan. Gilbert seems to know about Sheldon's mental health issues - in fact, he seems to know secrets about everyone.
And Gilbert sees value in Sheldon...
The ending was horrible!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews