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Robinson's Dream
Robinson Cahill is a writer. His wife, Martha, is an attorney, and the two of them have a problem. Their nineteen-year-old son has gone too far, committing a serious crime. Robinson and Martha learn about the crime, and they're not sure what to do. They decide it would be prudent to sleep on the matter before talking to their son. Robinson goes to bed that night and falls into a dream odyssey of thought-provoking memories and fantasies. This remarkable novel-length dream spurs his subconscious wisdom, becoming the inspiration behind the words he has with his son the next day.
- GenresFictionContemporary
298 pages, Paperback
Published January 23, 2020
2 people are currently reading
1826 people want to read
About the author
Mark Lages
21 books311 followersQuickly...I was born and raised in California, but now live in South Carolina with my wife and our animals. I am neither a liberal nor a conservative. In fact, I despise politics. I think of myself as an artist, and not as a journalist. I've been influenced by Milton Friedman, Frank Lloyd Wright, Hunter S Thompson, Douglas Adams, Salvador Dali, MC Escher, JS Bach, Keith Jarrett, Vincent Price, Tom Waits, and many others. I like to smoke cigars and drink lots of coffee. And I do love to write. Lock me in a room with a box of cigars, a coffee maker, and a computer, and I will do just fine. Click here to leap to my website for more info about me and my books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 8, 2020
Robinson, and his wife Martha, are dealing with a very serious issue concerning their nineteen year old son, Robert. They are confounded and dismayed by the fact that their polite, personable, smart son is a thief and has been one as early as the age of eight years old. Robert will think through whether the reward of stealing something is worth the risk and then act on his decision. They've thought he was maturing, growing up, becoming a responsible adult but discover that Robert has stolen something very valuable from Martha's boss. Not only that, he used Martha's dinner party to get the information he needed to know what to steal.
When Martha discovers the goods in Robert's closet, Robinson and his wife decide to sleep on the matter. They are torn because they want Robert to see the consequences of stealing, they want him to know they aren't going to just let it slide, but at that same time, they are terrified of calling the police and risking jail time for their son. So they go to bed and once Robinson falls asleep, his brain is working overtime, taking him through all aspects of his life, allowing him to see things from different viewpoints and helping him to realize what he thought he remembered, of the past, might not be reality at all.
Along the way there are some great cameos. Plato, God, and Satan make appearances along with people from Robinson's past. My favorite appearance was Matt Dillon, from Gunsmoke, helping to poke around Robert's room along with a couple of modern day detectives. Locations and scenery can change instantly and at times Robinson is different ages in his dream. I got confused every now and then but what dream isn't confusing? The story is funny, sad, and insightful, making me think, as Robinson processes what he is seeing, hearing, and feeling.
Thank you to the author, Mark Lages, for this ARC.
When Martha discovers the goods in Robert's closet, Robinson and his wife decide to sleep on the matter. They are torn because they want Robert to see the consequences of stealing, they want him to know they aren't going to just let it slide, but at that same time, they are terrified of calling the police and risking jail time for their son. So they go to bed and once Robinson falls asleep, his brain is working overtime, taking him through all aspects of his life, allowing him to see things from different viewpoints and helping him to realize what he thought he remembered, of the past, might not be reality at all.
Along the way there are some great cameos. Plato, God, and Satan make appearances along with people from Robinson's past. My favorite appearance was Matt Dillon, from Gunsmoke, helping to poke around Robert's room along with a couple of modern day detectives. Locations and scenery can change instantly and at times Robinson is different ages in his dream. I got confused every now and then but what dream isn't confusing? The story is funny, sad, and insightful, making me think, as Robinson processes what he is seeing, hearing, and feeling.
Thank you to the author, Mark Lages, for this ARC.
March 5, 2020
This is a novel about fathers and sons, a question of ethics, and a long, mild ride through a man's dream throughout one long night as he works through his feelings.
One thing this novel has going for it is its insistence on keeping everything down-to-earth even though the basic structure could very well have been wild. I mean, there's a new dream chapter-by-chapter, with cameos from God and Satan and Plato among a fairly wide cast of characters, but it never gets particularly *weird*. And it even avoided the old "It was all a dream" trope so maligned in pulp novels. :)
I definitely recommend this for anyone who wants a comfortable, feel-good tale full of stories within stories, a number of fables, and a good couple of handfuls of jokes. The ethics may not be all that surprising, but the point is to follow the PROCESS. :)
One thing this novel has going for it is its insistence on keeping everything down-to-earth even though the basic structure could very well have been wild. I mean, there's a new dream chapter-by-chapter, with cameos from God and Satan and Plato among a fairly wide cast of characters, but it never gets particularly *weird*. And it even avoided the old "It was all a dream" trope so maligned in pulp novels. :)
I definitely recommend this for anyone who wants a comfortable, feel-good tale full of stories within stories, a number of fables, and a good couple of handfuls of jokes. The ethics may not be all that surprising, but the point is to follow the PROCESS. :)
April 6, 2020
Quite an interesting book, and I really enjoyed it. When faced with a difficult decision in regards to his son, the main character - Robinson Cahill - is led on a funky, way-out, and sometimes jarring (albeit in a good way, ultimately) journey through his dream in an attempt to find answers on how to handle a family dilemma. What he gets is eye openers and even some inspirational truths.
Thumbs up to the author on a well written story. 👍👍
I give this honest review of my own accord. I also wish to thank the author for allowing me this opportunity to read this book - I am both appreciative and grateful. Thank you.
Thumbs up to the author on a well written story. 👍👍
I give this honest review of my own accord. I also wish to thank the author for allowing me this opportunity to read this book - I am both appreciative and grateful. Thank you.
January 27, 2020
A wonderfully written plethora of imaginative dreams, once again Mark Lages doesn't disappoint. From a parent's heartstrings, comes a dilemma that takes a father through a night's dreamstate conjuring a lifetime of memories. Something for everyone, the author has an uncanny ability to connect to readers, interweaving life events, lessons and perspectives. A must read for parents, a pleasurable read for everyone; you won't walk away empty-handed, but you will walk away all the wiser.
June 23, 2020
Robinson and Martha have a problem .. their 19-year-old son, Robert. Robert's been a bit of a problem child for a long time .. .but he's gone too far this time. He's committed a crime ... not for the first time, but this is the most serious and has severe repercussions .. IF they decide to take this to the police.
Robinson goes to bed that night and falls into a dream odyssey of thought-provoking memories and fantasies. This remarkable novel-length dream spurs his subconscious wisdom, becoming the inspiration behind the words he has with his son the next day.
This story asks the question ... as a parent tasked with protecting their children ... do you do the ethically right thing and report to the police ... or do you let it go ...again .. and hope that the boy understands and corrects his illegal ways? Let him off the hook "this time" only?
What would YOU do?
This is a thought-provoking tale of a parent's love for their child ..... and hurting because their child is not the affable, smart son they've always believed him to be. The author does a good job is presenting both sides through a series of dreams. As a parent reading this, I found myself wondering ... what would I do.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this captivating story. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 4, 2020
I just started this book this morning. At first, when the character was describing his and his family's life, I was interested in the story. I don't want to write any spoilers...what I will say is once the character started talking about the dream sequence, I couldn't read any further.
Edited - The author contacted me and said he thought it was mean-spirited of me to give his book one star because I didn't like it being about a dream when I knew it was about a dream and when I didn't even read it.
Edited - I tried to reread the book this morning and I just don't like the book. I do like the beginning writing but once the dream starts, I didn't care for the story or the way it was written. I don't have a problem with the book being about a dream. I did not like the characters or the story.
Edited - The author contacted me and said he thought it was mean-spirited of me to give his book one star because I didn't like it being about a dream when I knew it was about a dream and when I didn't even read it.
Edited - I tried to reread the book this morning and I just don't like the book. I do like the beginning writing but once the dream starts, I didn't care for the story or the way it was written. I don't have a problem with the book being about a dream. I did not like the characters or the story.
November 3, 2020
First I want to start off with a quick commentary. I saw in one of the reviews posted where the reader received a message from the author Mark Lages of disparagement regarding a one star rating of this book. I have no idea whether this is true or not (whether Mark sent such a message), but i do know that if any author were to do that it would be a pretty deplorable act of pettiness. Such an act shows an author who has very little respect for the opinions of hie readers unless said opinions suit his purpose. After all dont we all stand to learn more from opinions that differ from our own, then from those that are similar to our own ...
Now as to Robinson's Dream, I found this to be a wonderful story about real moments that we all face, can we do the right thing regardless of the outcome and where do we go to find out what the right thing to do is. With a wonderfully eclectic combination of dream like fantasy and dream like reality Mark takes us on a voyage of the human psychic, where the sum total of humanity is stored and remembered. Mark manages to remind us that none of us is on a voyage that someone else hasn't already taken. He also manages to remind us that the answer is always right in front of us, if we care enough to see it or care enough to let it open itself up to us.
I loved how Robinson's dream is like a thin white window curtain on a cool day, it moves from the breeze, waving and flowing, yet if you focus and look through the curtain it is easy to see what is on the other side, I can't think of a better description on life in general.
In my opinion (humble as it is) an outstanding read and worthy of any reader giving it a try ..
Thank you Mark Lages for the free copy you sent me in exchange of an honest review
Now as to Robinson's Dream, I found this to be a wonderful story about real moments that we all face, can we do the right thing regardless of the outcome and where do we go to find out what the right thing to do is. With a wonderfully eclectic combination of dream like fantasy and dream like reality Mark takes us on a voyage of the human psychic, where the sum total of humanity is stored and remembered. Mark manages to remind us that none of us is on a voyage that someone else hasn't already taken. He also manages to remind us that the answer is always right in front of us, if we care enough to see it or care enough to let it open itself up to us.
I loved how Robinson's dream is like a thin white window curtain on a cool day, it moves from the breeze, waving and flowing, yet if you focus and look through the curtain it is easy to see what is on the other side, I can't think of a better description on life in general.
In my opinion (humble as it is) an outstanding read and worthy of any reader giving it a try ..
Thank you Mark Lages for the free copy you sent me in exchange of an honest review
February 11, 2020
This wasn’t the book for me. I realize the premise of the book was all about the dreams, the many dreams, Robinson had. They were creative and some were out there. The story felt chaotic to me and I just wanted to get on with what to to do about Robert. I couldn’t enjoy the wild ride of the dreams because my focus was on Robert. I would call it my problem and no fault of the book. I’m sure most people will get on the bus to dreamland and thoroughly enjoy the ride. I just wanted off.
March 7, 2020
Mark Lages sent me a copy of Robinson’s Dream as a gift, with no strings attached.
Another great, fun and thought provoking read from Mark Lages. I’ve read three novels by Mr. Lages and each one of them is distinctly different from the others. The common thread is Mr. Lages’ wry commentary on the human condition.
Another great, fun and thought provoking read from Mark Lages. I’ve read three novels by Mr. Lages and each one of them is distinctly different from the others. The common thread is Mr. Lages’ wry commentary on the human condition.
March 21, 2020
This latest book from Mark Lages is far above any of his previous material. (I am not saying his prior books were in any way bad, just not as good as this one.) I was hooked from the very first chapter until the last page and thoroughly entertained in between. Having read most of his prior works, I definitely notice a marked improvement in not only his writing style, but also his storyline plotting, character development and overall cohesiveness of his ability to lure the reader into his world of words.
I am not going to get into details regarding this book. It is too well written for that. One must read this remarkably brilliant grouping of words and ideas to truly appreciate them. It has been a while since I have given a book a full 5 🌟 's, but I feel that this book definitely earned all of them.
This book not only entertains, it makes you feel, think and empathize with the characters, particularly the MC, Robinson. Brought to life with quality craftsmanship, the author draws you into his life, hopes, failures and yes, dreams, to a point where you can virtually "see" through Robinson's eyes various points in his life. This builds up to a wonderful conclusion for the book that had this reader caught between laughing and crying.
I am not going to get into details regarding this book. It is too well written for that. One must read this remarkably brilliant grouping of words and ideas to truly appreciate them. It has been a while since I have given a book a full 5 🌟 's, but I feel that this book definitely earned all of them.
This book not only entertains, it makes you feel, think and empathize with the characters, particularly the MC, Robinson. Brought to life with quality craftsmanship, the author draws you into his life, hopes, failures and yes, dreams, to a point where you can virtually "see" through Robinson's eyes various points in his life. This builds up to a wonderful conclusion for the book that had this reader caught between laughing and crying.
May 13, 2020
This is my fourth novel by Mark Lages, and it did not disappoint! :) I loved it!
In this novel, a couple discovers that their son has committed a serious crime, and they have to decide what to do. Most of the novel is spent in, you guessed it, Robinson's dream. They decided to sleep on the matter before acting, and this book is his subconscious working through it. :)
"Robinson's Dream" is a wonderful and imaginative story. It's a very entertaining and thought-provoking novel. Like Mark's other novel's I've read. :) There's a decent amount of humor sprinkled in, too, which I loved.
Mark does a great job of creating a surreal, dream-like feel to the book. It reminded me a lot of the classic stories, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking Glass."
I loved this book and I highly recommend it for fans of Mark's other books and anyone who loves a good story.
In this novel, a couple discovers that their son has committed a serious crime, and they have to decide what to do. Most of the novel is spent in, you guessed it, Robinson's dream. They decided to sleep on the matter before acting, and this book is his subconscious working through it. :)
"Robinson's Dream" is a wonderful and imaginative story. It's a very entertaining and thought-provoking novel. Like Mark's other novel's I've read. :) There's a decent amount of humor sprinkled in, too, which I loved.
Mark does a great job of creating a surreal, dream-like feel to the book. It reminded me a lot of the classic stories, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking Glass."
I loved this book and I highly recommend it for fans of Mark's other books and anyone who loves a good story.
March 5, 2020
A Book That Make You Think
I love how this author tells a story. I've read many of his books. You never know where and how he will take you there. In this book he takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the main character's dream. I've had strange and disjointed dreams but Robinson's takes the cake. Yet, there are many things to learn from this dream so take the ride!
I love how this author tells a story. I've read many of his books. You never know where and how he will take you there. In this book he takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the main character's dream. I've had strange and disjointed dreams but Robinson's takes the cake. Yet, there are many things to learn from this dream so take the ride!
May 15, 2020
This story is about Robinson and his wife who thought they did everything right raising their teenage son only to find out that their efforts really didn’t pay off as expected. Their son found himself in a mess and they weren’t sure how to approach the situation. Robinson and wife decide to sleep on it, and while doing so, Robinson falls into a dream and dreams within dreams of strange events having to do with his fears, anxieties, his son, family members, friends, and a kaleidoscope of other things.
Like Lages’s other book, King Clown, this book has a similar style, however, the pacing was much better in this one. From start to finish, I was immersed. There’s really not a huge plot or rising actions. It is a story of situations that take place without an obvious climax but still gets the message across. The humor is excellent. A lot of it is dark but well done. I laughed my heart out. The story itself is not very serious but the messages are. It’s just a wonderful read and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to laugh and cry and think deep about life.
Note: I was given this book to read and review, but the opinion is my own.
Like Lages’s other book, King Clown, this book has a similar style, however, the pacing was much better in this one. From start to finish, I was immersed. There’s really not a huge plot or rising actions. It is a story of situations that take place without an obvious climax but still gets the message across. The humor is excellent. A lot of it is dark but well done. I laughed my heart out. The story itself is not very serious but the messages are. It’s just a wonderful read and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to laugh and cry and think deep about life.
Note: I was given this book to read and review, but the opinion is my own.
February 14, 2020
Another fantastic book from Mark Lages....he has become one of my favorite authors and I always look forward to his next story. I was sucked into this one from the start, at first I did really want to know how the parents were going to deal with Robert but as the dreams began unfolding I enjoyed getting lost in them. Parts of the book really tug at the heartstrings as a parent. I wondered what would I do if this were my child? Having conversations with loved ones from the past, this makes you really think deeply about how much we bury subconsciously and how it can come back in the moments we least expect it. I love how Mark really engages your emotions as well as your mind to think about so many different subjects. No two books are the same so if one didn't appeal to you, I recommend trying another.
February 22, 2020
Always original and extraordinarily entertaining! Reading Lages' books are always a unique one of a kind experiences. I loved the concept of finding wisdom in our dreams as we work out everyday problems. I enjoyed that Robinson's dreams seemed to be random creative stories yet led him to the best way to solve his dilemma with his son. It was a fun journey and when I closed the book I really didn't want it to be over. Smart, funny, thought provoking and a good read.
April 15, 2020
In Robinson's Dream, Robinson faces a dilemma that I'm sure many of us have thought about and tried to answer, at least in some form. You find out one of the people that are most precious to you has done something wrong, and you wonder what to do about it. Do you turn them in, confront them, do whatever you can to right the wrong without getting them in trouble? Honestly, it's impossible to know without actually being in such a situation. And I think this book does a pretty good job of communicating that.
While I was interested in this story from the very beginning because it quickly explained the dilemma in a way that drew me in, I didn't love it at the start, because a few of the comments / ideas used felt too familiar. I'm not 100% certain that they were already used in another of Lages's books, but that's what I thought at the time. At this point, I can't even tell you which specific ideas they were, because it didn't matter to me once I read a little more.
Like all of Lages's books, this one had a few jokes - I do really enjoy most of these jokes, but I also did appreciate the fact that he went with fables more than jokes in this one. It just changes things up a little bit, which can be nice. I also appreciated that this one had a fair amount of dialogue, because that made it feel like an easier read, or a better break from reality with everything that's been going on (though, that is on me. I probably should've read a quicker, more lighthearted book before this one so I had that break and could enjoy this one more and I knew that, but it worked out). I also did like the way that this one jumped between scenes a lot better than I did in King Clown. It made a lot more sense, and it helped remind me where I was at when I came back to reading the book. Lages also did an excellent job of bringing Robinson back out of his dream at the end of the book, so no complaints there, either... I did think that the ending was a little bit quick and optimistic considering how Robert was portrayed throughout the rest of the book, but I don't know what else could have been done. It is a satisfactory ending, because it is "happy" - it is the ideal answer to the dilemma, and it leaves hope for the future and an indication that Robert will get help, but also the potential to think that Robert's just taking advantage of his parents and will not change his ways (for those of us who didn't forget that he was painted as a little bit sketchy at times).
Overall, I am happy with this book, but I'm not going to lie - I'm still hoping to see something a little bit less "heavy" from Lages at some point. Something completely new, or maybe a continuation of California Has Fallen. I'm still happy to read anything from him, though! :)
While I was interested in this story from the very beginning because it quickly explained the dilemma in a way that drew me in, I didn't love it at the start, because a few of the comments / ideas used felt too familiar. I'm not 100% certain that they were already used in another of Lages's books, but that's what I thought at the time. At this point, I can't even tell you which specific ideas they were, because it didn't matter to me once I read a little more.
Like all of Lages's books, this one had a few jokes - I do really enjoy most of these jokes, but I also did appreciate the fact that he went with fables more than jokes in this one. It just changes things up a little bit, which can be nice. I also appreciated that this one had a fair amount of dialogue, because that made it feel like an easier read, or a better break from reality with everything that's been going on (though, that is on me. I probably should've read a quicker, more lighthearted book before this one so I had that break and could enjoy this one more and I knew that, but it worked out). I also did like the way that this one jumped between scenes a lot better than I did in King Clown. It made a lot more sense, and it helped remind me where I was at when I came back to reading the book. Lages also did an excellent job of bringing Robinson back out of his dream at the end of the book, so no complaints there, either... I did think that the ending was a little bit quick and optimistic considering how Robert was portrayed throughout the rest of the book, but I don't know what else could have been done. It is a satisfactory ending, because it is "happy" - it is the ideal answer to the dilemma, and it leaves hope for the future and an indication that Robert will get help, but also the potential to think that Robert's just taking advantage of his parents and will not change his ways (for those of us who didn't forget that he was painted as a little bit sketchy at times).
Overall, I am happy with this book, but I'm not going to lie - I'm still hoping to see something a little bit less "heavy" from Lages at some point. Something completely new, or maybe a continuation of California Has Fallen. I'm still happy to read anything from him, though! :)
June 2, 2020
I read hundreds of books a year. Everything from Trashy romance to pedantic treatises on science and government. Often in other languages. I like to think, at my age, I can tell what I like and why it resonates. Mark Lages "Robinson's Dream" just jumped to my #1 read so far this year. This isn't just a story to be read; it is an experience to transform.
With incredible voice, Lages starts us on a journey of discovery. In the front of your mind the entire time is the quandary: what would you do if you child stole? What makes this a book of incredible value is the epic journey that starts with that dilemma. It is a journey that delves into any and everything of importance to a man as he learns what it means to be a father. What it means to love unconditionally. What it means to be a man in the world today. It is often surreal, presented in dreamscape; but always enlightening. I was up all night reading the first 80% and finished it last night. I took so many notes, applauding the raw, unapologetic pain that is captured in a master ode to failure...or is it success?
As the great influencers with their sage advice fade in and out of this stream of unconsciousness, Robison tries to make sense of what has gone before and what he is being guided to do. A cast of characters from mom/dad to Plato and the odd M.D. populate the surreal landscape that becomes a parent's dream (nightmare)....Is it Live? Or is it Memorex? Throughout, is always the question, what is real? What is important? And for me: what happens to the son, Robert?
There is nothing sacred in how Lage's characters pick apart humanity. But in opening Robison's Dream to us all, he offers us something incredibly valuable... A chance to transform. To do better. To BE better.
I am so in awe of this book, that I plan on sharing copies with friends. It doesn't matter your age. It doesn't matter what your personal beliefs are - this is a book worth adding to your library. I initially registered for this as a giveaway; and, when I did not win it, chose to buy a copy. This is one of my great finds. An author worth following. Well Done!
With incredible voice, Lages starts us on a journey of discovery. In the front of your mind the entire time is the quandary: what would you do if you child stole? What makes this a book of incredible value is the epic journey that starts with that dilemma. It is a journey that delves into any and everything of importance to a man as he learns what it means to be a father. What it means to love unconditionally. What it means to be a man in the world today. It is often surreal, presented in dreamscape; but always enlightening. I was up all night reading the first 80% and finished it last night. I took so many notes, applauding the raw, unapologetic pain that is captured in a master ode to failure...or is it success?
As the great influencers with their sage advice fade in and out of this stream of unconsciousness, Robison tries to make sense of what has gone before and what he is being guided to do. A cast of characters from mom/dad to Plato and the odd M.D. populate the surreal landscape that becomes a parent's dream (nightmare)....Is it Live? Or is it Memorex? Throughout, is always the question, what is real? What is important? And for me: what happens to the son, Robert?
There is nothing sacred in how Lage's characters pick apart humanity. But in opening Robison's Dream to us all, he offers us something incredibly valuable... A chance to transform. To do better. To BE better.
I am so in awe of this book, that I plan on sharing copies with friends. It doesn't matter your age. It doesn't matter what your personal beliefs are - this is a book worth adding to your library. I initially registered for this as a giveaway; and, when I did not win it, chose to buy a copy. This is one of my great finds. An author worth following. Well Done!
March 14, 2020
Robinson's Dream by Mark Lages is another profound novel by the prolific writer. I have been promoting his work for over three years! He defines a category and writes about life and how we are not perfect but we are all each other has in this crazy world.
Robinson Cahill is a late baby boomer who is just trying to keep up with the ever changing world. He squeaks out a living as a novelist while his wife, Martha, is the bread winner as a lawyer. Their pride and joy is their young adult son Robert.
All seems perfectly idyllic until they discover their son has committed a serious crime. Upset and shocked they decide to sleep on it and deal with their son in the morning. This event sets off a session of dreams as Robinson subconsciously deals with his son's indiscretion.
Through his dreams we meet his version of God, his high school crush, take a trip in outer space and even have a few conversations with the Greek philosopher Plato. The writer intersperses some fables, some jokes and some regrets that lead Robinson to offer his son the best help and advice he can under the circumstances.
Mark Lages has the uncanny ability to write so that you feel like one of your closest friends is letting you read their journal and sometimes you feel he has read your own words and is putting it out there for all to read. As is usual in his books, Robinson's Dream takes us on a journey that gives us pause to think of how we would handle such a situation and what conclusions our own dreams would bring to us to resolve this dilemma.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Robinson Cahill is a late baby boomer who is just trying to keep up with the ever changing world. He squeaks out a living as a novelist while his wife, Martha, is the bread winner as a lawyer. Their pride and joy is their young adult son Robert.
All seems perfectly idyllic until they discover their son has committed a serious crime. Upset and shocked they decide to sleep on it and deal with their son in the morning. This event sets off a session of dreams as Robinson subconsciously deals with his son's indiscretion.
Through his dreams we meet his version of God, his high school crush, take a trip in outer space and even have a few conversations with the Greek philosopher Plato. The writer intersperses some fables, some jokes and some regrets that lead Robinson to offer his son the best help and advice he can under the circumstances.
Mark Lages has the uncanny ability to write so that you feel like one of your closest friends is letting you read their journal and sometimes you feel he has read your own words and is putting it out there for all to read. As is usual in his books, Robinson's Dream takes us on a journey that gives us pause to think of how we would handle such a situation and what conclusions our own dreams would bring to us to resolve this dilemma.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 17, 2020
Martha Cahill (wife/mother, attorney) decided to have a dinner party.
Jeremy Whitehouse (Martha’s boss, attorney), Robinson Cahill (husband, writer), Robert Cahill (19, son) & his girlfriend had a great time dinner/wine.
Jeremy had quite a few glasses of wine & was getting quite talkative.
He happened to mention his valuable coin collection.
It seems it came up missing.
Robinson & Martha found something in Robert’s room.
It could lead to serious legal issues.
1-day, a knock at the front door, Officer Rudy Gonzales & Officer Eddie Yang (partner) introduced their self to Robinson.
That night Robinson goes to bed & falls into a dream of old Dodge City & Matt Dillion.
The dreams & episodes continue (Peru; Vietnam; Spaceship; Mars).
Robinson & Martha finally had a talk with Robert.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written bizarre family fiction book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great bizarre family movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Author House; author; hardcover book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Jeremy Whitehouse (Martha’s boss, attorney), Robinson Cahill (husband, writer), Robert Cahill (19, son) & his girlfriend had a great time dinner/wine.
Jeremy had quite a few glasses of wine & was getting quite talkative.
He happened to mention his valuable coin collection.
It seems it came up missing.
Robinson & Martha found something in Robert’s room.
It could lead to serious legal issues.
1-day, a knock at the front door, Officer Rudy Gonzales & Officer Eddie Yang (partner) introduced their self to Robinson.
That night Robinson goes to bed & falls into a dream of old Dodge City & Matt Dillion.
The dreams & episodes continue (Peru; Vietnam; Spaceship; Mars).
Robinson & Martha finally had a talk with Robert.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written bizarre family fiction book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great bizarre family movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Author House; author; hardcover book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
February 20, 2020
Our dreams--and perhaps even more strongly, our nightmares--may be whimsical, wacky, weird flights of imagination that perplex or disturb us and then are soon forgotten. However, sometimes they provide insight into our deepest thoughts, often propelling us into eye-opening self-realizations. Robinson Cahill, the protagonist of author Mark Lages' "Robinson's Dream", faces such a situation during a fitful night's sleep after discovering that his teenaged son, Robert, has committed a serious crime. As a young child, Robert showed every sign of becoming a charming con man and petty thief, but now his larceny had advanced to a new level--stealing from his own mother's employer. Robinson and his wife are in a quandary trying to decide how to deal with their son's criminal behavior, and Robinson's doubts and fears trigger his epic, kaleidoscopic mental journey during one long night. When dawn breaks, will he remember his passage through his own psyche, and will he have the answers he seeks? Author Mark Lages' unique voice as a storyteller always provides an interesting and entertaining reading experience.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
February 20, 2020
Another down-to-earth, creative book about life issues that Mark Lages is so expert at writing.
This is about a man, Robinson Cahill, struggling with how to deal with his son, who has a big problem. The son is a thief, he steals things.
Most of the book is about a wild dream, or series of dreams, that Robinson has while Robinson is trying to figure out how to deal with his son’s latest act of thievery. The dreams head off in many different directions, with all kinds of characters (real and imaginary) appearing in these dreams.
The dilemma Robinson faces is one I assume all parents face: how to deal with a child who disappoints his or her parents. I, for one, certainly related to the feelings Robinson has towards his son.
The problem is introduced very early in the book. Slowly but surely, the solution becomes obvious, though it certainly wasn’t obvious at first to Robinson and his wife.
As usual, the author packs lots of wisdom and just as much humor, into this story. I enjoy every book he writes immensely.
This is about a man, Robinson Cahill, struggling with how to deal with his son, who has a big problem. The son is a thief, he steals things.
Most of the book is about a wild dream, or series of dreams, that Robinson has while Robinson is trying to figure out how to deal with his son’s latest act of thievery. The dreams head off in many different directions, with all kinds of characters (real and imaginary) appearing in these dreams.
The dilemma Robinson faces is one I assume all parents face: how to deal with a child who disappoints his or her parents. I, for one, certainly related to the feelings Robinson has towards his son.
The problem is introduced very early in the book. Slowly but surely, the solution becomes obvious, though it certainly wasn’t obvious at first to Robinson and his wife.
As usual, the author packs lots of wisdom and just as much humor, into this story. I enjoy every book he writes immensely.
October 10, 2020
Mark Lages's books are unlike most of the myriad of books you find in a bookstore. They are definitely fiction, but they aren't full of dragons, pirates kidnapping women with large breasts, or even good guys and bad guys killing each other. They are about average people who are dealing with some problem that they may or may not caused themselves. Many seem to deal with moral issues.
In Robinson's Dream, Robinson and Martha Cahill believe that they have instilled the necessary knowledge and morals in their son so he can lead a useful productive life. When they find out he has done something completely against what they have taught him, they have no clue what to do about it. They decide to sleep on it. That night Robinson has a series of dreams. Seemingly they don't have anything to do with what his son had done, but each dream has bits of things, especially moral choices, that influence his decision as to what he is going to about what his son has done.
Mark Lages sent me this book free of charge in return for an honest review.
In Robinson's Dream, Robinson and Martha Cahill believe that they have instilled the necessary knowledge and morals in their son so he can lead a useful productive life. When they find out he has done something completely against what they have taught him, they have no clue what to do about it. They decide to sleep on it. That night Robinson has a series of dreams. Seemingly they don't have anything to do with what his son had done, but each dream has bits of things, especially moral choices, that influence his decision as to what he is going to about what his son has done.
Mark Lages sent me this book free of charge in return for an honest review.
January 23, 2021
This certainly is an interesting and different book. Robinson has one son, Robert, who we learn in chapter one has committed a serious crime. Robinson and his wife decide to sleep on it as they decide how they think it should be handled and what Robinson should say to his son the next day.
From there, the book goes into a dream sequence where Robinson is visited and has conversations with deceased relatives but also a cast of famous characters, Plato, God, Satan (to name just a few). Like dreams, a lot of it did not always make a lot of sense but the conversations were revealing and many parts of it compelling. There also are many jokes and fables told throughout which I enjoyed.
However, about halfway through I found myself trying to understand what this had to do with the son and was eager to get to the end when the 'big conversation" would take place. I found the end to be a bit rushed and what was said was what I anticipated and nothing out of the ordinary.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
From there, the book goes into a dream sequence where Robinson is visited and has conversations with deceased relatives but also a cast of famous characters, Plato, God, Satan (to name just a few). Like dreams, a lot of it did not always make a lot of sense but the conversations were revealing and many parts of it compelling. There also are many jokes and fables told throughout which I enjoyed.
However, about halfway through I found myself trying to understand what this had to do with the son and was eager to get to the end when the 'big conversation" would take place. I found the end to be a bit rushed and what was said was what I anticipated and nothing out of the ordinary.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
October 19, 2021
I like Mark Lages' writing.
I especially like the way he blends fiction and what ifs with the very real things that face normal people every day.
This book did that and a lot more.
I suspect that when he was describing the Dad in the first chapter he was drawing on his own experiences.
The Dad is a writer, writes books that he cannot describe to people because they want to put the books into some category, western, romcom,mystery, whatever. He says "I write novels about life".
And that is exactly what the author does.
This book will resonate with every parent who has tried to raise a child they don't understand, and there are many of us.
Getting parenting advice from everyone from local kidnappers to Plato, from Satan to God, in his dream world, might seem a bit extreme, but it worked.
This is a great book, but then his books are always covering topics that may seem taboo, but actually should be talked about.
I enjoyed the book, due to Mark's generosity, he mailed me a copy and I am happy to give my opinion.
I especially like the way he blends fiction and what ifs with the very real things that face normal people every day.
This book did that and a lot more.
I suspect that when he was describing the Dad in the first chapter he was drawing on his own experiences.
The Dad is a writer, writes books that he cannot describe to people because they want to put the books into some category, western, romcom,mystery, whatever. He says "I write novels about life".
And that is exactly what the author does.
This book will resonate with every parent who has tried to raise a child they don't understand, and there are many of us.
Getting parenting advice from everyone from local kidnappers to Plato, from Satan to God, in his dream world, might seem a bit extreme, but it worked.
This is a great book, but then his books are always covering topics that may seem taboo, but actually should be talked about.
I enjoyed the book, due to Mark's generosity, he mailed me a copy and I am happy to give my opinion.
February 8, 2020
Once again, Mark Lages tackles the difficulties and just of a father-son relationship in his latest novel, Robinson's Dream. In this unique novel, the protagonist, Robinson, and his wife discover that their son has stolen some valuable coins, and these distraught parents choose to wait until morning to decide what to do. For all but the final chapter, Robinson relates to the reader his dream that occurs that night.
Like any dream, Robinson's dream slips into other settings without warning and slides along unpredictable paths leading, at times, in circles. The narrator experiences dreams within dreams, trips into various times in his own life that are sweet, cringeworthy, weird, and perceptive, and bumps into people from world history and his own imagination. He hears jokes and fables along the way, and gathers bits of wisdom and fragments of insight, but will be even recognize, nevermind remember, what he has discovered about himself and life in order to help his son?
Like any dream, Robinson's dream slips into other settings without warning and slides along unpredictable paths leading, at times, in circles. The narrator experiences dreams within dreams, trips into various times in his own life that are sweet, cringeworthy, weird, and perceptive, and bumps into people from world history and his own imagination. He hears jokes and fables along the way, and gathers bits of wisdom and fragments of insight, but will be even recognize, nevermind remember, what he has discovered about himself and life in order to help his son?
March 2, 2020
This book was extremely perplexing to say the least. Granted the story was the main character and his dreams but I am going to touch base with the true story that the author is trying to portray here.
As parents how far or to what lengths would you go to in order to protect your child? Even if you are 100% sure the child is guilty.
It has been said that "even liars can tell you the truth"
The trick is knowing when they are lying to you. But if you do not ask your child about the situation at hand, how will you be able to tell why they did what they did?
So many kids are still living at home and having their parents pay their bills, tuition, expenses and other things. They are not being held accountable for anything.
When do you allow your adult children to grow up and take responsibility for their actions? What do they have to do before you cut them off?
This book makes you think about that very question.. Especially since it is occurring more these days than it used to be.
As parents how far or to what lengths would you go to in order to protect your child? Even if you are 100% sure the child is guilty.
It has been said that "even liars can tell you the truth"
The trick is knowing when they are lying to you. But if you do not ask your child about the situation at hand, how will you be able to tell why they did what they did?
So many kids are still living at home and having their parents pay their bills, tuition, expenses and other things. They are not being held accountable for anything.
When do you allow your adult children to grow up and take responsibility for their actions? What do they have to do before you cut them off?
This book makes you think about that very question.. Especially since it is occurring more these days than it used to be.
April 18, 2020
What am I? Are we really true to ourselves or just a slight image shy of the real thing? Beliefs are questioned when Robinson discovers his son may have been a thief and the victim was his wife's employer. Facing the certainty that the theft has already been discovered and justice will upend all their "values, beliefs, and security" Robinson knows they will be forced to choose which path to tread and why? A terrifying night of haunting hallucinations? Are they real and which one is truly the right memory? Conversations and playback of his life focus on the surreal but possibly correct happenings. Very good depictions of nightmarish dreams without endings or true madness held just below consciousness. This was a free book and I have no connection to anything. Mark Lages has proved himself to be a weaver of mental tracery held below our real world and plucks the strings of our songs for unforgettable melodies. (less)
April 1, 2020
Robinson’s Dream by Mark Lages is about a family of Robinson his wife Martha and their nineteen-year-old son, Robert. Martha discovers her bosses valuable coin collection in Robert's closet, after telling Robinson they decide to sleep on the matter. They want Robert to understand the consequences of stealing, but they are terrified that having him arrested would mess up their son’s future with a record of theft. Robinson goes to sleep, and his mind is working overtime. Robinson's past begins to appear to him in his dream. He is different ages throughout the dream with a constant change of his environment. This story will take you through happy times, sadness, and moments of thought and insight. As you read you are asking yourself “what would I do?” I recommend this book to anyone that loves a great story by a wonderful storyteller.
May 28, 2020
I'm quite fond of the familial relationships Lages explores in his various books, and this book was no exception! The way the reader gets to explore the psyche of both the father and the son is more telling of their relationship than either character could possibly realize. So in that regard, this was a great book to get out of my own head and see another perspective for a few hours. However, I got a little too into the father's head; all the dreams left me dazed and dizzy, as if I had been turning while I read. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the ups and downs, grandfather chess games, and psychiatrist visits that Robinson shuttled between. My favorite thing about the book is the father's startling clarity with his son that he can only achieve in his dreams. Robert thinks that his father doesn't pay attention to him, but he's in for a surprise...
June 8, 2020
This is my 2nd free Mark Lages book and it did not disappoint in the least. Mark is an incredible story teller and you get so involved with the story line. This is a story of parents(Robinson & Martha) having to deal with a difficult dilemma that their son(Robert) has put them all in. The parent's discovery( without the son's knowledge) is a perplexing decision making problem that needs to be dealt with by morning. The parents decide to sleep on it and approach Robert in the morning. As Robinson falls asleep that night the reader is taken through his dreams with incredible characters. These characters tell fables, jokes and bring Robinson through many memories in his past. This is a feel good, very entertaining book. It also pulls on your heart strings occasionally. I can't wait to read another book from Mark!
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