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One Night in a Thousand Years
A young adult coming-of-age story for fans of “Dead Poets Society”
Senior year was supposed to be the time of Colt's life, but when he meets Lucas Oliver, a college-aged vagabond with a mysterious past, Colt's life takes an unexpected turn.
Lucas mentors Colt and a group of eleven other senior guys, guiding them through a series of rites of passage over the course of the year. Together, they meet each Sunday night around a barrel fire in the local church parking lot to talk about life and read their journal entries aloud beneath the stars.
As Colt and the group of young men explore the wonders, romance, and adventures of their senior year, they are confronted with an event that challenges everything they hold true. If you enjoyed the classic coming-of-age movie, "Dead Poets Society," or the book, "The Sun Is Also A Star," by Nicola Yoon, you'll also enjoy this nostalgic story about being invited into the adventure of life.
Senior year was supposed to be the time of Colt's life, but when he meets Lucas Oliver, a college-aged vagabond with a mysterious past, Colt's life takes an unexpected turn.
Lucas mentors Colt and a group of eleven other senior guys, guiding them through a series of rites of passage over the course of the year. Together, they meet each Sunday night around a barrel fire in the local church parking lot to talk about life and read their journal entries aloud beneath the stars.
As Colt and the group of young men explore the wonders, romance, and adventures of their senior year, they are confronted with an event that challenges everything they hold true. If you enjoyed the classic coming-of-age movie, "Dead Poets Society," or the book, "The Sun Is Also A Star," by Nicola Yoon, you'll also enjoy this nostalgic story about being invited into the adventure of life.
212 pages, Paperback
Published January 9, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
January 22, 2024
Dead Poet’s Society meets Friday Night Lights.
This was a totally engrossing read, with a believably introspective and likable teenage boy narrator. It was about a high school senior who reluctantly joins a church youth group with a leader who completely goes off script and creates a forum for the young men to lean out of the toxic masculine narratives they think are expected of them and strive to find the best versions of themselves instead.
I haven’t read so many books about/for this audience and it was especially moving to learn in the author’s note that he had a similar experience as a youth - and how it inspired him to want to write stories and touch other people’s lives in this way. It makes the whole book feel like a “pay it forward” in the best way. So few teens have access to a space like this in real life, but maybe some can find it in this book.
I like how the enigmatic youth group leader was just bossy and mysterious enough to push the high school seniors to take an honest look at what they value and want to do with their lives and creates a safe space for them to write about and share their emotions, look at and change how they show up in their peer relationships, dream about for where they might want to travel, search for what mark they might want to make on the world.
I found it to be a well-crafted and well-narrated book and was almost disappointed that it provided so much detail in the final chapter and epilogue to tie aspects of the story up, happily ever after. I think it would have been more fitting and more powerful to leave them open ended as he set off into the world. What was important was that he said what he needed to say and accepted that he can only control only his own choices, not what ultimately happens.
The audiobook narrator was perfect for this story - it almost sounded like he was speaking in a low voice, steadily and honestly confiding in the reader or even reading straight from his journal.
Thanks to NetGalley for access to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was a totally engrossing read, with a believably introspective and likable teenage boy narrator. It was about a high school senior who reluctantly joins a church youth group with a leader who completely goes off script and creates a forum for the young men to lean out of the toxic masculine narratives they think are expected of them and strive to find the best versions of themselves instead.
I haven’t read so many books about/for this audience and it was especially moving to learn in the author’s note that he had a similar experience as a youth - and how it inspired him to want to write stories and touch other people’s lives in this way. It makes the whole book feel like a “pay it forward” in the best way. So few teens have access to a space like this in real life, but maybe some can find it in this book.
I like how the enigmatic youth group leader was just bossy and mysterious enough to push the high school seniors to take an honest look at what they value and want to do with their lives and creates a safe space for them to write about and share their emotions, look at and change how they show up in their peer relationships, dream about for where they might want to travel, search for what mark they might want to make on the world.
I found it to be a well-crafted and well-narrated book and was almost disappointed that it provided so much detail in the final chapter and epilogue to tie aspects of the story up, happily ever after. I think it would have been more fitting and more powerful to leave them open ended as he set off into the world. What was important was that he said what he needed to say and accepted that he can only control only his own choices, not what ultimately happens.
The audiobook narrator was perfect for this story - it almost sounded like he was speaking in a low voice, steadily and honestly confiding in the reader or even reading straight from his journal.
Thanks to NetGalley for access to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2024
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
James Van Der Beek did a wonderful job with the narration of this book! All the characters fit perfectly and his Texas accent makes you feel like you’re part of the story! I really connected with this writing. While the book is short, its message is powerful and I know it will stick with me for years to come! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a little inspiration or light in their life, you won’t regret reading this!
James Van Der Beek did a wonderful job with the narration of this book! All the characters fit perfectly and his Texas accent makes you feel like you’re part of the story! I really connected with this writing. While the book is short, its message is powerful and I know it will stick with me for years to come! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a little inspiration or light in their life, you won’t regret reading this!
May 31, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
“Everything you need is already inside you.”
Had some issues with narration, while I love James Vanderbeek’s voice I typically listen to all audiobooks on 1.9 or 2.0 and definitely had to slow this down a little bit to be able to understand. Not sure, but there was kind of a raspy something to his voice that did not work at my normal speed. Also kind of put me to sleep at times if I’m being honest.
Excellent concept of a mentor for a coming of age group of teen boys. Didn’t move me as much as it did others, I’m not really into poetry nor do I claim to know much about it. I did find the story interesting and enjoyed reading about Colt and the female character, Noa, which I thought was a great name.
Would I read it again? No.
Am I mad that I read it? No
Would give the book my recommendation, especially since it’s a fairly quick read.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced audio, copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
“Everything you need is already inside you.”
Had some issues with narration, while I love James Vanderbeek’s voice I typically listen to all audiobooks on 1.9 or 2.0 and definitely had to slow this down a little bit to be able to understand. Not sure, but there was kind of a raspy something to his voice that did not work at my normal speed. Also kind of put me to sleep at times if I’m being honest.
Excellent concept of a mentor for a coming of age group of teen boys. Didn’t move me as much as it did others, I’m not really into poetry nor do I claim to know much about it. I did find the story interesting and enjoyed reading about Colt and the female character, Noa, which I thought was a great name.
Would I read it again? No.
Am I mad that I read it? No
Would give the book my recommendation, especially since it’s a fairly quick read.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced audio, copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2024
This was a Netgalley audio arc I received some months ago and finally got to listen to over the past few days. Now that I'm finished, I know why I kept putting it off... because I feared I wouldn't like it, and I didn't 🙈 there's no specific thing that made me not like it, it just didn't capture my attention at all.
January 20, 2024
This short listen really caught me unaware. The narrator texas acxent is perfect for the characters. Its a coming of age highly poeric though provoking listen. It stays with you long after the story is finished. It made me wish I was back in that period but experiencing this dialogue. Its the dialogue that gets under your skiin The story itself seemed unimportant and its the chatactets interactions that make this is a 5 star listen. Although this would appeal to anyone looking for a nostalgic poetic right of passage story i think anyone doing through it would appreciate it more. This audio i found needed to be listened to a higher volume.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator
February 26, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up. My rating reflects my feeling that this book and its subject matter were just not written with readers like me in mind.
Unfortunately I didn’t really take to this audiobook. The narration by James Van Der Beek (my main reason for picking this up) was faultless. However the story was lacking substance in my opinion. There was no plot, no stakes, nothing to keep the reader engaged. I felt my attention drifting often and I was grateful it was a quick read. I also couldn’t personally connect with the intense reflection Colt went through regarding his church and God,
Thank you BooksGoSocial Audio and Craig Cunningham for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately I didn’t really take to this audiobook. The narration by James Van Der Beek (my main reason for picking this up) was faultless. However the story was lacking substance in my opinion. There was no plot, no stakes, nothing to keep the reader engaged. I felt my attention drifting often and I was grateful it was a quick read. I also couldn’t personally connect with the intense reflection Colt went through regarding his church and God,
Thank you BooksGoSocial Audio and Craig Cunningham for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 11, 2024
Wow, this short read completely took me by surprise! Initially, I didn't expect to enjoy it as much, especially since it wasn't the typical thriller or fantasy novel I usually dive into. It turned out to be more of a real-life lesson, and discovering from the author, Craig Cunningham's Acknowledgement, that the sacred circle was real added another layer of authenticity.
Expressing how much I unexpectedly liked this book is a bit challenging; words don't quite capture it. Reading it on Kindle while simultaneously listening to the audiobook on NetGalley created an awesome experience. James Van Der Beek's narration, with his captivating speaking voice, made me emotional, allowing me to vividly imagine the entire story unfolding before me.
I didn't even realize I was teary-eyed by the time I finished the book. I ended up binge-reading it over three hours, despite it being just 207 pages. This book stirred up memories of my high school days when shyness held me back, resulting in fewer friends and being the target of bullying due to my perceived weirdness. Although college allowed me to bloom, this book made me reflect on the importance of enjoying life and exploring all its facets. It made me realize that everything one needs is already within.
A poignant quote from the book resonated deeply with me: "All of you have been gifted with breath not for selfish gain, but to do something meaningful—even remarkable—with your lives." This simple yet profound message taught me to appreciate life and not take things for granted. We all have a purpose, and sometimes, the answers are within us.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a laid-back time on the beach and wants to delve into an amazing short read packed with valuable life lessons.
Expressing how much I unexpectedly liked this book is a bit challenging; words don't quite capture it. Reading it on Kindle while simultaneously listening to the audiobook on NetGalley created an awesome experience. James Van Der Beek's narration, with his captivating speaking voice, made me emotional, allowing me to vividly imagine the entire story unfolding before me.
I didn't even realize I was teary-eyed by the time I finished the book. I ended up binge-reading it over three hours, despite it being just 207 pages. This book stirred up memories of my high school days when shyness held me back, resulting in fewer friends and being the target of bullying due to my perceived weirdness. Although college allowed me to bloom, this book made me reflect on the importance of enjoying life and exploring all its facets. It made me realize that everything one needs is already within.
A poignant quote from the book resonated deeply with me: "All of you have been gifted with breath not for selfish gain, but to do something meaningful—even remarkable—with your lives." This simple yet profound message taught me to appreciate life and not take things for granted. We all have a purpose, and sometimes, the answers are within us.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a laid-back time on the beach and wants to delve into an amazing short read packed with valuable life lessons.
February 13, 2024
I received an ALC (Advanced Listener Copy) of this audiobook from NetGalley & BooksGoSocial Audio.
4.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5🎧
I don't really have the right words to describe this story. It's heartfelt and poignant in a way I wasn't expecting. It's a coming-of-age story of a group of men just wanting more. To come together in creating a safe place for them to share their experiences and emotions without judgment. It was inspiring, to say the least.
I loved the message it gave. The fact that it was taken from the author's own personal experience adds more weight to the message.
The narration and cadence of the narrator really gave the gravity that the book's message was giving. It only added to the nuance of it all.
4.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5🎧
I don't really have the right words to describe this story. It's heartfelt and poignant in a way I wasn't expecting. It's a coming-of-age story of a group of men just wanting more. To come together in creating a safe place for them to share their experiences and emotions without judgment. It was inspiring, to say the least.
I loved the message it gave. The fact that it was taken from the author's own personal experience adds more weight to the message.
The narration and cadence of the narrator really gave the gravity that the book's message was giving. It only added to the nuance of it all.
August 12, 2024
The author refers to the book as a modern day Dead Poets Society and while listening to the audiobook I could see a slight similarity to it. Considering it is based on a true story (most likely on an incident in the author's own life), I won't comment much on the story. At under 5 hours, it was a quick book to listen to and the voice of James Van Der Beek was soothing and suited the story.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher BooksGoSocial Audio and the author Craig Cunningham for the ALC of the book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨💫
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher BooksGoSocial Audio and the author Craig Cunningham for the ALC of the book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨💫
January 17, 2024
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and BooksGoSocial Audio.
First off - picking James Van Der Beek to narrate? 10/10. If Mox from varsity blues had a spiritual awakening, this would be it.
Overall a great read about coming of age, and living life, with a little bit of found family roped it. A quick read, but provides a good amount of reflection as well. Loved Colt and the Circle’s story, and finding out it was based on Cunningham’s own experience made it even more special. Would definitely recommend, and hug your circle a little tighter!
First off - picking James Van Der Beek to narrate? 10/10. If Mox from varsity blues had a spiritual awakening, this would be it.
Overall a great read about coming of age, and living life, with a little bit of found family roped it. A quick read, but provides a good amount of reflection as well. Loved Colt and the Circle’s story, and finding out it was based on Cunningham’s own experience made it even more special. Would definitely recommend, and hug your circle a little tighter!
January 23, 2024
Part of me has no clue why I picked up One Night in a Thousand Years, but I think the cover of a colorful night sky hooked me in. And I enjoyed this short listen full of philosophies about life and purpose, all revolving on a man reflecting on the senior year of high school that changed everything for him. Colt, the protagonist, is basically lost in his life when he starts attending a church group called the circle, headed by Lucas, a young man with a mysterious past. And throughout, they bond and start to understand the meaning of life, death, and other things, which made myself think more than once. There was quite a lot of impact to just about everything in this story and that ending was crushing in more ways than one and fit perfectly. The narration by James Van Der Beek was on point and really had that reflective tone. It said a lot in it’s four hour run time than many say in many hours more. Highly recommended, especially for those that are on the cusp of adulthood.
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and Kent Studio. All opinions are my own.*
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and Kent Studio. All opinions are my own.*
January 29, 2024
This book is loosely based on a true story. It’s a heartfelt coming of age story about a group of high school boys. After breaking his foot Colt begins to wonder what is next for his life. He is a high school senior and star quarterback of the football team. He joins a guys group that meets on Sundays to share life lessons, deep thoughts, and overtime learn more about themselves. Most of the boys have many questions for life- what is next after high school, college, career. With this group Colt learns to live life to the fullest and make difficult decisions. This book is brilliantly narrated by James Van Der Beek. Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 24, 2024
Audiobook
First, I really enjoyed the narration. It felt like someone was telling me their story, as the story was written as someone would speak. I really appreciated that style for this book.
I have a thing for found family, and I think it's because I experienced it myself. I found this book extremely relatable and thought-provoking. I had a similar time in my life with a group of friends that will forever be an imprint in who I'd become as an adult. It made me think about mentors, who I was when I'd met them and who I became after their influence. It made me think of myself as a mentor, encouraging people to grow into themselves.
Really good, emotional read that I connected with.
First, I really enjoyed the narration. It felt like someone was telling me their story, as the story was written as someone would speak. I really appreciated that style for this book.
I have a thing for found family, and I think it's because I experienced it myself. I found this book extremely relatable and thought-provoking. I had a similar time in my life with a group of friends that will forever be an imprint in who I'd become as an adult. It made me think about mentors, who I was when I'd met them and who I became after their influence. It made me think of myself as a mentor, encouraging people to grow into themselves.
Really good, emotional read that I connected with.
January 30, 2024
This book surprised me! When I was browsing NetGalley for an audiobook, I jumped to request when I saw that the narrator was James Van der Beek (90s girls swoon!). Then I saw that it was supposed to have a "Dead Poet's Society" vibe, which made it even more of a book I wanted. Luckily, the publisher granted me access!
James does an incredible job as a narrator. He somehow sounded like an old soul and a senior high school Texan at the same time. He had this tone that truly felt like someone being reflective, while also skeptic and confused.
The other characters were such an oddball mix, but they fit perfectly together as a group of guys who were too cool, yet still participating in this Church "youth group". I think I wanted a little more character development for the rest of the guys. I know this was all about Colt's journey and who he was becoming or NOT becoming, but a few of the guys felt too unknown.
The author's note at the end made me love the book even more.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
James does an incredible job as a narrator. He somehow sounded like an old soul and a senior high school Texan at the same time. He had this tone that truly felt like someone being reflective, while also skeptic and confused.
The other characters were such an oddball mix, but they fit perfectly together as a group of guys who were too cool, yet still participating in this Church "youth group". I think I wanted a little more character development for the rest of the guys. I know this was all about Colt's journey and who he was becoming or NOT becoming, but a few of the guys felt too unknown.
The author's note at the end made me love the book even more.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 13, 2024
Colt is a senior in his high school, captain of the football team when he breaks something in his leg everything changes in this life. In his church group, he meets Lucas a not much older boy who is guiding a group of boys to find meaning in life.
This book started very slow, at some point I thought there was no story here, but it's a nice coming of age story. The ending is sad and beautiful. I think it would be a great read for young adults trying to figure out their life. I would recommend this book for people who love Dead Poets Society or Emerson. It has a lot of quotable quotes like "you have everything you need within you"
It does leave some questions open: Do these kids not go to college? Do they all grow up to create their own groups?
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy is exchange for my honest review.
This book started very slow, at some point I thought there was no story here, but it's a nice coming of age story. The ending is sad and beautiful. I think it would be a great read for young adults trying to figure out their life. I would recommend this book for people who love Dead Poets Society or Emerson. It has a lot of quotable quotes like "you have everything you need within you"
It does leave some questions open: Do these kids not go to college? Do they all grow up to create their own groups?
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy is exchange for my honest review.
May 29, 2024
As someone who was obsessed with Dead Poets Society a few years ago, the comparison is what initially drew me to listen to this audiobook.
However, no matter how hard I tried, this book simply didn't grab me. It was, in a word, boring. The writing style didn't resonate with me, and I didn't like all the plot revolving around the church.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, no matter how hard I tried, this book simply didn't grab me. It was, in a word, boring. The writing style didn't resonate with me, and I didn't like all the plot revolving around the church.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2024
Entertaining enough and well-paced, but hardly the new version of Dead Poets Society that it claims to be.
I’m not sure what I was hoping for from this one. Probably something more academic. Or something at all academic. Hardly Dead Poets Society territory, or really even campus fiction.
The “controversial leader” in this case is a rogue youth group instructor, vaguely tied to some non-specific church and revered by the boys who join his following because they feel he’s teaching them to think for themselves. I’m not totally certain that’s even true. And while he seems like a nice enough and well meaning guy, he definitely gives off that feel of being a misfit proselytizer rather than any sort of misunderstood genius. A stoners’ prophet, if you will.
The kids are fine, likable enough if wholly archetypal. And I truly did like the protagonist, even though everything about him is a straight out of central casting for a book like this.
The pacing is fine and the story keeps you curious enough not to abandon ship. I don’t particularly recommend it on audio unless you want to have a good laugh at James Van Der Beek making another hilariously poor attempt at a southern accent (“I don’t want your life” from Varsity Blues will haunt me forever). Fortunately said bad accent belongs to a side character here, and otherwise the narration is fine enough.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I’m not sure what I was hoping for from this one. Probably something more academic. Or something at all academic. Hardly Dead Poets Society territory, or really even campus fiction.
The “controversial leader” in this case is a rogue youth group instructor, vaguely tied to some non-specific church and revered by the boys who join his following because they feel he’s teaching them to think for themselves. I’m not totally certain that’s even true. And while he seems like a nice enough and well meaning guy, he definitely gives off that feel of being a misfit proselytizer rather than any sort of misunderstood genius. A stoners’ prophet, if you will.
The kids are fine, likable enough if wholly archetypal. And I truly did like the protagonist, even though everything about him is a straight out of central casting for a book like this.
The pacing is fine and the story keeps you curious enough not to abandon ship. I don’t particularly recommend it on audio unless you want to have a good laugh at James Van Der Beek making another hilariously poor attempt at a southern accent (“I don’t want your life” from Varsity Blues will haunt me forever). Fortunately said bad accent belongs to a side character here, and otherwise the narration is fine enough.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
February 6, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, BooksGoSocial Audio, Canowan, Craig Cunningham, and James Van Der Beek (audio narrator) for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of One Night In A Thousand Years in exchange for an honest review.
This book appears to be heavily inspired by Dead Poets Society, but also has some Catcher in the Rye vibes with the main character and his journey into adulthood.
Colt is a senior in high school. When he finds a book with annotations in it, he doesn't know that the person who filled that book is going to be the person who changes the course of his life.
Mysterious college-age Lucas becomes a mentor for Colt and some other senior boys. Lucas is shrouded in mystery, but he has an unexpected worldly experience that makes his mentoring valuable and worthwhile. Among trying to solve the mysteries surrounding Lucas, Colt and the other boys discover romance, go on adventures, and learn to trust each other with words they never thought they would share.
Colt is exploring love in his own right. A kindling romance with band geek Noa puts everything Colt values to the test. Being a senior, looking at colleges, exploring love, and being able to discuss one's feelings and the future will all have a consequence, whether good or bad, in Colt's life.
This is a short novel, but an exceptional testament to the values of human relationships, whether that is family, friend, mentor, or lover. The audio narrator nailed the role of Colt, and the novel held many references and allusions to Dead Poets Society. In my listen of the book, I also got Catcher in the Rye vibes from the novel, Colt being reminiscent of Holden Caulfield as he discovers himself and what he wants out of life.
Overall, One Night in a Thousand Years is an exceptional, focused fiction novel for a young adult audience.
This book appears to be heavily inspired by Dead Poets Society, but also has some Catcher in the Rye vibes with the main character and his journey into adulthood.
Colt is a senior in high school. When he finds a book with annotations in it, he doesn't know that the person who filled that book is going to be the person who changes the course of his life.
Mysterious college-age Lucas becomes a mentor for Colt and some other senior boys. Lucas is shrouded in mystery, but he has an unexpected worldly experience that makes his mentoring valuable and worthwhile. Among trying to solve the mysteries surrounding Lucas, Colt and the other boys discover romance, go on adventures, and learn to trust each other with words they never thought they would share.
Colt is exploring love in his own right. A kindling romance with band geek Noa puts everything Colt values to the test. Being a senior, looking at colleges, exploring love, and being able to discuss one's feelings and the future will all have a consequence, whether good or bad, in Colt's life.
This is a short novel, but an exceptional testament to the values of human relationships, whether that is family, friend, mentor, or lover. The audio narrator nailed the role of Colt, and the novel held many references and allusions to Dead Poets Society. In my listen of the book, I also got Catcher in the Rye vibes from the novel, Colt being reminiscent of Holden Caulfield as he discovers himself and what he wants out of life.
Overall, One Night in a Thousand Years is an exceptional, focused fiction novel for a young adult audience.
August 23, 2024
I devoured this one. Saw people recommend the audio version so went with that and kudos to James Van Der Beek for being a top notch reader. This story was captivating from the start. The character development was quick and the story was tight. Without giving any spoilers, I’ll just say that it was clear the author really cared about this story. It was told in a thoughtful way that held both the reality of high school emotions and the how big life feels. Definitely recommend it.
February 28, 2024
Nothing happens by accident.
Not an asteroid hitting the earth.
Not a first kiss.
Not a stranger who destroys your life.
Let me go back . . .
A little bit Dead Poets Society, a little bit Perks of Being a Wallflower, and a whole lot of growing up in one years time... What's not to love?
This book is the story of a group of boys in their senior year, and the unlikely hero who challenges them to truly live their lives, and to completely understand what that means to each of them. It's a quick read that leaves you feeling both nostalgic for the past and hopeful for the future. Do yourself a favor a pick this up. Carpe Diem!
Now that I've read it myself I'm going to have to hear this audiobook version, performed by James Van Beek! If you're as old as I am... The idea of hearing Dawson tell this story is too much to resist!
Not an asteroid hitting the earth.
Not a first kiss.
Not a stranger who destroys your life.
Let me go back . . .
A little bit Dead Poets Society, a little bit Perks of Being a Wallflower, and a whole lot of growing up in one years time... What's not to love?
This book is the story of a group of boys in their senior year, and the unlikely hero who challenges them to truly live their lives, and to completely understand what that means to each of them. It's a quick read that leaves you feeling both nostalgic for the past and hopeful for the future. Do yourself a favor a pick this up. Carpe Diem!
Now that I've read it myself I'm going to have to hear this audiobook version, performed by James Van Beek! If you're as old as I am... The idea of hearing Dawson tell this story is too much to resist!
February 3, 2024
One Night In A Thousand Years
by @craigscunningham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I initially judged this book by its beautiful cover. When I saw it was narrated by James Van Der Beek, I figured it would at least be a pleasant listening experience. And guess what, not only was it good, it was great. I was completely blown away.
Cunningham wrote a work of fiction that was so poignant & honest, I had to keep reminding myself it was fiction. I told fellow book friends & youth leaders that this book should be required reading for all high school students. It was such a true chronicle of the senior year & actually made me less worried about having a teenage boy. I was truly blown away by this book.
Like Emerson throughout the book, this would be a book you underlined throughout the years & add notes to & life lessons. Like the best journal of a humble person
by @craigscunningham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I initially judged this book by its beautiful cover. When I saw it was narrated by James Van Der Beek, I figured it would at least be a pleasant listening experience. And guess what, not only was it good, it was great. I was completely blown away.
Cunningham wrote a work of fiction that was so poignant & honest, I had to keep reminding myself it was fiction. I told fellow book friends & youth leaders that this book should be required reading for all high school students. It was such a true chronicle of the senior year & actually made me less worried about having a teenage boy. I was truly blown away by this book.
Like Emerson throughout the book, this would be a book you underlined throughout the years & add notes to & life lessons. Like the best journal of a humble person
February 6, 2024
Great coming of age story based on true events.
It’s senior year and Colt is trying to figure out the meaning of life and his purpose in it. He meets Lucas Oliver at a church gathering which becomes known as “the circle”. Lucas is a mentor and impacts the lives of all the senior boys who join his circle.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I liked how the characters changed and grew. I’m not sure I believe that a character like James really can change and grow. However, I’d like to believe that maybe it’s possible. Although it doesn’t really seem realistic, I like the fact that Colt had friends outside of his click.
It’s not very often that we meet people that impact our life so profoundly, but when we do, it’s definitely memorable. I would definitely recommend this story to others. I’d like to thank NetGalley for a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.
It’s senior year and Colt is trying to figure out the meaning of life and his purpose in it. He meets Lucas Oliver at a church gathering which becomes known as “the circle”. Lucas is a mentor and impacts the lives of all the senior boys who join his circle.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I liked how the characters changed and grew. I’m not sure I believe that a character like James really can change and grow. However, I’d like to believe that maybe it’s possible. Although it doesn’t really seem realistic, I like the fact that Colt had friends outside of his click.
It’s not very often that we meet people that impact our life so profoundly, but when we do, it’s definitely memorable. I would definitely recommend this story to others. I’d like to thank NetGalley for a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2024
I should’ve looked closer, it’s a modern day Dead Poets Society based on the author’s true events. My heart.
It was so good and very deep. To me it was very reminiscent of Jeff Zenter, whom I completely and whole heartedly adore. I will absolutely be recommending this book and
I’m going to need the physical copy for my shelf!
Can we talk about Mr. James VDB for a second? He was the PERFECT choice for this part. I’m a huge fan to start off with and to me, he gave an impeccable voice to adolescent boys on the cusp of decision everywhere. Brava! 👏🏻
It was so good and very deep. To me it was very reminiscent of Jeff Zenter, whom I completely and whole heartedly adore. I will absolutely be recommending this book and
I’m going to need the physical copy for my shelf!
Can we talk about Mr. James VDB for a second? He was the PERFECT choice for this part. I’m a huge fan to start off with and to me, he gave an impeccable voice to adolescent boys on the cusp of decision everywhere. Brava! 👏🏻
January 19, 2024
I received the audiobook from Netgalley is exchange for my honest review.
One Night in A Thousand Years follows Colt in his senior year. He starts off following his friends around doing things he's not sure he agrees with. He meets Lucas and with a band of other young men form " the circle" in a church in parking light. Lucas challenges the boys beliefs and goals.
The whole thing is moody and full of teen angst. There is a sweet touch with a bit of romance between Colt and Noa. I also appreciated the sense of humor with the stupid things teenagers do, like blowing up a can of beans.
James Vanderbeek's narration is great and really brought this coming age story to life.
One Night in A Thousand Years follows Colt in his senior year. He starts off following his friends around doing things he's not sure he agrees with. He meets Lucas and with a band of other young men form " the circle" in a church in parking light. Lucas challenges the boys beliefs and goals.
The whole thing is moody and full of teen angst. There is a sweet touch with a bit of romance between Colt and Noa. I also appreciated the sense of humor with the stupid things teenagers do, like blowing up a can of beans.
James Vanderbeek's narration is great and really brought this coming age story to life.
March 12, 2024
One Night in a Thousand Years is a beautifully written heartfelt story of young men trying to find a place in their world. Senior year of high school can be one of the happiest but most stressful and disruptive times in a young persons life. This story navigates grief, religion, trauma, and hope in a uniquely honest and vulnerable way. The narration James Van Der Beek provides adds a level of emotional connection to the story that may be missed if simply read off the page. He provides thoughtful dramatization throughout his narration and truly brings Colts voice to life. This book is a profound story of hope for those in the midst of great change in their lives.
May 6, 2023
Part memoir, part coming of age story, part mystic spirituality, Craig brilliantly takes his readers on a journey that many of us know or wish we knew well, a young person discovering who he is in this world and with God.
“God is a storm on the horizon and everybody is looking for shelter. We have names for these shelters, like school and church and friends and sports. We go into these shelters and say we are getting close to God but all we really want is to hide from the storm”
“One day this acorn is going to be born into something great, something completely new that feeds the lives of others. But first it’s going to suffer, break apart. Open up to the mysteries and complexities of creation. If you dig in the ground in 100 years from now I guarantee you won’t find an acorn that has made slight adjustments to its character. You’ll find roots. Transformation.”
“God is a storm on the horizon and everybody is looking for shelter. We have names for these shelters, like school and church and friends and sports. We go into these shelters and say we are getting close to God but all we really want is to hide from the storm”
“One day this acorn is going to be born into something great, something completely new that feeds the lives of others. But first it’s going to suffer, break apart. Open up to the mysteries and complexities of creation. If you dig in the ground in 100 years from now I guarantee you won’t find an acorn that has made slight adjustments to its character. You’ll find roots. Transformation.”
March 10, 2024
4 stars.
🥲 a wholesome “carpe diem” book that made me hopeful for the future generations. Can’t even review without spoilers but it just made my soul happy! Also always appreciate a positive slant on Christianity in a fiction book!
🥲 a wholesome “carpe diem” book that made me hopeful for the future generations. Can’t even review without spoilers but it just made my soul happy! Also always appreciate a positive slant on Christianity in a fiction book!
May 25, 2025
Craig’s ability to capture the nuances of youth, inner rebellion, passage of time and the battle within is captivating. This coming of age story is as relevant now in my late 30s as it would have been for me 2004. A must read (and then pass along) to all those going through a discovery of self.
January 23, 2024
I really loved this short book. James Van Der Beek’s narration was just nostalgic icing on the cake! I am fortunate enough to have had friends like Colt had during high school. I have mentors who really pushed me just like Colt did. Finding out that the author wrote this out of his personal experience wasn’t a surprise to me. The way Cunningham writes truly connects you to this group of young men. It’s a must read (or listen!) if you love the movie Dead Poets Society.
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