Allen LeviTheo of Golden

A few days after completing my first delicious read of Theo of Golden, I began my second read. The story is captivating. The beauty of Allen Levi’s written word artistry, the compelling story, and the interesting, inspiring character of Theo and so many others all compel me back for a second read. As a psychotherapist who believes that the power of seeing and being seen is the most salient aspect of healing, I found such delight in Theo's gift and the transformations it invited in others. Simply put, Theo of Golden delights me and inspires me to be a better person. And, it encourages me to keep love & hope alive in this world that is so fractured! Borrowing words from the novel, this is "art lovingly done". It is both salty and savory and ultimately it bestows us with a “crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." Theo of Golden is truly a very good read.

When I was only about twenty-five pages or so into Theo Of Golden, I said to myself, "this will be one of those rare books that will settle in my soul and make me think". A few days later when I had finished this remarkable story, I knew that it needed some time--like water is purified as it trickles through rock and sand into the aquifer of my soul--to filter and settle before I could write something helpful and meaningful to share with other prospective readers.The premise of the book is fairly simple: an old man named Theo shows up in a small Georgia town and, somewhat mysteriously, begins spreading his unique brand of kindness to the townspeople who are there: the husband-and-wife owners of the craft coffee bar he frequents; the assistant DA and his wife; the boisterous and irreverent purveyor of used books who unabashedly hawks his wares on the street for fear that his shop might close if people don't buy a book; the homeless woman whom the town has largely ignored, but whose troubled heart is quieted and comforted by Theo's kindness; the young music student with a remarkable talent; and the town's artist who has drawn the intricate portraits that hang in the coffee bar and which instantly fascinate Theo upon his first visit.It is those portraits that serve as the vehicle that pushes the narrative to its soul-stirring conclusion, as Theo decides to purchase the images one by one--and then three or four at a time--to give to their rightful "owners". The bestowals become much more than the presentation of a gift; the real gift the recipients feel is their encounter with this remarkable man who showers them with genuine kindness and generosity, allowing them to see themselves in a new and elevated light.In our beloved but divided nation, Theo Of Golden quietly but relentlessly presents a different code of conduct for all of us: the intentional sprinkling of small but surprisingly thoughtful kindnesses--to our friends and families for sure, but also to those total strangers who carry heavy burdens often tinged by guilt and regret and bitterness.The book's end also contains a rarity--a twist ending inside a twist ending inside a third and powerful twist ending. It surprises, delights, and stirs the reader's heart in such an unexpected way.If you're considering whether Theo Of Golden will be your next read, I heartily encourage you to buy the book, settle down with it and a cup of hot tea, and revel in the joy and wonder of what will surely be a rich and memorable experience.

I found this book riveting, I could not put it down. I fell in love with the characters who he made come alive. There were so many life lessons to ponder, I will be thinking on this book for a long time. What a model for how to live a satisfying life. If I could give it 10 stars I would. It will be a book I will be gifting to others. Also love the cover of the book. In my estimation Levi has written a masterpiece!

I love books that make you sit and think and ponder beauty. Whether it was the bike ride that Theo took with Ellen or the most attentive and lovely birthday dinner with Tony or maybe Simone’s recital - all inspired, loveliness and beauty. Attentiveness, intentional, living, kindness - such great themes in this book! Theo will be with me for a long time. The characters in this book were so beautifully developed.

I just finished reading Theo of Golden and feel as though I’ve returned from a beautiful journey to a place my heart has always longed to find. The story is tender and thoughtfully written — I couldn’t put it down.Allen Levi reveals pieces of Theo’s life gradually, inviting the reader into a quiet, meaningful connection with the character. The final revelation is heartbreaking in the best, most human way.This isn’t just a story — it’s an experience that will stay with me for a long time.

Excellent novel... well written and heart warming storyline. Book was received post hasteand would receive 5 stars but the paperback was very overpriced in comparison to otherAmazon book purchases.

As an artist myself, I was aware that the author had the exceptional awareness of his surrounding that have resulted in beautiful description throughout the narrative of the book. I loved the surprise at the end and am reading it again and picking up the hints along the read. I’m looking forward to the sequel.

This is a book that I cannot quit thinking about! I love to read and very few books have had me thinking about the characters and stories months after I have finished the book like “Theo of Golden” has. The characters and scenery are so well described that they are vividly stretched in your mind. This is a feel good book that makes you want to go out and do acts of kindnesses of your own. Mr. Levi ends the book with that challenge. This author is spreading kindness in this hateful world we are experiencing.