I thought this book was like many books about, loss, love, hope, and discovery. However, when I read about Gabriel's own struggles and discoveries in his life I felt my heart go out to him. I felt bad for the losses he lived through, how horrible it would be to witness the death of your own father. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs encouragement, including a reading group guide for those that may be in book clubs. ( )

The River is a beautifully written story about love, family, facing one’s fears and forgiveness. It is also an inspirational read that teaches a powerful lesson in letting go of the past and embracing the future. Michael Neale is a gifted storyteller whose prose brings the characters and the various settings vibrantly to life. To read my review in its entirety, please click HERE. ( )

I thought this book was like many books about, loss, love, hope, and discovery. However, when I read about Gabriel's own struggles and discoveries in his life I felt my heart go out to him. I felt bad for the losses he lived through, how horrible it would be to witness the death of your own father. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs encouragement, including a reading group guide for those that may be in book clubs. ( )

The River by Michael Neale recounts the story of Gabriel Clarke, the son of a Colorado whitewater rapids guide, John. When Gabriel's father dies saving the life of a careless young man, Gabriel goes to live with his mother in Kansas and tries to avoid any thoughts of The River. But, after years pass, Gabriel hears the call of The River in his life again and eventually returns to The River in Colorado.

The River is a novel of timeless themes: love, loss, sacrifice, family, beauty, and, ultimately, forgiveness and redemption. In this inspirational narrative, The River is symbolic of God's call on a Christian's life to forgive and step forward with courage and conviction, as well as other metaphorical significance. This is a book you can read quickly and it will keep your interest.

Be sure to check out Neale's website for the book trailer and a short clip showcasing the live event. Neale is an award-winning musician and performer who composed the score for the HD film footage in the live show. After watching the clip, I have a feeling the live show would be a great multi-media experience.

I also have a feeling that the whole multi-media experience might be, in totality, more moving and riveting than the book. While the book was heartening and certainly affirmed enduring lessons, the constant references to "The River" always capitalized and named only in that way became a bit distracting. I think a case could still be made to compare God to an unnamed river without making it The River.

Highly Recommended

Disclosure: My Kindle edition was courtesy of Thomas Nelson, the publisher, and Netgalley for review purposes.
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A young boy witnesses his father's death to the wild river, after spending his first five years being taught to revere and wonder at it. Sadly, the lessons he learned at his father's hands are stored in the back of his mind. He goes to live with his mother in Kansas, and grows up troubled, yet sweet. Friendships are hard for him, and some days he retreats into his mind; a happier, quieter, more peaceful place. His life is on the track to nowhere; aimless, and lacking hope. One day a friend talks him into a camping trip, which is a turning point in his life. This is the story of personal loss and personal discovery.

I found the characters to be likeable, yet not fully developed. Knowing that past events make them tick, and getting to know them in more depth are two different things. I also know the author wanted to convey a sense of reverence toward the river itself, but I found this to be a little overblown. That said, I truly enjoyed the storyline and found myself wanting to be in the settings; those were descriptive and beautiful! ( )