Then Like The Blind Man by Freddie Owens

 

Then Like The Blind Man- Orbie's Story by Freddie Owens, is an authentic, richly detailed retro- themed work of fiction.  The setting of this tale takes the reader back to the days of the South and segregation of the 1950s.  This thematic book contains enough authentic cultural and social details that it is almost as if the reader is transported back in time.

From the cover, with its ominous gray sky looming above a lonely abandoned barn, and a run down, rusted, retro red gas station, typical 50s era fixture, as a wandering boy glances ahead at a weather beaten trail, the reader will be drawn into the past. The characters, with all of their faults and flaws,  are well developed and so lifelike that reader will almost feel like he has actually met them. The dysfunctional interactions between Orbie and his mother and step father are painful to read and not at all entertaining. All the inhuman disturbing traits of humanity are represented by characters in this story.   Despite the fact that this story is told in the first person point of view, narrated in the voice of the young hero, Orbie, this book contains some graphic, and at times, disturbing elements.  It is ironic to read the story told in a voice of a southern dialect of a young boy. It is unsettling at times to read some intense scenes from the point of view of a child.   Some readers may find the writing too intense, with its adult content and disturbing scenes detracting from the overall story.  I can imagine more modest readers might not want to read some of the more graphic scenes and adult language. The sub sections of the chapters are identified with dates as if it were a journal.  It is another attention to detail that the author uses  to create an authentic retro aura. A few selected illustrations and images are included in the beginning of selected chapters which set an ominous, shadowy world.  This story touches on many topical areas: eccentric religion, dysfunctional family relationships, crime and racial tension.  Readers of varied backgrounds, even historical enthusiasts will be drawn to Owens' eccentric fictional world.  One thing is for certain; whether you like this book or not, you will certainly form a strong opinion.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Blind Sight Publications.  This book is available for purchase at Amazon.