40
By
Travis Thrasher
Forty—the
milestone that leaves your either dreading the fact that middle age has finally
arrived or embracing the new era in your life.
I
found it somewhat appropriate that I read Travis Thrasher’s book 40 over the month that I entered this
decade of my life. As I embraced the turn of age, I found myself somewhat glued
to Thrasher’s character Tyler Harrison as he journeyed toward his big 4-0. I
was also very thankful I wasn't facing Tyler’s sudden mortality.
With
only nine months to go before music producer Tyler turned forty, he starts
developing strange hallucinations. As he struggles to comprehend what is
happening to him, he meets Matthew, his guardian angel. Matthew, unfortunately,
is not the bearer of good news. Instead he tells Tyler that he has only two
hundred and fifty-six days to live. He will see his next birthday, but not a
day longer.
Matthew
takes Tyler on a journey through his past, showing him events in his life where
he could have died had Matthew not been there to prevent it. When Matthew
refuses to give Tyler any straight answers, Tyler sends him away and continues
his downward spiral into hopelessness and despair.
As
his personal D-day approaches, Tyler meets DJ Ellis and Pastor Will, two polar
opposites who both intrigue and unsettle him. Ellis takes Tyler on a fast and
furious journey of immorality and temptations, while Pastor Will tries to help Tyler
sort through his confusion and fears.
Thrasher
did a fantastic job with characterizations especially Tyler’s, who was very
dark, gritty, and complex. However, I do have to issue a bad language warning
for those who prefer not to read it in a book.
Musical
references played a big part in the story, with each chapter also named after a
song title. While the references helped solidify Tyler’s character, I didn't always get them and found some confusing and unfamiliar, even though I was
brought up in that era.
As
with all good suspense novels, a twist is inevitable. 40 is no different and Thrasher managed to take me by surprise with
its excellent execution and thought provoking implications.
Written
in first person narrative, 40 is very
dark and highly introspective. I have to admit, I struggled at times to finish
the book and I still can’t decide if I loved it or hated it. One thing is for
sure, 40 is not a book you will
forget in a hurry.
