So far I’ve given away 17 copies.
Most notably, four to my children on Mother’s Day, with a request that they read it – at some point – as a Mother’s Day gift to me.
I saw Theo of Golden recommended on a friend’s Facebook story and immediately ordered it from Amazon. “Theo” arrived on a Sunday, and we left for Portugal on Monday. I debated whether to take this on our trip, as I was trying to pack light and had already packed my Kindle. Thank the Lord I stuck Theo in my bag.
Imagine my surprise when fictional Theo turns out to be from Portugal! His story unraveled as I traveled along the Douro River, past port wine refineries, toured the ancient landscape, and experienced the gentle Portuguese culture. It was hard to put this book down even amidst full travel days. I finished Theo on a train between Madrid and Barcelona, put my head in my hands, and tried to soften my sobs on our public transport. The beauty of Allen Levi’s story complemented by the beauty of our scenery touched my soul.
I’ve never met Allen Levi, but he sang songs for us at a Fort Worth Young Life banquet probably fifteen years ago. It was not the best setting for him. We had about a thousand people happily reuniting at Will Rogers Auditorium, talking too long and chatting too loudly. Allen’s music is for smaller groups, and his words need to be heard. But even amidst the crowds and noise, I was touched by Levi’s lyrics.
Ever since Levi’s songs have played throughout our home and in my car. His “1412 and 1420” played like an anthem while raising our four kiddos with an open-door policy for neighbors and friends. Levi gave me permission for – and actually encouraged – a crazy home full of toys, snacks and children. His upbeat music brings a smile and a punch, a reminder of what really matters.
This is why, upon seeing he’d written his first novel, I bought it within minutes and without reading a review. I’m trying not to use hyperbole here, but Theo of Golden is in my top five all-time favorite books, ever.
Gorgeous writing. I underlined sentence after sentence throughout this FICTION book.
I adore Theo. I’m reminded of a few Theos in my own life, and feel all the more grateful for their generous influence.
I dare anyone to read this story and not feel a connection.
And I dare anyone to read this book without feeling their nervous system calmed.
I don’t know about my kids, but Corbin is now reading Theo. I keep hearing him chuckle, and every now and then he reaches up to wipe a little tear.
I highly recommend this podcast to learn a little more about Levi and why he wrote this story about Theo. No spoilers, and about 45 minutes of sweet encouragement.
Thank you, Allen, for putting your heart into words. And for wrestling for what must have been hours upon hours of edits. For thoughtfully crafting characters whom many have grown to love. And for helping us soak in the most meaningful kind of love through story.