David Halperin (2)

Journal of a UFO Investigator by David Halperin is a debut novel about a boy who is forced to be a shut in because of his ill mother. Danny Shapiro tries to enrich his life through a fantasy life he has invented for himself, involving alien invasion, ancient intelligent species, men in black, and enough conspiracies to keep Fox Mulder happy.

The set up of Journal is similar to Michael Ende's The Neverending Story. One could argue that it's just the tale of a boy hiding in his school's attic reading a really awesome book. Here, then, it's a boy stuck at home apparently writing an awesome book.

And there in lies the fundamental problem with this book. The fantasy sequences are so much better than the "coming of age" part that it's always a HUGE disappointment when the story shifts gears.… (altro)

I will admit up front: I am biased.

David Halperin, the author of this book, was one of the members of the writing group I started in North Carolina ten years ago. I read two of his previous (unpublished) novels. I have a high opinion of David, and I feel a great amount of joy that he's published this novel.

That being said, this is a very good book. I love the layers, and the way he plays with time. I love the interplay of myth, and the doubt about reality. I love the very literal and intense way that Danny, the main character, grows up. There's this understanding acquired through pain, this leaving behind of loved ones, this learning to live with regret, this feeling of ineluctable otherness, that I think mirrors emotionally the way it feels to be a teenager.

Danny writes, "Here's what I think: when we watch the sky, we're looking in the wrong direction. The real mystery is right here among us."

I look forward to reading this book again.… (altro)