By Geno McGahee
SPACE IV THOMAS by Brent Allen Northup appears to be a sci-fi book on the surface, but you cannot judge a book by its cover and this is one of those cases for sure. The story is about an alien abduction of sorts but has more to do with the wisdom of those that have gone through time and have lived with regret and how a moment to look back can be really therapeutic.
Thomas Burns is up there in years and finds joy in solitude, sitting in nature, away from society. A close encounter with an unknown craft and eventual abduction brings Thomas on a great adventure through time and space and becomes the most amazing experience for a man that sincerely needed it.
The force takes Thomas through his life in a way that reminded me so much of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. The moments where Thomas decides to enjoy the moment are very good and relatable. Who wouldn’t want to go back, even temporarily, in their younger days with what they know now? This theme continues throughout the story with Thomas reliving a lot of his life but also travelling through time and learning about who he is and how everyone is connected.
You cannot read this book without being reflective yourself if you’re 50 or older. As I read this, I began thinking about my past and what I would do in this situation. This is some powerful stuff and written from a place of obvious wisdom and experience. It’s the best aspect of this book. It asks the reader “what would you do?”
This is an accomplishment by Brent Allen Northup and it was a very easy read. I enjoyed the way that it flowed and the mystery as Thomas went on his journey. The ending was also satisfying with the main character learning from the experience and applying it to his life from this point forth.
