The River

The River is a very well written book by Michael Neale. The oopening chapter catches the readers attention hook, line and sinker. THrough a tragic accident a boy loses his father and is left with a lifetime of fears and worries. The story of Gabriel Clarke and his battle with fear, fitting in and a desire to know his father follows in the next chapters. There are stories of his childhood, and we see him conquer many of his fears and find a way to live with the loss of his father. When Gabriel is around 20 years old he is invited to go on a spring break trip with oen of his steadfast friends. He accepts the invitation, but is nervous about what the trip will hold for him. On this trip he meets a girl named Tabitha who is adventerous and spunky, and begins to develop feelings for her. Little did gabriel know that this trip would change his life forever. The last chapters include a story of redemption and forgiveness when Gabriel is introduced to the man responsible for the death of his father.
The River was a beautiful story of pain, struggle and heartache; but it also told a wonderful story of redemption, forgiveness and happiness. I would recommend this book to anyone. An engaging story that Neale wrote in a way that made you feel like you were connected with Gabriel. The emotion of the story felt as if they were my own. I would rate The River 5 out of 5.