Stephen Marriott

A quick read, this novella is packed with depth and it will take some reflection time to digest all of the implications of this wonderful story. It is a story about a young man who is seeking his calling in life and doesn’t recognize that at least part of the search is spiritual as well as physical. Reluctant to set out on the quest to find himself and his dreams, he is pushed into the journey by his father, but he soon discovers help along the way as he follows a pilgrimage path to a shrine. He follows the pilgrimage path because believes he is seeking a girl who stole from him, but in reality he is seeking much more. Several encounters direct his quest. One such encounter is with an observant shepherd who hints to him, “It is always the same damn sheep that never wants to stay with the flock.” And another stranger offers insight as well as he is encouraged not to be afraid to share his dreams because he will never realize them unless he commits to them. These "chance" encounters bring him to the point of discovery and a deeper understanding of his world, his father, and himself. The story is well written and thought provoking and at the same time both engaging and a celebration of life. There is something spiritual about it as well, and even a bit of the supernatural. There is still some unpacking of the story foe me to do, but it was well worth the read.… (mais)

"Candyfloss Guitar is a story about taking the first steps on a journey towards shrouded dreams and searching for meaning."

Eduardo is a candyfloss seller who laments the death of his wife and despairs that his son, Diego, will ever make anything of himself. When he hears Diego playing guitar in a bar he offers him a choice - go to work on a farm or make something from his dream of creating music. Eduardo gives his son his guitar and sets him on his way. Through a chance meeting Diego's footsteps take him on the Camino de Santiago (The Way of St James), a major Christian pilgrimage route. Of course the journey changes him through the people he meets.

This book can be read in an hour or so, it has a very engaging style and a cast of very memorable characters. Well worth checking out. I'd like to read more by Marriott.

Overall - It's a short book with a big heart.… (mais)