My rating: 5/5
There are not enough words to express how truly amazing this story is. Riveting, heart-wrenching, and emboldening, The Long March Home by Marcus Brotherton and Tosca Lee is a superbly written novel that resonates in the heart of the reader long after the conclusion.
With a major theme of friendship as the foundation of the novel, The Long March Home, is a coming-of-age tale of four best friends, Jimmy Propfield, Hank Wright, Billy Crockett, and Claire Crockett as they navigate life in rural Mobile, Alabama during the 1930’s and early 40’s. The brotherhood of Jimmy, Hank, and Billy is essentially the heart of the story, as the novel illustrates the evolution of their inspiring friendship that began in the third grade.
The close bond of the three boys is even more exemplified by the structure of the novel, written in a dual timeline perspective, spanning the years between 1930 and 1946, including multiple locations such as Alabama, the Philippines, and Japan. The story is written in first person narrative, with the protagonist, Jimmy Propfield, as the narrator, and flashes back and forth between the early 1940’s during their time in the war, and the 1930’s during the matriculation of their childhood. The novel opens with Jimmy, Hank, and Billy six months in their active duty in Manila, Philippines. Their lives drastically change when they are alerted of the bombing of Pearl Harbor and are immediately catapulted into the throes of war. Their survival is dependent on their strong bond of friendship.
The author masterfully exhibits his talent for storytelling, which is evident in the enthralling pace of the novel, the inclusion of superb imagery, and the poignant character development. The story is skillfully engaging, allowing the reader to become utterly invested in the characters. Although the novel includes little faith content, the story includes inspiring themes of hope, love, and courage. If you intend on reading a memorable five-star story, read this book immediately!
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