Book: Theo of Golden, A Novel
Author: Allen Levi
Reviewed by: Katie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO, Metro Atlanta Chamber
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi is a quietly powerful novel that unfolds with the grace and emotional resonance of classical music—evoking the subtle beauty of Claude Debussy or Frédéric Chopin. At its heart, the book is an intimate character study, driven by keen observation and thoughtful, understated plot development.
Set in a fictional town in Georgia, the story begins with the arrival of a mysterious older man from another country, whose presence gently unsettles and intrigues the local residents. Through this premise, Levi crafts a narrative centered on resilience, kindness, and the importance of truly seeing others by listening first. The novel serves as a reminder to treat every person with dignity and respect, acknowledging that we all come from places and histories that shape who we are.
The setting feels authentically Georgian—a rich blend of cultures, beliefs, and traditions, grounded in warmth, hospitality, and a deep sense of family, however one chooses to define it. When the story takes an unexpected turn, it leads to a reflective and sobering conclusion, leaving the reader with a poignant reminder: every minute is precious, and every human story matters.
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Each year, Global Atlanta asks influential readers and community leaders to review the most impactful book they read during the course of the year. This endeavor has continued annually since 2010.
See last year’s full list of books on BookShop here and see Global Atlanta’s full store, featuring Reader Picks lists going back to 2013 along with lists of books we’ve covered through stories or author talks.
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