Title: Little Toy Car: A Psychological Coming-of-Age Story
Author: Gabe Oliver
Publisher: Gabe Oliver
ISBN: 9798987018002
Pages: 379
Genre: Novel / Fiction
Reviewed by: Carol Davala
Hollywood Book Reviews
Gabe Oliver’s Little Toy Car is an engaging coming-of-age story that follows a young boy’s life and struggles from childhood into adulthood. In the aftermath of a minor incident, reflections and lessons become intertwined in the consequences of his experiences.
Five year-old Gene is living on the outskirts of Denver with his mother. Coaxed by an older friend, he steals a model car and ultimately his mother must use the rent money to pay his debt and keep the theft from going on a police record. Though they lose their home and are forced to live in their car, clearly Gene develops fond memories of this bonding time spent with his mom. When his mother re-marries, Gene soon realizes that life with this new stepfather comes with both its perks and downsides. When Gene dares to question the Bible-thumping alcoholic, he suffers the abusive man’s wrath. Through an imaginative use of dream states and actual events, Oliver reveals Gene’s inner rage and powerful rise over this parental tyrant, and later over dictatorial employers.
Unexpected contact from his biological father has Gene soon discovering the reasons his dad hadn’t been around. From music and drugs, to drinking and accidents which led to a stint in prison, readers will glimpse similarities between these father and son characters. Yet, Gene is clearly determined to break free and follow his own path.
The story advances in circular links relative to the Little Toy Car title. From the early Volvo station wagon that became his home with his mom, to a truck accident with his uncle, then another with his girlfriend, and a later gift of a newer car, Gene often ponders the what ifs and significance of that early childhood event.
In an effort to seek out his own destiny, Gene heads to California hoping to expand his musical interests. Here the narrative entertains themes of cult-like religion, toxic relationships, sexual assault, and infidelity. Travels to Maui eventually lead to an unexpected encounter with Caro, a young woman who brings Gene closer to finding solace and connection. Caro helps Gene realize life isn’t necessarily about making constant choices. “Life is full of little insignificant moments that carry no purpose at all, They are often beautiful moments, …” seems a pivotal comment for Gene to consider in breaking ties with the “little car” incident and his tendency to connect it with all the negative happenings throughout his life.
Oliver laces this story with life lessons, particularly those offered up by Gabe’s ailing uncle who stresses the importance of enjoying the moment rather than wasting time on the past and “chasing the wrong things.” Taking the man’s advice to heart represents a new start for Gabe and an opportunity to leave the past behind.
As Gene struggles to find love and a sense of self, he proves to be a determined and resilient character. Like many coming-of-age stories, the quest for meaning in life and trying to find one’s place in the world becomes a relatable journey for the reader. This multi-faceted narrative chronicled from Gene’s point of view reveals a well-crafted, character-driven novel, exploring the unique premise of how a single unfortunate incident can impact a child’s life for years to come. This is truly a thought-provoking contemplation.