Title: The Dreamer 4
Author: A. D. Plautz
Publisher: The Ewings Publishing
ISBN: 979-8-89031-567-0
Pages: 344
Genre: Fiction
Reviewed by: Amy Unger
Hollywood Book Reviews
Dreams are mysterious journeys of the mind which create vivid scenes in our subconscious. They offer glimpses into the boundless landscapes of creativity, inviting us to explore realms we often overlook while we are awake. Researchers propose that dreams aid memory consolidation, emotional processing, and problem-solving, revealing the complex cognitive processes underlying this fascinating aspect of sleep. Constructed upon these notions, The Dreamer 4 by author A. D. Plautz is a work of magical realism which portrays Robert J. Parker, a 57-year-old engineer, as its central character.
Robert (aka Bob) confronts the daunting news of a long-hidden brain tumor and his impending death in a few months. While he is sleeping, he enters a dream world where he becomes a spectator in the life of Ronald Pritchard, a college student. He is unable to influence the boy’s life but can observe everything that happens. The narrative is crafted in the third person, allowing the reader to witness the harrowing misadventures which befall upon Ron. At the same time, the story also portrays the gradual decline of Bob’s health, leaving his loved ones to grapple with the heavy burden of grief.
This surreal narrative provides an unexpected escape from reality. The story unfolds like a rollercoaster ride, with moments of intense highs and challenging lows in the characters’ lives, creating a captivating journey through their experiences. The characters are portrayed with great skill, reflecting the complexities of our real world. Their virtues and flaws are interwoven into the story, highlighting the idea that every individual possesses both positive and negative qualities. This portrayal suggests that the balance and proportion of these attributes ultimately define a person’s true essence.
The novel also offers a window into the social and economic landscape of its era. It provides insights into the prevailing gender roles that shaped individuals of that time. Despite women being employed and educated, societal expectations demanded a delicate balance between softness and strength. The significance placed on female virginity was pronounced, and although men were moving towards embracing equality, lingering misogynistic thoughts persisted. While the text is descriptive, a more streamlined approach by removing unnecessary details could enhance readability and impact.
Overall, with its blend of magical realism and poignant storytelling, The Dreamer 4 by A. D. Plautz will appeal to fans of literary fiction, magical realism, and those seeking contemplative narratives. It stands as a compelling reflection on life’s intricacies and the enigmatic nature of dreams, leaving readers contemplating the essence of existence beyond the final page.