Dean Koontz

Fiction 2014 | 398 pages

The 57-year-old narrator in our story writes about his youth … mostly from age eight to age 11.  Jonah Kirk lives in the city and we learn about the events and experiences that shape his life as a pianist, a lover of art, and ultimately a songwriter.  The book introduces readers to Jonah’s complex family dynamics, his early recognition as a musical prodigy, and his encounters with various characters that deeply influence his life

But the city (New York City) is not just an ordinary city.  Mixing some magic and surrealism into this tale makes the story intriguing, entertaining, a bit unbelievable.  For “the city” is also A character whom Jonah names Miss Pearl.  Miss Pearl plays a small, but very important, role.  Jonah refers to her as his supernatural mentor.  She is “the city.”  As she comprises a tiny strand from each resident, Miss Pearl is literally the whole population of the city and provides Jonah with occasional insight and perspective.

Koontz’s writing is delicious.  He draws you in, moves forward at a good pace, shares action as well as well-developed character insight, displays significant imagination.  I borrowed this read from Brian when I ran out of books on our camping trip to the Tetons.  I would not hesitate to read another Koontz, and yes, I surely recommend this one.  You just may fall in love with Jonah.

July 2026