Kindness for Weakness
is a remarkable novel that illustrates a harsh reality the average person does
not consciously consider much. The story told here is gripping. It could easily
be read in one sitting: its relatively short length and an absolutely
enthralling story. I heavily invested in James’ endeavors; I read it in two
sittings with nearly no interruption. Kindness
for Weakness is powerful that I would read two lines and the world around
me would fade away so I was exclusively listening to James explain his struggle
to find his manhood in a hard world. I was so absorbed by the story that the
transitions to and from reading were jarring.
Of course, it is possible to get this feeling from any
really well written novel, but Kindness
for Weakness is different because (at least in my case) it was entirely new. This was startling, I didn’t think a modern,
realistic fiction novel would present deal with a topic I would find completely
foreign. I thought I would recognize the world; the culture; the struggle - but
I didn’t. That’s what makes this read so
absolutely unforgettable. It gives the average person - born into the average
middle class family, with the average knowledge of the world - a new vantage
point. Kindness for Weakness
explored something that most of us tend to experience only peripherally. It’s a
story always at the edge of our vision, but something most of us never really
think about. Who is that unwashed kid in class, and what’s his story? Why don’t
the kids who are always getting into trouble ever learn how to stay out of trouble?
The answer seems simple to most of us. It isn’t so simple for everyone.
Kindness for Weakness
focuses on a boy from an abusive home, where his father has left and his mother
has given up on life, and his journey to learn what it takes to be a man with
no guide to lead him there. The novel deals with the hardships of a young kid
just coming into adolescence, without friends or a father figure, and a main
character who doesn’t know how to conquer these fears and challenges on his own.
He does his best and he makes the usual mistakes, which Goodman no doubt
witnessed time after time, as boys like James tried to find their way on their
own.
Goodman obviously draws on his experience working in the juvenile
justice system to tell this grim tale with no restraint. The story is not
bright or cheery, nor funny or satirical. There are uplifting passages and entertaining
pieces, however it is clear that his intention was to tell the story of the kids
he has worked with over the years as honestly as possible. It is raw and
raunchy at times, because that is what is necessary to make it real. Without a
doubt, it succeeds at being real. It opened my eyes to the lives of a social
class I never have much interaction with.
After reading Kindness
for Weakness, I am a little embarrassed at my previous ignorance to this aspect
of the world. I’m glad I broadened my horizons and read this novel, since it is
different from what I’d typically read. I’d speak more about the obstacles
James faces in the novel, but, in an attempt to avoid spoilers, I feel like I
can’t reveal too much about his journey. This book is worth a read for any guy
over the age of 12 and for any adult. Goodman wrote something passionate and
full of conviction that should be on your “to read” shelf, if it’s not already.
More about the book...
Amazon Description: "In an environment where kindness equals weakness, how do those who care survive?Shawn Goodman will capture your heart with this gritty, honest, and moving story about a boy struggling to learn about friendship, brotherhood, and manhood in a society where violence is the answer to every problem.
More about the Author...
Thanks for reading, feel free to leave a comment below or tweet me with any questions!-Jacob@ParsonaG
