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Reviewed by Steve Leshin for Readers' Favorite
Once Upon a Mall by Alexander L. George is a coming-of-age novel that takes you back to when everyone went to the local shopping mall to gather, eat, and be entertained, before the internet and cell phones. William Saint, nostalgic for the past, visits the small Pennsylvania town where he grew up. He first visits the local mall, where he spent a lot of time as a kid. He remembers trying to fit in as the new boy. His parents, immigrants from Hungary, encourage young Billy to explore his new town. He meets Nate, Andy, and a girl named Jennifer. Billy, whose real first name is Bela, slowly becomes friends with them. They play in the snow, ride their bikes together, and explore the Berkshire Mall in Reading, Pennsylvania. They enjoy pizza at the food court, check out toys and games at a popular toy store, and try out the large arcade area. As time goes by, Billy and Jennifer grow closer with each school year. This complicates things for him, as he also navigates other school problems tied to his unusual family name. As things between him and Jennifer get serious, Billy learns his life is about to change.
As I read Once Upon a Mall, some childhood memories came back to me. Alexander L. George uses dialogue to develop the main characters' personalities: Billy, Jennifer, Nate, and Andy. Billy’s father, Andras, is a hoot when he talks to his son, comparing life in Hungary with life in America. Nate is funny, and Andy is the quiet one who comes out with a sharp observation at times. I was most impressed with the author's ability to capture the innermost feelings between Billy and Jennifer. His crisp writing style enhances the story. This, along with following Billy as he matures, moves the story forward. Each chapter sets the mood. What will adult William find on his return visit to the Berkshire Mall? The answer is well worth it.
