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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
After Woodstock by Howard Reiss is an exploration of friendship, love, and the philosophical journey of life. The novel follows the lives of two childhood friends, Ryan and Jack, whose paths diverge dramatically after the Woodstock concert. Ryan becomes a successful corporate lawyer, while Jack, inspired by the counterculture movement and his cosmic connection with Astra, embraces a simpler, unconventional life in the Catskills. Through decades of letters, the story explores their contrasting worldviews, offering a tapestry of memories, regrets, and reflections. Reiss masterfully captures the essence of time as both fleeting and eternal, weaving themes of circularity, cosmic connection, and the search for meaning. Jack’s unwavering belief in the cyclical nature of life and his embrace of Buddhist philosophy provide a stark contrast to Ryan’s linear pursuit of success and material wealth.
Jack’s letters are filled with wisdom and poetic musings, while Ryan’s responses reveal his struggle to reconcile his pragmatic mindset with Jack’s spiritual insights. Their friendship, though strained by time and distance, is bonded by their shared history. Howard Reiss also paints a vivid picture of the Woodstock era and its impact on those who experienced it, highlighting the power of love, music, and rebellion. The story juxtaposes the nostalgic and the forward-looking, offering a meditation on the inevitability of change and the importance of living in the moment. After Woodstock is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that will connect with readers seeking a deeper understanding of life’s purpose. It’s a reflection on the choices we make, and that no matter what path we take, friendships stay on course. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
