Gordon's Porch


Fiction - Literary
63 Pages
Reviewed on 11/02/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

In Gordon's Porch by David R. Beshears, Carol worries about her father Gordon’s ability to live alone as he ages, following the death of her mother, and suggests he move to a senior facility. He insists on staying in his familiar neighborhood. Gordon returns to his routines with friends James and Annie on his porch, where they discuss memories, aging, and the changes in their lives. They express concern over their neighbor, Miss McCarthy, whose health is declining, leading Annie to list herself as Miss McCarthy’s next of kin, leaning into the family-like bonds among them. Carol contemplates moving back to the neighborhood to support Gordon, offering companionship while respecting his independence. As Carol prepares to return, Gordon and his friends find solace in their close-knit community, even considering new experiences together.

Gordon's Porch by David R. Beshears is a contemplative look at aging, loss, and the bonds of friendship in a uniquely close-knit community. The author's writing is simple and straightforward, comfortably bringing readers into the tranquil rhythm of Gordon's daily life. The story as a whole unfurls at a deliberately steady pace, allowing readers to fully know the characters and the subtle beauty of seemingly mundane interactions. The book does not actually have a discernable plot outside the question of whether Carol will move to be with her father, but its strength lies in the focus on relationships and personal reflections rather than traditional plot points. Overall, this is a heartfelt look at how love and companionship endure even in the face of loss, old age, and the passage of time. Recommended.