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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
In Onward: A Life on a Sailboat, Mark Tedesco crafts a captivating narrative about Jovanny, a man who turns to the open seas after a personal tragedy in search of solace and understanding. From the picturesque coastlines of Amalfi and Santorini to the historic depths of the Nile, each destination is vividly portrayed. The journey extends beyond physical locations; it explores the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, along with the peaceful atmosphere of a monastery in southern France. Tedesco's descriptions are so rich and evocative that they almost serve as a travelogue, adding cultural and geographical richness to the narrative.
Jovanny is well-developed and experiences significant growth throughout the novel. His journey from grief to a renewed sense of purpose highlights his evolving understanding of himself and his role in the world. The secondary characters he encounters along the way are also crucial, each offering unique perspectives and wisdom that shape Jovanny’s journey transformation. At first glance, the novel could be mistaken for a tale of the sea; however, the themes of self-discovery and healing are central to the narrative. The story explores how physical journeys mirror internal ones and how new environments and experiences can lead to personal growth and understanding. The sailboat is a powerful symbol in the novel, representing freedom and escape. Each destination’s symbolic meaning contributes to Jovanny’s understanding of life and recovery from his past wounds. Mark Tedesco delivers an engaging read as Onward is an invitation to break away from familiar routines and venture into uncharted waters.
