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The impetus for writing this novel entitled “The Talisman”, was a deep interest in Native Americans, their plight, achievements, stories, and embrace of nature. Bob researched Native Americans, and due to his similar interest with nature and love of the Northwest, decided to focus on the Inuit culture and the regions of Alaska, and British Columbia, Canada. So much is misunderstood about Native Americans and their past. Novels seldom enamor their cultures and beliefs. The goal for this novel was different. As Bob immersed himself in both the Inuit culture and nature, the past would be integral to the plot.
He completed “The Talisman” with the intent to illustrate how very much the past influences the future, by developing both the characters and plot, and to strive to more deeply address key themes, and weave symbolism throughout the novel.
Robert L. Kasprzycki has an eclectic background. He worked in corporations, higher education, non-profits and the military in two different career paths, industrial design and instructional design. However, he is highly creative and today he is a fine artist and writer. Bob attended Syracuse University and graduated with three degrees: a Bachelors in Industrial Design, a Master of Science in Instructional Design, and a MBA in Marketing. He also served as a Major in the United States Army Reserves.
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
The Talisman by R. L. Kasprzycki is the story of a family who tries to navigate their tumultuous lives after the matriarch of the family makes a fateful decision. The Eagleton family is both very proud of their family and an ancient gift called the talisman. This family heirloom is treasured and revered by John Eagleton and he believes they should not let anyone else know about its presence. However, Marie Eagleton has a different perspective. So, when the time comes for their sons Chris and Mitch to pursue higher education, she decides to negotiate its sale to fund her sons’ college educations. However, this turns out to be a very poor decision. Soon a serious of chaotic events start happening to the family and the people around them. Are their troubles all because of the talisman? Or is there an actual explanation behind their recent misfortunes?
This is a delicate topic and the author treats it very respectfully. There is a lot of research and hard work involved in the writing of The Talisman. The plot relies heavily on the Inuit myths and belief system and the author manages it exceptionally well. The descriptions are vivid and easy to imagine. Connecting with the characters and investing in the story is incredibly easy as well. R. L. Kasprzycki’s ability to bring readers right into the middle of the Eagleton family and make them a part of the story is laudable. I love how the author introduces each character and adds a unique touch. The setting, the mood, and the overall ambiance of the scenes change with every new character. I especially enjoyed Aika’s entrance. He plays a significant role in Mitch’s life and you can tell by the way he is introduced. Marie is a complicated character. She is foremost a mother, so I hardly blame her for what happens to her family. The ending is surprising yet very fitting. I am in awe of the author’s ability to flawlessly weave complicated concepts into the story and make them so simple to understand. A powerful narrative and very entertaining. This exceptionally good story demands your attention!
