5 Star Review
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Editorial Book Review:
By Marcos Buttler
The profound and emotionally impactful experience of reading Dancing with Panthers lingered with me long after I turned the final page. With brave leaps into the journey of self-discovery of a young person in 1960s northern England, the story examines themes of identity, societal pressure, and resilience in the face of tremendous adversity. The book's direct honesty with regard to such forbidden topics really caught me by surprise. It vividly depicts the difficulties and the quiet triumphs that molded the protagonist's life, not holding back when depicting the hard reality of the time.
The way this book balanced the gloom with times of hope and humanity was what drew in me. Although the writing is uncompromising, it is sympathetic and helps one to relate to the feelings and events on the page. The narrative's vulnerability makes you feel as though you are accompanying the protagonist in sharing their hardships, worries, and brief moments of delight. The book doesn’t just tell a story—it invites you to reflect on how far society has come and how far we still need to go in terms of acceptance and understanding.
The 1960s setting is richly detailed, creating a world that feels both nostalgic and oppressive. The protagonist's decisions appeared heavy because you accurately described societal conventions, unwritten laws, and the repercussions of breaking them. Being yourself in a world that does not always encourage it can be challenging, but this story will remind you of both the power of courage and the cost of doing so.
By the end, I was reflecting on the story's many layers—the strength required to negotiate such a journey, the necessity of connecting and supporting others, and the consequence of living truly, even when it feels impossible. Dancing with Panthers is more than just a novel; it is a profound reminder of the challenges and achievements that define the human experience. It's thought-provoking, emotive, and extremely contemporary, although reflecting on a certain age. I finished this book feeling both heartbroken and hopeful, grateful for the insights it provided and inspired by its unrelenting honesty.
About the Author
Patrick C. Notchtree
Patrick Notchtree is the author of six published books, firmly establishing himself as a writer. Born in 1946, Patrick is a member of the so-called "golden generation"—those born just after the Second World War—who have lived through a time of increasing prosperity and advancements in social and health care. Despite the ever-present threat of nuclear war during his formative years, Patrick reflects on his life with resilience and gratitude.
From an early age, Patrick recognized his sexuality, though it was a difficult time for self-expression, as being gay was both illegal and socially stigmatized. Suppressing his true self led to significant personal challenges, but he has since seen and embraced the progress society has made. Today, he lives with his wife in the north of England, surrounded by family.
Patrick is also autistic (commonly described as "high functioning") and is navigating the challenges of losing his sight due to macular degeneration. Despite these obstacles, he continues to share his experiences and insights through his books and other writings. His memoir delves deeper into his life, offering readers a candid and heartfelt look at his journey.
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