5 Star Review
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Editorial Book Review:
By Solange Roe
In Ponder, Daniel Roberts explores friendship, love, and self-discovery in a darkly comic way. The most improbable of locations—Disney World—is the scene for a novel. The plot revolves around the relationship between two men: a charming but flawed millionaire and his beer-loving, grounded best friend. Every year, the boys go to the "happiest place on Earth." This heartwarming and hilarious story is perfectly set against the backdrop of the park's immaculate whimsy and the chaotic realities of their life.
What truly captivated me was the way Roberts brings out the complexities of friendship and loyalty in a story that could easily have been a simple comedy. Throughout the friendship between the two main characters, there are rich, real-feeling moments of sensitivity and tension. Following the arrival of Virginia, a free-spirited Southern Belle, their dynamic becomes chaotic, leading to the development of a humorous, envious, and unexpectedly complex love triangle. The exchanges between these three individuals are not only poignant but also humorous, and each of them reveals fresh layers of complexity beyond what was previously known.
The Disney World setting is more than just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right, juxtaposing fantasy with reality. Deep emotional tensions surface among the roller coasters and fairy-tale castles, producing a clear and arresting juxtaposition. Roberts takes advantage of this environment to heighten the strangeness and suspense of the narrative by letting the surreal character of the park serve Laugh-out-loud antics one minute, then quiet, thought-provoking sequences mixed in with mayhem and introspection.
What distinguishes Ponder from other buddy comedies is its openness to address serious issues such as sorrow, love, and self-perception. The combination of sharp wit, brilliant writing, and poignant moments makes it a memorable read. This is more than just a story about two friends on an unusual journey; it's a story about growth, the intricacies of relationships, and the messy beauty of human connections. Whether you’re drawn to the absurdity of its premise or the depth of its character work, this book delivers an unforgettable ride, much like its Disney World setting. Fans of dark humor and character-driven stories will find much to love in this smart, entertaining novel.
About the Author
Daniel Roberts
Daniel Roberts is a native New Yorker who attended the University of Pennsylvania, where the seeds were planted for his debut novel, Bar Maid. Roberts is the author of the plays Haunted House, which the New York Times called “Sparklingly original with characters that stick,” and Brando, of which Time Out New York wrote: “An impressive piece of writing, recalling Edward Albee or John Guare.” He lives in New York City with his wife and daughter.
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