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Theo and Sprout: A Journey of Growth by Joseph Gergen
Sprout says she’s there to help him, to guide him. Theo, an introverted, teenage boy from a large family, is not so sure about that. He’s not sure about much of anything at the moment. You see, Theo is thrown into absolute uncertainty one morning after he has showered for school when Sprout suddenly manifests herself physically in his body.
Is she a dream? A hallucination? That is what Theo grapples with as he not only sees Sprout in the mirror, then validates what he’s seen by looking down at his body, now her body, but also begins a conversation with her about what the hell is going on.
While Theo longs for some guidance through the perils of adolescence, the guidance he knew his family wouldn’t give him, he isn’t prepared for Sprout to present herself and offer it to him. In fact, he doesn’t appear to have a choice since Sprout, sassy and confident about her presence, won’t go away.
Thus begin the adventures of Theo and Sprout. Sprout comes and goes as she pleases, forcing Theo to come to grips with her existence, the fear of being caught, the guidance she offers and the choices she asks hm to make. Together Theo and Sprout must navigate the uneasy situations Sprout creates by appearing at inopportune times, whether in school, at church, or at a family gathering.
Sprout just wants Theo to grow. Theo just wants to survive.
Book review:
Theo and Sprout by Joseph Gergen is an extraordinary book that will make you think and feasibly turn life as you’ve always thought about it upside down. Undressing gender stereotypes in favor of finding what one truly wants and needs is the theme in this timely Young Adult book.
As Theo, a fifteen-year-old boy on the cusp of adolescence, explores his own inner life and contemplates his body, Sprout suddenly appears to offer her own version of events. Sprout is the older, wiser (think: therapist) version of an invisible friend. She offers comfort, courage, and conviction to a socially awkward, aloof teen.
Joseph Gergen has clearly done his research. He is brilliant and clever writer as he effectively and skillfully takes on a distinctively female and male voice simultaneously. Each character’s story line, arc, and personality are well thought out and nuanced. This book is very intriguing, different and unique in its approach to growing up and finding our own path. The topics broached in Theo and Sprout are interesting, important and timely; I believe they will have an impact on any teenager or adult who reads this. There are several significant ideas in this story that many, including myself, need to hear and I think we all benefit from the reminders written into this remarkable plot. Sprout’s character especially shines through and will make every reader want to go out into the world in a bold, new way.
Instead of shutting down when you feel fear, Sprout wants you to push back, to take a stand. Be you and let go. Theo and Sprout is the reminder that we all need—to feel fear and to act, not to feel fear and turn away. Many interactions throughout this book demonstrate the importance of showing up for those around you, standing up for what feels right, and becoming quiet enough that one can hear one’s own inner voice.
Theo and Sprout by Joseph Gergen is an incredible story that is meaningful, entertaining and unforgettable. Book reviewed by Rachel McMahon for CLC Books & Reviews.
Buy Theo and Sprout: A Journey of Growth by Joseph Gergen today!!
Audiobook Available at Amazon or Audible.
Available in Kindle, Paperback & Hardcover
About Joseph Gergen
Born and raised on the plains of North Dakota. Moved to Twin Cities because it’s actually warmer. Enjoy creating in whatever form it takes. I’ve pursued writing, painting, and furniture making. The enjoyment is in the doing.
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