"The Cross Gardener" Review

The Cross Gardener

By Jason F. Wright

7/10

My Synopsis:

The Cross Gardener by Jason F. Wright is the story of John Bevan.  Throughout his life, John has experienced much loss.  Many of the people he loves have passed on.  One day while visiting a roadside memorial he has built for some of his lost loved ones, he encounters a stranger.  This unfamiliar man is caring for the white crosses that are John’s memorial.  When asked who he is, his reply is simple – The Cross Gardener.  Their paths continue to intersect as John deals daily with his grieving and his questions about life and death. 

Who is this strange man with no name? 

Why is he tending John’s crosses?

What impact will he have on John’s life?

My Opinion:

The Cross Gardener is the sad tale of loss and its effect on individuals.  The character of John is a very likable character who slowly morphs into something almost unrecognizable due to the tragedy in his life.  There are points in the story that are repetitive and, well, depressing but it seems those emotions are exactly what the author is trying to evoke.  There were instances where I just wanted to reach into the book and tell John to get over it but then I haven’t personally experienced much loss in my life to know about coping and acceptance.  Definitely not a light-hearted, happy read, this is a deep book that requires both patience and much internal reflection.  It is dark and intense at points although, there is the bright spot in the character Lou Lou who is dealing with things in her own way.  The book touches on death in a very reassuring way and would be a comfort to anyone who has lost someone close to them.  It is a story of love, loss, mourning and finally hope.  A story of accepting support from typical and unusual places.  There is a point near the end where I almost shed a tear.  The unexpected revelation took me by surprise.  I could see where this book could be a real tear-jerker for those who have experienced a certain level of loss in their lives.  It is a great book for those dealing with death and struggling to understand how to continue on in the shadow of tragedy.  7 out of 10 from my inexperienced perspective.