

The Great Novel That Almost Wasn't
Allen Levi, author of the debut novel *Theo of Golden*, dives into the heart of storytelling with a focus on faith and community. He shares his journey of self-publishing during the pandemic, highlighting how creativity intertwines with purpose. The conversation ventures into the power of listening in communication and the joy found in meaningful connections. With a nod to literary endings, Levi reflects on how stories can shape our understanding of kindness and responsibility, making a compelling case for art's emotional impact.
38:58
Accidental Novel
- Allen Levi's novel, "Theo of Golden," started as a personal writing exercise during COVID.
- Inspired by portraits in a coffee shop, he initially had no intention to publish.
Encouraged to Publish
- Friends encouraged Levi to publish after reading the initial draft, leading to its success.
- Levi and his niece self-published, finding it a rewarding model.
Beyond Christian Fiction
- Levi hesitates to categorize "Theo of Golden" as strictly Christian fiction.
- He aims for broad appeal, using universal themes and subtle allusions to faith.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
Exploring the Profound Beauty of 'Theo of Golden'
02:19 • 2min
From Inspiration to Publication
04:34 • 14min
The Art of Listening in Communication
19:00 • 6min
Finding Joy in Connections
24:48 • 4min
The Power of Literary Endings
28:42 • 12min
Theo of Golden
Theo of Golden
Allen Levi
Jaber Crow
Jaber Crow
An Autobiography
Wendell Berry
Wendell Berry's "Jayber Crow" is a novel that follows the life of a man who returns to his hometown after years of wandering. The story explores themes of community, nature, and the search for meaning in life. Berry's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose and its focus on the interconnectedness of all things. The novel's depiction of rural life and its exploration of faith and doubt resonate with readers who appreciate thoughtful and evocative storytelling. The book's focus on the importance of place and community offers a refreshing perspective on modern life.
The Last Sweet Mile
The Last Sweet Mile
null
Allen Levi

How to Know a Person
The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen
David Brooks
David Brooks's "How to Know a Person" delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring how we perceive and understand others. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, active listening, and self-awareness in building meaningful connections. Brooks challenges readers to move beyond superficial judgments and embrace a deeper understanding of themselves and those around them. He argues that true connection requires vulnerability and a willingness to be seen authentically. Ultimately, the book offers a practical guide to fostering richer, more fulfilling relationships.

A Tale of Two Cities
Julius Julius Seybt
Francisco Manuel GRANADO CASTRO
Marion Leighton
federico alonso
Aedi Abraham
maxi sanchez
jaime arbe
Fred BARNARD
Laura Santamaria
Juan Ramon Torregrosa
monica alonso
Charles Dickens
Alejo García Moreno
Miguel Muñoz
leonardo pablo federico sanchez alonso
J. J. Bernier
Salustiano Masó Simón
Victor G Ambrus
Jose perez
Hablot K. BROWNE
Published in 1859, 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens is a historical novel that contrasts the lives in London and Paris during the late 18th century. The story revolves around characters such as Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, and Lucie Manette, each dealing with love, sacrifice, and the profound societal changes brought about by the French Revolution. The novel critiques both the conditions leading up to the Revolution and the Revolution itself, highlighting themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the potential for positive change. Dickens's vivid portrayal of the social disparities and political unrest of the era, along with his iconic opening lines, 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,' make the novel a compelling exploration of human resilience and societal issues[3][4][5].

The grapes of wrath
John Steinbeck
Published in 1939, 'The Grapes of Wrath' is a powerful and poignant novel by John Steinbeck. It tells the story of the Joad family, Oklahoma tenant farmers who are forced to leave their home after the devastating effects of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. The novel follows their arduous journey along Route 66 to California, where they face numerous hardships, including poverty, exploitation, and the loss of family members. The book explores themes of family, survival, and the struggle for human dignity in the face of overwhelming adversity. It also delves into the broader social and economic issues of the time, highlighting the conflict between the powerful and the powerless. Steinbeck's work is known for its vivid portrayal of the human condition and its impact on American literature and society[2][4][5].

Gilead
Marilynne Robinson
In 'Gilead', Marilynne Robinson crafts a deeply personal and introspective narrative through the eyes of John Ames, a 76-year-old pastor writing to his seven-year-old son in 1956. The novel explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and redemption as Ames recounts his life, his family's history, and the tensions between his abolitionist grandfather and his pacifist father. The book is a meditation on the human condition, highlighting the beauty in everyday moments and the profound bond between fathers and sons. It won the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Critics Circle Award.

On Writing
A Memoir of the Craft
Stephen King
This book is both a memoir and a writing guide. It details Stephen King's life, from his childhood and early writing endeavors to his struggles with addiction and his near-fatal accident in 1999. The book is divided into sections that cover King's life ('C.V.'), the nature of writing ('What Writing Is'), writing mechanics ('Toolbox'), his advice on the craft ('On Writing'), and his recovery from the accident ('On Living: A Postscript'). King offers practical tips on writing, including the importance of vocabulary, grammar, and style, as well as the need for consistent writing routines and ruthless editing. He emphasizes that good writing comes from within, driven by curiosity, wonder, and emotional honesty rather than commercial motives.

Lanterns on the Levee
Recollections of a Planter's Son
William Alexander Percy
In 'Lanterns on the Levee', William Alexander Percy recounts his life in the Mississippi Delta, bridging the gap between the semifeudal South of the 1800s and the anxious South of the early 1940s. The book explores themes of social change, racial relations, and the values of kindness and moral integrity. Percy's experiences include fighting against the Ku Klux Klan and leading relief efforts during the 1927 Mississippi River flood.

Mere Christianity
C.S. Lewis
In 'Mere Christianity', C.S. Lewis argues for the existence of God and defends Christian theology. The book is divided into four parts: the first argues for the existence of God based on the 'law of human nature'; the second defends Christian theology, including the 'Liar, lunatic, or Lord' trilemma regarding Jesus Christ; the third explores Christian ethics, including the cardinal and theological virtues; and the fourth discusses the Christian conception of God, particularly the Holy Trinity. Lewis also addresses topics such as free will, morality, sexual ethics, and the institution of marriage. The book is known for its clear and logical presentation of Christian apologetics and has been praised for its straightforward and humorous writing style[1][2][4].

A Gentleman in Moscow
Amor Towles
The book follows Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov, who narrowly escapes execution during the Russian Revolution due to a revolutionary poem he wrote. Instead, he is sentenced to house arrest at the Hotel Metropol in Moscow. Over the next thirty-two years, the Count adjusts to his new life, forming friendships with the hotel's staff and guests, and navigating the changing political landscape of the Soviet Union. The novel explores themes of parental duty, friendship, romance, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity[1][4][5].
In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and author Allen Levi discuss the themes and inspirations behind Levi's debut novel, Theo of Golden. They explore the writing process, character development, and the importance of conversation and connection in storytelling. They also touch on art's ability to evoke emotions and they way it helps us understand our place in the world.