The Day the Angels Fell by Shawn Smucker

The Day the Angels Fell by Shawn Smucker is a story of good versus evil and how one young person struggled with the very adult question of:  Is there life after death? The story is told in the present and in the past, through the eyes of the protagonist as an old man and as a young boy.

Sam was twelve years old when it happened. The summer had been particularly bad for storms. On this day Sam’s new cat climbs the old oak tree in the front yard. When an ominous storm starts approaching Sam climbs up the branches to rescue it. Sam’s mother bargains with him, if he comes down and goes inside she will retrieve his cat. Then the lightening strikes and Sam’s mother is killed and his whole world changes.

Sam and his father are bereft with her passing.  Just after the funeral a stranger, Mr. Tennin, arrives and starts working for his father on their farm. He tells the story of Adam and Eve and the Tree of Life whose fruit will give eternal life. He wisely advises Sam that death is a gift.  Being twelve, all Sam wants is his mother back and he sees the Tree of Life as the way to achieve that. With the help of his friend Abra, he sets out to find the tree. Deep down Sam knows this is wrong but in his grief he struggles to accept what has happened. There will be consequences for his actions and in the end a price will be paid.

The story felt very real yet is woven with the supernatural. I loved how Sam struggled with questions that are as old as mankind. He was forced to grow up quickly and deal with loss and grief in a very adult way. The writing was superbly done. The plot is totally intriguing and the author hooks you early and pulls you along swiftly. I almost could not turn the pages fast enough.

I dislike being verbose and there are so many good elements to talk about. Therefore, I recommend that you read it and discover them for yourself. The story is simple yet complex and what I took away from it will be different than the next person.  I think this story will appeal to all types of readers. Simply put, it was a joy to read.

I received a free copy from the publisher via Library Thing’s early reviewer program.