Questions of Perspective – A Review
Questions of Perspective features a journey of self-discovery, a hint of mystery, and a cat. It sounded like an intriguing combination for a good read; I had no hesitation in accepting a place on this tour.
Introduction
No one knew it at the time, but April 19, 2011, was the most important day in the history of the world.
After his only friend and colleague, John Manta, disappears without a word, Dave Randall further entrenches himself in the humdrum life of an unenthusiastic lawyer. But once he begins to understand what happened, he embarks on a journey to uncover the deeper meanings and implications of John’s fate.
Accompanied by Peaches, the cat, Dave uproots his life and reinvents himself in the midst of his search. Along the way, he is haunted by his piecemeal understanding of John’s fate and what it means for his existence. Little does Dave know, his journey of self-discovery will have ramifications that extend far beyond the borders of his own life.
Review
The story begins with Dave embarking on his first post as a law graduate. There is much in this section which is relatable. From Dave’s emotions on beginning his career, to the office personalities and politics. Preferring to avoid the inevitable work cliques, Dave finds a friend in John. They bond over shared frustrations at work, and a feeling that neither of them is in their dream job.
When John disappears, Dave continues life as normal at first. Until the day he discovers what became of his friend. At this point, everything changes. We join Dave on his journey of self-discovery and contemplation as he leaves his job for a new path. With Peaches, the cat, for company, Dave packs what he needs, and moves away. His pleasure at leaving the office and accompanying paperwork behind him is palpable. In the fortunate position of having enough savings to last a while, Dave is able to slow his pace. He has time to think about his own existence, and the wider meaning of life and all that it brings.
Dave finds a mountain trail near his new accommodation, which he walks every day. His challenge to himself is to find something new and beautiful every time he walks it. This fresh, mindful, perspective leads Dave to reassess his priorities as he embarks on his new path. John remains in Dave’s life, intermittently. They challenge each other; John pushing Dave to live his life consciously. In return, Dave encourages John to view the world with compassion.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were people I connected with, even the ones I wouldn’t want to work with. Through Dave, we see the importance of slowing down to fully appreciate each moment. Of being mindful in whatever we do. Whether we’re walking a mountain trail, or hanging the washing out, those are our moments and they are all that we have at any given point. And the relationship between Dave and John is one which any reader can draw from. We can all learn from each other, no matter how knowledgeable or experienced we consider ourselves. This is a deeply thoughtful book, which I have continued to reflect on long after reaching the end.
Purchase Links
About the Author
When he is not writing, Daniel Maunz works as an attorney as in-house counsel for a major insurance company. He currently lives in Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, with his wife Lynne, their son Patrick, and their two cats: Admiral Meowy McWhiskers and Captain Cutie (or “Admiral” and “Captain” for short). Questions of Perspective is his first novel.
Connect with Daniel on social media here:
Instagram
Twitter
Facebook
Many thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for hosting this blog tour, and offering me the chance to review Questions of Perspective. Thank you to Daniel Maunz for gifting me a copy of the book, in return for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
15 May 2020
