The Clock of Life

In the small town of Hadlee, Mississippi, during the 1980's, Jason Lee Rainey struggles to find his way amongst the old, steadfast Southern attitudes about race, while his friendship with a black boy, Samson Johnson, deepens.


By way of stories from others, Jason Lee learns about his larger-than-life father, who was killed in Vietnam.

He longs to become that sort of man, but doesn't believe he has it in him.
In The Clock Of Life he learns lessons from the past, and the realities of inequality. He flourishes with the bond of friendship; endures the pain of senseless death; finds the courage to stand up for what he believes is right; and comes to realize he is his father's son.

This story explores how two unsettling chapters in American history, the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War, affect the fate of a family, a town, and two boyhood friends.

*May Contain Spoilers*

Undoubtedly the best historical fiction novel I have ever read, The Clock of Life by Nancy Klann-Moren surprised and astounded me. I've never been one for history, but this book completely captured my heart as well as my attention.

Jason Lee, with a heart that holds so much love and strength, is the main character in this Southern novel . His moral compass is something to be jealous of and his urge to make the world a better place is remarkable. Readers watch him grow into a man as the pages turn, while the connection with Jason Lee flourishes in the sadness of his waning innocence. His bravery, hope, and faith are overflowing, even in the darkest times, making him a character to be remembered.

The plot follows Jason Lee and his loss of innocence when he learns that his friendship with an African American isn't "normal." This doesn't stop him from becoming blood brothers with Samson, sharing his hopes and dreams for the future. The story of their friendship is heartwarming, yet also heartbreaking. Nancy Klann-Moren has created a must-read novel that will touch the hearts of readers with The Clock of Life.

Rating: 5/5 Cups