Snow Cloud
Novel reviewed by J. Gusman in July 2008
It takes experience to acquire wisdom. One who knows this best is Jordon, an audacious Stellar snowflake whose youthful ignorance, exuberance and feelings of social inequity leads him on adventures that will change his life forever.
This cleverly crafted story takes the social components of human existence and personifies life through Jordon and the characters Arthur Davis masterfully creates.
Like J.D. Salinger’s novel, “Catcher in the Rye,” Davis uses themes of alienation, loneliness and companionship to characterize the protagonist’s journey through difficult life’s transitions.
During the time at his colony, Jordon struggles with authority figures and their outlook on life. He wants to roam the sky freely and dangerously while his Elders emphasize the importance of education and safety.
With nothing to lose, Jordon frees himself of the Elders’ tutelage only to find he is more alone in a world of uncertainty. Jordon’s unbelievable skill and instinct makes him what his teacher Segus calls “special”, but it will take maturity for Jordon to find out what being “special” really means.
Through various adventures involving hailstorms, encounters with giant cloudbirds and earth beings, Jordon begins to discover the balance between hazard and caution, courage and carelessness, practice and knowledge. Will his travels result in personal growth or land him in a life-threatening situation he can’t maneuver away from?
Reflections from the narrative produce an introspective and engaging blend of philosophy, spirituality, emotion and exploration of the human spirit.
The beautifully metaphoric prose Davis constructs is surely a literary accomplishment that any audience can identify with and nostalgically enjoy.