Title: Two Dreams & Other Tales
Author: Gregory S. Treakle
Publisher: GTWriter
ISBN: 979-8985807813
Pages: 156
Genre: Short Story Anthology
Reviewed by: Lee Brown
Pacific Book Review
Anthology collections are sometimes a little hit-and-miss, especially when the stories within are from a range of different writers. But Two Dreams & Other Talescontains five stories from the same writer, Gregory S. Treakle, who commands our attention throughout this relatable and character-driven story collection. Each story has a different time and place and a unique lead character, but common themes persist throughout, such as faith, redemption, and the intricacies of family relationships.
‘Passing Through,’ the first story in the anthology, tells the tale of a man named Byron Welles who reconnects with his past when he returns to his hometown. Memories of a life he once lived are interspersed with a reflection on where his life took him following a terrible crime for which he was held responsible. It’s a sad tale but not one without hope due to Byron’s willingness to let go of the trauma which has haunted him. The second story, ‘Two Dreams,’ is less dramatic, but it tells a moving story of one man’s desire to fulfill the dreams of his father. Ultimately, this dream becomes his dream too and the story becomes a reflection on the way in which dreams can be passed on like a baton from a father to his son.
Next up is ‘Grandaddy and Me,’ a story that chronicles the relationship between a teenage boy and his grandpa. Their relationship isn’t an easy one but Treakle takes both us and them on a journey both literal and figurative that brings restoration to their familial connection. Then we have ‘Three Days at Sunset,’ a tale of bullying and brotherly bonding which takes place at a summer camp. It’s a story with an unhappy ending but you’ll be glad to know it’s not altogether morose. Finally, ‘My Father’s Promise’ tells the story of a boy growing up in World War II. His father’s promise is one not likely to be fulfilled but then a miracle of sorts occurs at the story’s end.
Your reaction to the stories in this anthology will depend on how deeply they resonate with you. If you have ever lost a parent, been held responsible for the misdeeds of others, or struggled to connect with the people closest to you, then you will consider the book deeply personal. The power of Treakle’s writing draws us closer to his protagonists who almost become as if they are real people; so good is the way in which he relays their thought processes and feelings. You don’t need to relate to them to enjoy the book, however. The stories Treakle tells are intricate character studies that can be appreciated by anybody willing to invest in the lives of the people he writes about.
Two Dreams & Other Tales is a strong collection of stories which deserve recognition. The characters are memorable, a sense of time and place is well-evoked, and the writing has the power to prompt us into personal introspection. As a newly published author, Treakle quickly impresses. So, if you’re looking for something to add to your reading list, this accomplished work is recommended.
