This is an appealing story that depicts love
in an unusual manner. It tells the tale of two boys, one black
and the other white, who for the first six years of their
lives are raised as brothers in the home of a prominent white
doctor. Born with a hole in his heart, Thomas survives infancy
thanks to the skill of Dr. Nolan. Recently widowed, Dr. Nolan
falls in love with Thomas' beautiful, dark skinned mother,
and she agrees to move in with him and help him raise his
infant son, Eric. The differences between Eric and Thomas
go beyond the color of their skin and their economic backgrounds.
Where Thomas is frail and sensitive, Eric is robust and overwhelming.
But both boys idolize each other and never think of their
racial or any other differences. When they are in first grade,
Thomas' mother dies and his biological father reclaims him,
taking him to live in the ghetto. Eric is devastated at his
second mother's death as well as at losing his brother.
Walter Mosley shows that he understands the power
of love and the feelings of alienation that a life without
love can cause. Each boy suffers the loss of their mother
and of their friendship in different ways. While Thomas endures
the hardships of being forced to live on the streets, Eric,
although privileged, is also discontent. Their lives become
intertwined again as young adults and the results lead to
an exciting and surprising ending.
Through Lorraine Toussaint's excellent narration,
we are able to hear the confident charm of Eric and the resilient
frailty of Thomas. Each displays feelings of strength and
vulnerability at different times. Her reading effectively
emphasizes the differences in their personalities as well
as in their circumstances.
I recommend this book because it shows
that love can exist in many ways. The title, Fortunate
Son, suggests a paradox that is so often present in life.
What is supposed to bring happiness can sometimes be the cause
of despair, and enduring adversity can lead to joy. The author
takes the listener on a virtual roadtrip of emotions, ultimately
arriving at a welcome, but unexpected destination.
