Three Journeys

David Stuart
Publish America (2006)
ISBN 9781424148677
Reviewed by Mary Simmons for Reader Views (3/07)


Take a look back at the decade that shaped a generation in “Three Journeys,” a novel by David Stuart. The story starts in May 1961 as Bill, Steve and Donald are celebrating their graduation from the University of Texas engineering school. Bill is heading to L.A. to attend art school, Steve is preparing for a move to Seattle where he will be working for Boeing and Donald is looking forward to a life in the Air Force. As they go their separate ways, they promise to keep in touch as they take divergent paths along life’s journey. As the characters live and grow throughout the rest of the decade, Stuart weaves in historical facts, including the 1962 World’s Fair in Seattle, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassination of President Kennedy, the Space Race, the Vietnam War, student protests, drug use, Woodstock and the moon landing. By following these three characters, Stuart allows us to track these events from different perspectives. Each character deals with his own aspects, with Bill taking part in the hippie culture, Steve going to work for NASA and Donald fighting in the Vietnam War.

Stuart refrains from using the book as a platform to diatribe about the events that took place. Instead, he uses it more like a mirror, to reflect where we have been and how we can learn from the decisions made more than 40 years ago. I thought he was particularly effective in one section where two characters argue about U.S. involvement in war. While the first character is adamant that killing is wrong on any level, under any circumstances, the other is willing to do what he can to defend his country and follow the orders of his superiors. While reading this dialogue, I was struck by the fact that it could take place during any time of conflict throughout history, including today. Stuart maintains a balance, showing both sides of the argument and letting readers draw their own conclusions. He portrays how war can tear people apart. We all have strong feelings on the issue when forced to address it. Opposing viewpoints can break up friendships, romantic relationships and familial support. It is a volatile subject that brings out deep emotions, but considering the current state of the world, it is one that we must continue to discuss.

“Three Journeys” is an interesting trip back in time. The author draws on his own life experience, in the Air Force and working for NASA, to develop believable characters that struggle, love, and grow during a tumultuous time in our recent history. Many people will be reminded of where they were when these key events took place and will be able to revisit this time in their lives through this work. For me, personally, some chapters were a little dry since I have no background knowledge of engineering or the military and the terminology could be overwhelming at times. However, the characters were well-developed and relatable, which redeemed the book in my eyes.

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