Review of All Together Now

Elavarasi Charles · Post by **Elavarasi Charles** » 18 Mar 2025, 06:47

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "All Together Now" by David Mahoney.]

5 out of 5 stars

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All Together Now by David Mahoney offers the readers a collection of 34 short stories in two parts. Each story is crafted with precise arrangement, and its ending never fails to drench us in the intended emotion.

There is no single theme that connects all the stories. However, the anticipation of what comes next keeps the reader turning the pages. The stories, in one way or another, are all set in the UK. So people from the UK can easily connect with the references. The first story, ‘Inclusiveness’, immediately brings out laughter and holds it through all three pages. Every humor-driven story expresses the author’s storytelling prowess. The monologues brimming with sarcasm will stay in the reader’s mind long after reading them. In fact, all the politically themed stories are brilliantly layered pieces of satire that readers can enjoy with a smile.

Though humor takes the spotlight, my favorite pick in the book is ‘The Story of a Carpenter.’ The story will surely caress a Christian heart. It is a story about the father of the ‘Son of God’ and what it means to him. Even though it might not appeal to a purist, the added human touch to the holy story will surprise you and leave you teary-eyed by the end. The line “he wouldn’t say boo to a goose”—a typical fatherly remark—managed to bring a chuckle, and in that instant, I decided I needed this perspective. Additionally, there are other biblical-themed stories with humanizing factors that are appealing and memorable too.

There are soul-healing stories like ‘The Waterfall,’ ‘A Walk in the Forest,’ and ‘The Flower Lady’ that will bring the reader's own emotions to the front for a gentle confrontation and nudge them to process their feelings. And then there are striking poetic stories that adorn the book like well-matched ornaments.

I have nothing that I dislike in the book. The editing is top-notch. The author’s 35 years of experience in teaching English shines in each and every story. The writing style is crisp and carefully eliminates all the unnecessary parts without losing its charm. Needless to say, the author knows his craft, and his collection of stories speaks volumes about it. I’m excited to read more of his works. A warning: there is liberal use of erotic elements in various stories, making it suitable for readers aged 16 and older.

All things considered, I wholeheartedly give this masterpiece a perfect 5 out of 5. This book might fascinate readers who love short stories, which have a strong impact of positivity, hope, and a generous amount of humor. If you love stories that do not reinforce morality but instead challenge human emotions while ensuring the reader's comfort, if you’d like a fairly quick read that slows down time around you, and if you are from the UK—don’t worry, it is not strictly necessary—then it is your cue to immediately grab this marvelous collection.

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All Together Now
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Post by **Priya Murugesan** » 20 Mar 2025, 21:52

I love short stories and this book looks like a great one. I am very sure I will enjoy this. Thanks for your awesome review!

Elavarasi Charles · Post by **Elavarasi Charles** » 25 Mar 2025, 09:43

Priya Murugesan wrote: ↑20 Mar 2025, 21:52 I love short stories and this book looks like a great one. I am very sure I will enjoy this. Thanks for your awesome review!

Thank you priya!!

Mark Lazarus · Post by **Mark Lazarus** » 26 Mar 2025, 11:27

It sounds like a delightful and versatile collection of stories, especially with its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and thought-provoking narratives. I appreciate when a book can evoke laughter while also tugging at deeper emotions. The variety in themes and the balance between satire and touching stories make it even more appealing. The fact that it includes pieces that resonate with different aspects of life, from spirituality to emotional healing, makes me curious to explore it. I’d definitely consider giving it a try, especially for those sharp, witty stories that linger in your mind.

Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 26 Mar 2025, 12:26

Short stories are not my preferred type of literature, but I can see the appeal. If anything, I do enjoy when they are centered around a theme and try to teach a valuable lesson. Thanks!

Elavarasi Charles · Post by **Elavarasi Charles** » 27 Mar 2025, 01:48

marklazarus wrote: ↑26 Mar 2025, 11:27 It sounds like a delightful and versatile collection of stories, especially with its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and thought-provoking narratives. I appreciate when a book can evoke laughter while also tugging at deeper emotions. The variety in themes and the balance between satire and touching stories make it even more appealing. The fact that it includes pieces that resonate with different aspects of life, from spirituality to emotional healing, makes me curious to explore it. I’d definitely consider giving it a try, especially for those sharp, witty stories that linger in your mind.

Thank you Mark! This book will definitely leave you wanting more. So try it!

Elavarasi Charles · Post by **Elavarasi Charles** » 27 Mar 2025, 01:53

Amy Luman wrote: ↑26 Mar 2025, 12:26 Short stories are not my preferred type of literature, but I can see the appeal. If anything, I do enjoy when they are centered around a theme and try to teach a valuable lesson. Thanks!

I had mixed feelings about short stories too. But this one surprised me. Thank you for your comments Amy!