Brother Odd is more of a return to the first book, Odd Thomas which was published in 2003. Forever Odd, published in 2005 was a darker tale and much more introspective than this one. In Brother Odd, Koontz returns with a strong supporting cast including Brother Knuckles who was a mob enforcer, before finding his new calling. There is Sister Angela who has a “periwinkle blue stare” as well as Boo, a snow-colored hound who loves inclement weather.
This is Koontz at his finest. There is a wry sense of humor that runs like multiple threads throughout the story. As with his earlier books in the series it is easy to find yourself immersed in the development of the characters. They are loose, individual and really come alive with their rich dialog. The plot takes you along at an ever increasing pace moving faster and faster toward… Well, you wouldn’t want me to spoil it would you?
Odd Thomas has become one of the best serial fictional characters ever created. His calm demeanor and his dedication to his fellow souls in –- both living and not — brings his personality to life. He is not pretentious and is always willing to undertake the challenges that life places in his path.
This unabridged audio version is read by David Aaron Baker. An actor who has appeared on Broadway and on film, he has narrated all three audio versions of the Odd Thomas series. In this one Baker has slipped back in to the voice of Odd as smoothly as sliding into fuzzy slippers on a Christmas morning. His ability to weave in and out of the different characters makes this a wonder to listen to. I hope that he continues to bring Odd Thomas to life in the spoken word as Dean Koontz brings him to life on the page.
If I had one complaint with the story it is that it is too short. This is one of those rare moments that at the end, you don't want to be done. Even more, you can’t wait to go back. I hope that we will be going back soon!
I highly recommend Brother Odd. If you have never read (or listened to) an Odd Thomas story, get all three. You will not be disappointed.
Article comments
1 - Jewels
I felt the same way regarding the ending, just too soon. Odd Thomas is an incredible character, one Koontz should be proud to have introduced.
Koontz is an entertaining and fun read, but his books seem to run by too quickly - I just can't put them away until I've finished... Odd Thomas would make a great character to create a film around.
2 - T. Michael Testi
Jewels,
I couldn't agree more. Especially about a movie on the books. That would be great.
3 - Victor
This book was enjoyable, but not his best by far. In fact, I think the other books in the Odd Thomas series were better.
I've recently listened to to other audio books as well: Lisey's Story and Thr3e (by Ted Dekker). Both of these were well worth the time and money - if you haven't already listened to them.
4 - Michael C.
I had a hard time keeping interest with this one. Too much detail on any one person, place, or thing can make a book quite boring. "Watchers" kept me right on the edge of my seat! This one I could'nt wait till it was over! Also, the narrator's voice was...well how could I put it..annoying! Koontz is great, don't get me wrong. I love most of his books, but this one didn't fall into that catagory.