In Search of a Brilliant White Cloud

In Search of a Brilliant White Cloud
Simon Van Der Heym
Pentland Press
ISBN: 1-57197-420-2
Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Dr. Tami Brady

In Search of a Brilliant White Cloud examines the life and struggles of Eric. The beginning of the story introduces the shy, awkward Eric at the onset of the German Invasion of Holland. At this time, the boy has little comprehension of what a Jew was, why his family are in danger simply because his grandparents were Jewish, or how his life would change as a result of such racism. The constant danger, hate, and uncertainty of life in the next few years force the frustrated and confused boy to draw further within himself making it extremely difficult for Eric to open himself up to love and to the other treasures that life brings for the rest of his life.
Though, most of us have not had to endure the extreme pain and suffering that Eric had to endure as a child, Eric is basically a representation of each of us. Each of us has been influenced and shaped by our own experiences. All too often, we close ourselves off from love, possibilities, and living life because of our own insecurities and the inability to see past the trauma to the miracles and gifts that each situation brings. In Search of a Brilliant White Cloud urges us to look at our treasures found in both positive and seemingly negative situations.