Right from the start, Allison does a great job of immersing readers in the rich, real-life tale, reporting on tantalizing clues (a miniature grandfather clock that died in 1953; an elusive note from his father) establishing the mystery, the family, and the sweep of time, and supplementing it all with diary entries, photos, and archival evidence. The narrative hurtles forward in the form of a quest-cum-bildungsroman, where with every ensuing clue, the question of what has happened to the missing clock collection becomes more urgent. The narrative often delves into the intimate intricacies of clocks, watches, and the art of their making, and will delight clock-lovers, though the hunt will be approachable to anyone interested in compelling family stories.
That mystery is resolved almost halfway through, with the rest of the book marveling at the various clocks in this once-missing collection, celebrating the marvelous devices—like a world clock displaying the time in 24 cities on 12 faces, or many gorgeous mainsprings and inner workings—with an expert’s eye and sense of surprises delight. Allison surveys the collection in chatty dialogue and clear, engaging photographs that will dazzle clock-lovers, though lay readers may find it often technical. This book is a labor of love, a grandson setting down for posterity the truth and wonder of a lost heritage. Lovers of clocks and quaint family histories will enjoy this book, which succeeds in touching the heart.
Takeaway: Touching, fascinating read for lovers of clocks and quaint family histories.
Comparable Titles: Simon Goodman’s The Orpheus Clock, David Rooney About Time.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
