Boy Almighty: An Autobiographical Novel

Frederick Manfred wrote Lord Grizzly, which was a finalist for the National Book Award. Boy Almighty is his dramatic personal story of contracting tuberculosis and being cared for at a convalescent home. It is a profound and compelling study of a man who desperately wants to live and his relationships with doctors, nurses, roommates, and a fellow patient.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2021
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Frederick Manfred, a renowned author, has left an indelible mark on the literary world with his captivating works. Among his notable achievements, Lord Grizzly, a finalist for the prestigious National Book Award, stands out as a testament to his storytelling prowess. Manfred's literary oeuvre encompasses a staggering twenty-six novels and short story collections, each delving into profound and nuanced explorations of life's challenges. These narratives delve into the complexities of coping with death, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of strength. While Boy Almighty may be categorized as a work of fiction, it carries a deeply personal and dramatic narrative that reflects Manfred's own experiences. The novel vividly portrays Manfred's journey as a young man grappling with the devastating diagnosis of tuberculosis. It follows his treatment at the Glen Lake Sanatorium in Minnesota, a convalescent home where he underwent a transformative recovery process. Through a captivating blend of stream-of-consciousness and objective reporting, Boy Almighty unfolds the story of a man teetering on the edge of dissolution and disintegration. At the same time, it delves into the harrowing physical battle his body wages to survive against the relentless disease. Eric Frey, the protagonist of the novel, is a complex and relatable character. Sensitive, aware, and filled with a profound love for life, Frey is plagued by frustration and failure. Initially too ill to be placed in a tubercular ward, where his imminent death would upset the other patients, Frey's journey is a testament to his indomitable spirit. Running parallel to Frey's inner struggles is the story of his body's relentless fight for survival. Boy Almighty is a profound and compelling exploration of a man's unwavering desire to live. It delves into his complex relationships with doctors, nurses, roommates, and a fellow patient who becomes a source of love and guidance. Manfred's portrayal of these characters is nuanced and authentic, eliciting a range of emotions from readers. The novel sheds light on the complexities of medical treatment, the power of human connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. In conclusion, Frederick Manfred's literary legacy is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to storytelling. Boy Almighty, while a work of fiction, carries a deeply personal and profound narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level. Through its exploration of life's challenges, resilience, and the human spirit, the novel offers a glimpse into the depths of the human experience. Manfred's ability to capture the essence of human emotions and relationships is a testament to his profound understanding of the human condition.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 208 x 206 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496227706