John M Adler

The Dream Clouds of August John M Adler

The rural back water of Ladson, Georgia is refreshing, yet challenging new territory for Seth Wisener. Not only is the change of setting compelling, Seth discovers he's in the middle of a complex conflict between two polar opposites. Nathan Hammond, the massive black foreman of the tobacco farm, establishes himself as a friend and mentor to Seth. Nathan, a man of the earth, introduces Seth to a Christian life that both attracts and confuses Seth's privileged, secular bearing. Enter Ramsey Wills, the last hire of the tobacco crew. It is at the point of complete revulsion to the unpredictable, obnoxiously rude and seemingly racist Ramsey that Seth starts to see something deeper in this young country boy. Through an unlikely, mutual interest in the movie, "The Endless Summer," Seth discovers the tragedy and insecurity that underpin young Ramsey's bravado. As the summer heats up in the tobacco, Seth begins to find himself in the role of mentor. Seth tries to teach Ramsey how to surf in Jacksonville. Failure here spurs Ramsey to vent on Nate with nasty racial venom. A resolution of violence and hate seems inevitable, and Seth tries his best to divert this outcome. Suddenly the power of the Holy Spirit takes over the action through Nathan Hammond. Seth is witness to the amazing power of Jesus Christ, a power which overcomes and sets a stage for healing in both Ramsey Wills and Seth. The story of this journey is told in the innocence of an adolescent growing into adulthood. With a realistic and nostalgic filter, with humor and a sensitive eye, the narrative goes beyond the confines of political correctness and exposes the essence of our humanity saved by the grace of God, Himself.