fiction

Young grade nine school dropout, John Thompson (Johnny P'tuu) starts his work life at the age of 15, pumping gas at a local service station in Milestone, AB. There he is mentored by Ernie Greely, a complex character who guides Johnny through the most formative years of his life. A newfound quest for knowledge and fortunate circumstance launch this quiet, but gifted young man into a world of success he molds for himself, along with his lifelong friend and partner, Ezra Goldberg. Though circumstance leads to a life of international scope, John never loses his innate desire to remain a small-town boy. His life involves myriad twists and turns as he balances perceived expectations with personal satisfaction. A staccato writing style portrays an entire life of hope and positivity in a world deficient in both.

This is the fourth self-published book by Rick Gillis. These include three fictional novels and a collection of short stories. These include The Boy Who Couldn't Die, Buckskin Girl and Blackheart, The Astonishing Legend of Johnny P'tuu, and The Chair (short stories). All have significant ties to Alberta, particularly the southwest part of the province where the author grew up.