by Justin Cohen
published by Telemachus
2012
No ISBN
Why Read?: Review
Challenges: n/a
Justin Cohen has created a unique concept with Quest, Inc.: self-help fiction. Combining fictional stories with real advice,
Quest, Inc. is an interesting and
uplifting read.
Robert Rivera won a prestigious award for his work
on the national obesity crisis.
Unfortunately, deeply-rooted problems blocked him from following his own
advice. With the help of the rest of his
former national committee members, Robert gets back on his feet in an amazing
four months. Psyched by what they
accomplished and perturbed that the recent study shows that their national
effort did not work, the four committee members – Robert, Carter, Jay, and Mickey
– plus a beauty guru, Alexia, form Quest, Inc.
Determined to prove that self-help gurus are more than snake oil
salesman, they take on a variety of cases while an investigative reporter
scrutinizes their every move.
Instead of being one novel, I would have enjoyed Quest, Inc. as a series of novellas,
each fully focusing on a client. The
first part which chronicles Robert’s recovery is excellent, and while the rest
of the book is fine, more time could have been spent on each of Quest, Inc.’s
clients, providing a little more conflict and intensity.
Quest, Inc.
is not fast-paced or action-packed but it is uplifting and motivational. Justin Cohen has created the perfect vehicle
for self-help advice without the stigma of an actual self-help book.
Ricki, thanks for the review of Justin's book. Glad you enjoyed it - and love how you coined the genre - self-help fiction.
ReplyDeleteThank you Ricki. I'm currently writing the sequel so your detailed feedback is very valuable.
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