G. Bradley Davis, a Glenside native, recently published his latest novel, Bellamy, which is set in Glenside and is inspired by the author’s childhood.

From the publisher’s press release:

This whimsical coming-of-age chronicle captures the euphoria and hilarity of adolescence during the sheltered and naively innocent decades of the 60s and 70s in small town America. Readers are introduced to Calvin Lloyd, a young boy whose imaginary friend, Bellamy, becomes his trusted confidant, mentor, and protector.

Set against the backdrop of a bygone era, the novel delves into Calvin’s trials and tribulations, including abusive encounters with his stepmother, his unconventional friendships with a black girlfriend and a homosexual neighbor, and the heart-wrenching murder of a childhood companion. Bellamy’s wise counsel encourages Calvin to stand strong in the face of adversity and not become an easy target for those seeking to harm him.

Calvin, a loner by both circumstance and choice, navigates the complexities of maintaining his secret relationships to avoid judgment and condemnation from both adults and peers. The shocking murder of Calvin’s childhood friend becomes a turning point in his life. The unjust blame placed on his homosexual friend and the prevailing prejudices of the time lead to a trial tainted by bigotry. Calvin holds the key to clearing his friend’s name, but he is paralyzed by fear of community backlash.

G. Bradley Davis’ unique writing style blends humor, poignancy, and suspense, making Bellamy a nostalgic and thought-provoking read. The novel draws readers into Calvin’s world, where they will find themselves laughing uproariously while reminiscing about their own youth. With a keen eye for detail and a heartwarming narrative, Davis paints a vivid picture of an era long past, reminding readers of the value of tolerance, empathy, and understanding in a world filled with diverse perspectives.

G. Bradley Davis takes his readers on a new literary journey in Bellamy; The Wonder Years meets Leave It to Beaver with Law & Order and Mad Magazine sprinkled in for fun! Whether readers are seeking a walk down memory lane or a fresh perspective on a pivotal era, Bellamy promises an engaging and unforgettable experience.

To purchase a copy of Bellamy, you can click here. For more on Davis, you can visit his website.

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