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The Doorman
Alex seems to have it all: a great penthouse apartment, a lovely girlfriend, and a prestigious Wall Street job. But below the surface he is sure of nothing but his angst-ridden doubts. And when he realizes that his doorman may be God, or sent by God, he will question things like never before.
This novelette is a story of New York doormen, tormented love, empty office life, and the theological questions that arise in response to the horrors of evil.
This novelette is a story of New York doormen, tormented love, empty office life, and the theological questions that arise in response to the horrors of evil.
39 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2014
3 people are currently reading
593 people want to read
About the author
Zack Love
8 books1,086 followersPardon the minimal content here. You're more likely to find new stuff on my author site: http://zacklove.com
And here's my bio:
Zack Love graduated from Harvard College, where he studied mostly literature, psychology, philosophy, and film. After college, he moved to New York City and took a corporate consulting job that had absolutely nothing to do with his studies. The attacks of September 11, 2001 inspired him to write a novelette titled “The Doorman" (http://tinyurl.com/TheDoormanAmazon), and heightened his interest in the Middle East. A decade later, that interest extended to the Syrian Civil war, which provided the backdrop for his latest work. In late 2013, Zack began releasing his unpublished works of fiction and became a full-time author. He has published comedy, psychological and philosophical fiction, and romance. Zack enjoys confining himself to one genre about as much as he likes trying to sum up his existence in one paragraph.
And here's my bio:
Zack Love graduated from Harvard College, where he studied mostly literature, psychology, philosophy, and film. After college, he moved to New York City and took a corporate consulting job that had absolutely nothing to do with his studies. The attacks of September 11, 2001 inspired him to write a novelette titled “The Doorman" (http://tinyurl.com/TheDoormanAmazon), and heightened his interest in the Middle East. A decade later, that interest extended to the Syrian Civil war, which provided the backdrop for his latest work. In late 2013, Zack began releasing his unpublished works of fiction and became a full-time author. He has published comedy, psychological and philosophical fiction, and romance. Zack enjoys confining himself to one genre about as much as he likes trying to sum up his existence in one paragraph.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 3, 2021
Why was I going to watch my hairline recede in front of two —thousand – Line spreadsheets staring at me from cold, glowing monitors? Why was everyone in my office apparently so happy to be spending So many hours there, when the things they really cared about -persons, pets, pastimes-were all relegated to a few photographs on their desks?
The Doorman
by Zack Love
This book was....wow. That is what I am thinking. Wow.
This is my 2nd read of the new year....it is a pleasure to be able to give a five star so early on in the year.
Alex is our narrator and he is tired and an Atheist. Or at least he was. Before he met Lenny....his doorman.
Please do not pass on this book if you too are an Atheist. One does not need to be Religious or even Spiritual to appreciate the beauty of this very short but deeply philosophical and meaningful book.
The Doorman is not a light and whimsical read. There is quite a bit of darkness here although I am really reluctant to spoil anything by saying what that darkness is and what role it plays in shaping Alex's life.
Alex lives in a luxury apartment building. He is making super great money at his Financial and horribly boring job. He has love in his life.
But he questions. Something is missing. His soul needs to be touched. It feels empty.
Tragedy..in the form of more than one..only succeeds in making him question more. And he becomes convinced that his Doorman Lenny....is in fact God. Or at least a somewhat Mystical and Otherworldly being.
Lenny is delightful. He seems to know things....answers to every question about every subject and there is an aura of goodness that surrounds him. He also saves Alex and I am not just talking about emotionally. No more about that in this review.
Lenny is an amazing man. So in fact is Alex. This is a very short book but in these pages one finds hope, tenderness, salvation and meaning. It is a beautiful tale that I found by chance and on the first day of the new year, it feels especially appropriate that I read it today.
I would recommend this book to everybody. It takes less than an hour to read. Oh....and Lenny? I believe yes he was..and is. Five stars.
The Doorman
by Zack Love
This book was....wow. That is what I am thinking. Wow.
This is my 2nd read of the new year....it is a pleasure to be able to give a five star so early on in the year.
Alex is our narrator and he is tired and an Atheist. Or at least he was. Before he met Lenny....his doorman.
Please do not pass on this book if you too are an Atheist. One does not need to be Religious or even Spiritual to appreciate the beauty of this very short but deeply philosophical and meaningful book.
The Doorman is not a light and whimsical read. There is quite a bit of darkness here although I am really reluctant to spoil anything by saying what that darkness is and what role it plays in shaping Alex's life.
Alex lives in a luxury apartment building. He is making super great money at his Financial and horribly boring job. He has love in his life.
But he questions. Something is missing. His soul needs to be touched. It feels empty.
Tragedy..in the form of more than one..only succeeds in making him question more. And he becomes convinced that his Doorman Lenny....is in fact God. Or at least a somewhat Mystical and Otherworldly being.
Lenny is delightful. He seems to know things....answers to every question about every subject and there is an aura of goodness that surrounds him. He also saves Alex and I am not just talking about emotionally. No more about that in this review.
Lenny is an amazing man. So in fact is Alex. This is a very short book but in these pages one finds hope, tenderness, salvation and meaning. It is a beautiful tale that I found by chance and on the first day of the new year, it feels especially appropriate that I read it today.
I would recommend this book to everybody. It takes less than an hour to read. Oh....and Lenny? I believe yes he was..and is. Five stars.
April 9, 2014
Wow...where do I even begin? It's very hard for me to find a lot of mentally stimulating reads for me now a days. I read A LOT and I read A LOT of really great books and novellas, but NOT a lot that really make me think and grab my attention/curiosity like this short novelette by Zack Love did!!! As a former New Yorker myself and someone who lived through 9/11...this story really hit home! It was extremely well written, the editing and formatting were beautiful and the cover is amazing...one of my favorite ones this year, which is saying a lot because I'm a total cover junkie!!
If you have not bought it...buy it! If you have it but have not read it...read it!! You will not regret it and it will blow your mind!! Good job Zack Love!!
I won't go into much detail about the story itself...
1) Because I HATE spoilers
2) Amazon already provides a free sample
3) This is a story that needs to be experienced personally without any outside interference!
I do not leave many reviews, I only review 5 stars and something that I know I would recommend and this novelette is at the top of my list so far this year!!
My recommendation...add it to your TBR as soon as possible and get to reading! Enjoy!!
If you have not bought it...buy it! If you have it but have not read it...read it!! You will not regret it and it will blow your mind!! Good job Zack Love!!
I won't go into much detail about the story itself...
1) Because I HATE spoilers
2) Amazon already provides a free sample
3) This is a story that needs to be experienced personally without any outside interference!
I do not leave many reviews, I only review 5 stars and something that I know I would recommend and this novelette is at the top of my list so far this year!!
My recommendation...add it to your TBR as soon as possible and get to reading! Enjoy!!
May 29, 2014
The Doorman is an enthralling, soulful tale with intertwined themes of identity, love and faith. Skilfully crafted, the story develops with one foot in reality and another in the surreal, a stance that gives rise to magnificent prose.
Symbolism -- as a form of foreshadowing -- adds texture to the story, with seemingly inconsequential details becoming chillingly relevant as the narrative unfolds.
Zack Love can write! His style, language and characters demonstrate, once again, his ability to challenge the audience with new and alternative considerations.
Symbolism -- as a form of foreshadowing -- adds texture to the story, with seemingly inconsequential details becoming chillingly relevant as the narrative unfolds.
Zack Love can write! His style, language and characters demonstrate, once again, his ability to challenge the audience with new and alternative considerations.
December 10, 2014
What would you do if an elevator ride made you question your most fundamental beliefs? That is precisely the situation in which Alex, the narrator/protagonist finds himself in this intensely thought-provoking novelette. Following this Hero's Journey takes the reader on an exploration of the most profound questions posited by philosophers and sages throughout history.
The Doorman is a beautifully-written story, with theological underpinnings and mystical qualities, in which the author tackles such weighty concepts as love and loss, good and evil, destiny and free will. That he is able to accomplish that so artfully in so few pages is a testament to a very sophisticated talent for story telling and strong, well-developed technical skills.
The prose is tight and flows seamlessly. The dialogue and internal monologue of the narrator/protagonist are at times almost breath-takingly poignant. The characters are richly drawn and in some cases, brilliantly challenge established preconceptions. The issues are both timeless and timely and the story concept is innovative and original.
Despite the length, The Doorman is easily one of the most impressive stories I have read in a very long time and would, in my opinion, stand as an equal with award-winning prose.
The Doorman is a beautifully-written story, with theological underpinnings and mystical qualities, in which the author tackles such weighty concepts as love and loss, good and evil, destiny and free will. That he is able to accomplish that so artfully in so few pages is a testament to a very sophisticated talent for story telling and strong, well-developed technical skills.
The prose is tight and flows seamlessly. The dialogue and internal monologue of the narrator/protagonist are at times almost breath-takingly poignant. The characters are richly drawn and in some cases, brilliantly challenge established preconceptions. The issues are both timeless and timely and the story concept is innovative and original.
Despite the length, The Doorman is easily one of the most impressive stories I have read in a very long time and would, in my opinion, stand as an equal with award-winning prose.
April 2, 2014
A thought provoking story, beautifully written! Like all this author's work. At one point it gave me chills and a little gasp.
Alex is a great character many of us can relate too, going through the motions. Living in the world of expectations, hard choices and evil that has everyone asking questions I'm sure we have all asked...
can't wait for more from this author.
April 2, 2014
I love this author's work so i was excited to find out he had a new novelette due out, being priviledged to be given an advanced copy for an honest review, I read it and i can honestly say i was not disappointed.
It had me from the start wondering if the doorman (Lenny) and his predictions and time scales would be correct, however when the attack happened on Alex's place of work and how Lenny had kept him behind and made him late that day it brought up questions for Alex and me about Lenny and the weird, wacky and thought provoking questions and conversations that happened in the every day elevator rides to and from his living quarters.
Could Lenny be God?
Why did Lenny keep Alex talking longer the day of the accident?
How did Lenny know it would take 10 months for him to pluck up the courage to change jobs?
Etc etc. And so on, with many more questions than we all have answers for.
Perfectly executed answers, well written, researched and thoughtout.
It had me from the start wondering if the doorman (Lenny) and his predictions and time scales would be correct, however when the attack happened on Alex's place of work and how Lenny had kept him behind and made him late that day it brought up questions for Alex and me about Lenny and the weird, wacky and thought provoking questions and conversations that happened in the every day elevator rides to and from his living quarters.
Could Lenny be God?
Why did Lenny keep Alex talking longer the day of the accident?
How did Lenny know it would take 10 months for him to pluck up the courage to change jobs?
Etc etc. And so on, with many more questions than we all have answers for.
Perfectly executed answers, well written, researched and thoughtout.
April 15, 2014
Zack Love is known for his witty romantic comedy, Sex in the Title...however, this novelette is so different. It is about a man who is going through the motions of life with the awesome job, an apartment that anyone would love, and two women who adore him. He for all intents and purposes is living the dream, but something happens to change all of that. He is forced to re-evaluate his worth and goals in life. That's when tragedy strikes again on a larger scale causing him to question everything he believed. This made me cry...I don't know what kind of cry to call it, but my heart hurt. Zack, I LOVED this little story, keep them coming!
April 5, 2014
I'm posting this as my first reaction after reading The Doorman... I will come back to it, but I need a few days to process what I've read....
Bloody Hell...just finished "The Doorman".... wow............. speechless & have no idea how to write the review.... Bloody hell that was some deep shit! Wow!...smart, intelligent theories..my mind is ticking over.... I'm not usually lost for words...............
The Doorman, had ideas so complex, yet in a strange way so simple, that they made sense, if that makes sense... but I'm still getting my head around the bigger picture...
Amazing!
Bloody Hell...just finished "The Doorman".... wow............. speechless & have no idea how to write the review.... Bloody hell that was some deep shit! Wow!...smart, intelligent theories..my mind is ticking over.... I'm not usually lost for words...............
The Doorman, had ideas so complex, yet in a strange way so simple, that they made sense, if that makes sense... but I'm still getting my head around the bigger picture...
Amazing!
September 17, 2016
Dear Zack Love,
You should keep writing. Your books haunt the corners of my mind.
Love,
Amy Pope
You should keep writing. Your books haunt the corners of my mind.
Love,
Amy Pope
April 8, 2014
I have to say for a short story this was one of the most Intelligent and insightful books I have ever read. I wish it had been longer because I just couldn’t get enough of it. Zack has done it again and outdone himself with this amazing book. The Doormen proves that Zack is one remarkable writer and I can’t wait to read more from him. The Doorman is Brilliant.
I absolutely loved Alex. He had so much to say and was always looking for more in everything he did. He just felt like he should be doing more and he wanted to help people. I adored that about him. I absolutely enjoyed watching Alex grow into his own person and finally decide to do what was best for him.
Alex had some amazing people in his life that helped to mold him into the man he was. I loved how Orlee was so free spirited and had a fun outlook on life. She had such a beautiful spirit about her. What happens to her is just heartbreaking, I hated it. Then you have Anna. She was good for him as well. She gave him the security he felt that he needed. She was always so patient and kind to him.
Then you have the Doormen. They always had something inspiring to say to Alex. They gave him some of the most wonderful advice and seem to always believe in his ability to follow it. Lenny is the one who had me in awe. He is by far one of the most insightful men I have ever read about. Everything he said made perfect sense and was spoken so freely.
You will learn so much about each of these characters while reading this book and even learn things about yourself because you can’t help but reflect on the advice Lenny gives. Just be prepared to be in shock as well. I was so blown away by many scenes in the book, but one in particular will have you holding your breath to see what happens to Alex.
I absolutely loved Alex. He had so much to say and was always looking for more in everything he did. He just felt like he should be doing more and he wanted to help people. I adored that about him. I absolutely enjoyed watching Alex grow into his own person and finally decide to do what was best for him.
Alex had some amazing people in his life that helped to mold him into the man he was. I loved how Orlee was so free spirited and had a fun outlook on life. She had such a beautiful spirit about her. What happens to her is just heartbreaking, I hated it. Then you have Anna. She was good for him as well. She gave him the security he felt that he needed. She was always so patient and kind to him.
Then you have the Doormen. They always had something inspiring to say to Alex. They gave him some of the most wonderful advice and seem to always believe in his ability to follow it. Lenny is the one who had me in awe. He is by far one of the most insightful men I have ever read about. Everything he said made perfect sense and was spoken so freely.
You will learn so much about each of these characters while reading this book and even learn things about yourself because you can’t help but reflect on the advice Lenny gives. Just be prepared to be in shock as well. I was so blown away by many scenes in the book, but one in particular will have you holding your breath to see what happens to Alex.
May 20, 2014
5 starts just isn’t enough for this book.
Zack Love has done it again! It’s another great, amazing, terrific book.
This book took me to a place I didn’t think it was going to go. I don’t want to spoil the book for you so I won’t go into great detail, but if you are looking for a book that does any of the following this book is for you…
• Steals your breath
• Makes you remember
• Makes you hug the person you love the most
• Makes you re-evaluate your life and what you’re doing with it
• Teaches you that faith is what you make of it and what you believe it to be
If you said yes to any of those then this book is for you. His writing grabbed at my heart, held it and squeezed it. I know this book is fiction but there must be some real life experiences and emotions that are in this book. With the way that it is written you can tell that Zack is using this book to help him heal and I am truly grateful that I had the opportunity to read this book.
Ladies and Gentlemen do yourselves a favor and one click this read. Or for an even better option one click his anthology called Stories and Scripts: An Anthology which has 7 of Zack’s short stories under one roof for an amazing price.
Zack Love has done it again! It’s another great, amazing, terrific book.
This book took me to a place I didn’t think it was going to go. I don’t want to spoil the book for you so I won’t go into great detail, but if you are looking for a book that does any of the following this book is for you…
• Steals your breath
• Makes you remember
• Makes you hug the person you love the most
• Makes you re-evaluate your life and what you’re doing with it
• Teaches you that faith is what you make of it and what you believe it to be
If you said yes to any of those then this book is for you. His writing grabbed at my heart, held it and squeezed it. I know this book is fiction but there must be some real life experiences and emotions that are in this book. With the way that it is written you can tell that Zack is using this book to help him heal and I am truly grateful that I had the opportunity to read this book.
Ladies and Gentlemen do yourselves a favor and one click this read. Or for an even better option one click his anthology called Stories and Scripts: An Anthology which has 7 of Zack’s short stories under one roof for an amazing price.
September 6, 2016
Thought provoking story
The Doorman is a wonderfully thought provoking story. The writing is spot on, flows beautifully and allows the reader to make personal assessments by injecting them self into to the story as Alex. This is definitely a novella that could and should be picked up by book clubs as the opportunities for discussion are endless. The message is deep from a both an idealistic and pragmatic side. The premise of “What if God was one of us��� (Yes I stole that from Joan Osborne) plays out perfectly from the standpoint of the predictions that Lenny makes and Alex feels come to fruition. When Lenny uncharacteristically strikes up a conversation about stopping to smell the roses, it profoundly affects Alex and allows for the continuation of his existence.
I would not call this a religious story, but more a story that gets the reader thinking about the presence of a higher power and that a higher power can show up just about anywhere in any form. I highly suggest that you pick up The Doorman and allow yourself to mull over questions that are as old as time.
The Doorman is a wonderfully thought provoking story. The writing is spot on, flows beautifully and allows the reader to make personal assessments by injecting them self into to the story as Alex. This is definitely a novella that could and should be picked up by book clubs as the opportunities for discussion are endless. The message is deep from a both an idealistic and pragmatic side. The premise of “What if God was one of us��� (Yes I stole that from Joan Osborne) plays out perfectly from the standpoint of the predictions that Lenny makes and Alex feels come to fruition. When Lenny uncharacteristically strikes up a conversation about stopping to smell the roses, it profoundly affects Alex and allows for the continuation of his existence.
I would not call this a religious story, but more a story that gets the reader thinking about the presence of a higher power and that a higher power can show up just about anywhere in any form. I highly suggest that you pick up The Doorman and allow yourself to mull over questions that are as old as time.
March 30, 2015
I was gifted a copy by the Author in exchange of an honest review.
Zack Love hands down is a talented writer, this book was well delivered and it was a fast read, however the content was rich and storyline was very original.
The Doorman sees Alex, a typical businessman New Yorker, trapped in the monotony and hectic every day routine, who tired with the direction of where his life is heading decides to change career paths in order to do something he truly loves.
However, he starts noticing that his Doorman, Lenny has a very accurate view on life and conversations that before seem trivial now seem quite real, so Alex begins to question if he is some sort of holy being or even God himself, this at times allows Alex to start truly to examine his believes and true value of love, family, and ultimately life.
Its a very charming story, it touches a very sensitive subject of 11th of September, an occurrence that change America in so many ways and in this story has an impact into the outcome of the lead character.
Zack Love hands down is a talented writer, this book was well delivered and it was a fast read, however the content was rich and storyline was very original.
The Doorman sees Alex, a typical businessman New Yorker, trapped in the monotony and hectic every day routine, who tired with the direction of where his life is heading decides to change career paths in order to do something he truly loves.
However, he starts noticing that his Doorman, Lenny has a very accurate view on life and conversations that before seem trivial now seem quite real, so Alex begins to question if he is some sort of holy being or even God himself, this at times allows Alex to start truly to examine his believes and true value of love, family, and ultimately life.
Its a very charming story, it touches a very sensitive subject of 11th of September, an occurrence that change America in so many ways and in this story has an impact into the outcome of the lead character.
March 21, 2016
The Doorman is an inspiring and thought-provoking short story.
It struck a cord with me, especially since I live so close to NYC and could totally appreciate Alex' thoughts and reactions towards his experiences in the story.
For those of you who have read Zack Love's Sex in the Title, this novelette is a departure from Zack's witty, silly and humorous anecdotes, showcasing his amazing ability to write a thoughtful, deep and beautiful story.
If you haven't yet read any of Zack's works, I highly recommend this short story as an excellent introduction to his awesome writing!
It struck a cord with me, especially since I live so close to NYC and could totally appreciate Alex' thoughts and reactions towards his experiences in the story.
For those of you who have read Zack Love's Sex in the Title, this novelette is a departure from Zack's witty, silly and humorous anecdotes, showcasing his amazing ability to write a thoughtful, deep and beautiful story.
If you haven't yet read any of Zack's works, I highly recommend this short story as an excellent introduction to his awesome writing!
March 30, 2014
A thought provoking short story that takes place during elevator rides to the penthouse apartment. Most conversations are light and cheerful. When 9/11 happens there is discussion of why God would allow such a tragedy. Alex wonders if Lenny is God,since he talked for so long that morning Alex was late for work.
I enjoyed this story.
I received this novelette as a gift from the author for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
I enjoyed this story.
I received this novelette as a gift from the author for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
March 30, 2014
A thought provoking short story that takes place during elevator rides to the penthouse apartment. Most conversations are light and cheerful. When 9/11 happens there is discussion of why God would allow such a tragedy. Alex wonders if Lenny is God,since he talked for so long that morning Alex was late for work.
I enjoyed this story.
I received this novelette as a gift from the author for my honest review.
I enjoyed this story.
I received this novelette as a gift from the author for my honest review.
April 4, 2014
Another of Zack Love's wonderful insightful reads.Its 5 stars from me,it left me asking a lot of Alex's questions. Lenny is a great character.A very well written novelette from a great author.
October 23, 2024
I am conflicted between four and five stars, but I will settle on four.
April 5, 2014
What if God were one of us?
Life is a series of choices. If one believes in the concept of Free Will, those choices are all up to us, as individuals, to make them; thus, our lives are comprised of one choice on one topic which leads to a second choice on a second topic which leads to a third and so on and so forth until we've made all the decisions that can be made in a lifetime---and that is our life. It's a string of 'yes or no' answers to questions we may not even be aware are being posed at the time.
The Doorman focuses on one of the most basic choices a person will make: what do I want to do when I grow up? What kind of job do I want?
It's a basic choice, yet it's so important in the grand scheme of things because isn't our job what takes up the majority of our lives? We may have family -husbands or wives, children, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandchildren, a whole extended clan- or hobbies -reading, writing, painting, photography, dancing, hiking, skydiving, underwater basket-weaving even- but how many hours of one's life do they devote to their family or their hobby in comparison to the number they spend at their job? Even working only the base 40 hours a week, adding in an hour for a commute five days a week, and an hour for lunch those same five along with say another hour to go with that to prepare for work---well, that totals up to 55 hours in 5 days which breaks down to 11 hours out of 24 spent at work or getting ready for work, going to work, eating to keep working, and say a person sleeps a full 8 hours (Though, let's be honest here, who does that? Who has the luxury of 8 hours of sleep every night?), well, that leaves us only 5 hours a day for everything else in our lives.
5 hours for our lovers, families, hobbies, and interests.
Given that one will spend approximately 65% -if not more- of their life working, that seems like such a paltry number of hours to simply live, doesn't it?
This story focuses on Alex Becker trying to decide how he wants to live his life after he gets everything he thought he wanted. He's got the job of his supposed dreams which pays more than any member of his family has ever made and he lives in the nicest residence his family has ever seen and the biggest decision in his life seems to start out being having to choose which girl he wants to date more: Orlee or Anna.
Alex grows up a lot in the course of this short piece. He learns that reality is often harsher than our dreams as well as that some decisions can only be made once. Over the entirety of the piece, his doorman, Lenny, broadens his perspective on life, what he wants from it, what he could get out of it, and what he won't get out of it if he keeps torturing himself working a job that is destroying him. He experiences death, grief, and makes a decision that changes his life all because his doorman opens his eyes to all the world he's missing when he's not 'stopping to smell the roses.'
A single decision can make a life or take it. Alex gets to see that first hand and he's made better for it. His character progression is thought-provoking, genuine, and was one that I feel any reader should be able to relate to since it's made up of all the choices that we typically all have to make at some point in our lives or another.
Theology is something dear to me so it was interesting to see the question posed as to what does it take to make one 'God'? I liked seeing Alex's thoughts on the subject and it amused me though I wouldn't call this a theological study as much as a philosophical journey through a time of change in one man's life.
Personally, I'd give this one five stars for a great short read worth thinking about for at least twice as long as it takes to read it.
***Note: My review was based on a complimentary copy of the work provided to This Redhead LOVES Books Blog in exchange for an honest opinion. I have since purchased the piece to add it to my permanent library.***
Life is a series of choices. If one believes in the concept of Free Will, those choices are all up to us, as individuals, to make them; thus, our lives are comprised of one choice on one topic which leads to a second choice on a second topic which leads to a third and so on and so forth until we've made all the decisions that can be made in a lifetime---and that is our life. It's a string of 'yes or no' answers to questions we may not even be aware are being posed at the time.
The Doorman focuses on one of the most basic choices a person will make: what do I want to do when I grow up? What kind of job do I want?
It's a basic choice, yet it's so important in the grand scheme of things because isn't our job what takes up the majority of our lives? We may have family -husbands or wives, children, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandchildren, a whole extended clan- or hobbies -reading, writing, painting, photography, dancing, hiking, skydiving, underwater basket-weaving even- but how many hours of one's life do they devote to their family or their hobby in comparison to the number they spend at their job? Even working only the base 40 hours a week, adding in an hour for a commute five days a week, and an hour for lunch those same five along with say another hour to go with that to prepare for work---well, that totals up to 55 hours in 5 days which breaks down to 11 hours out of 24 spent at work or getting ready for work, going to work, eating to keep working, and say a person sleeps a full 8 hours (Though, let's be honest here, who does that? Who has the luxury of 8 hours of sleep every night?), well, that leaves us only 5 hours a day for everything else in our lives.
5 hours for our lovers, families, hobbies, and interests.
Given that one will spend approximately 65% -if not more- of their life working, that seems like such a paltry number of hours to simply live, doesn't it?
This story focuses on Alex Becker trying to decide how he wants to live his life after he gets everything he thought he wanted. He's got the job of his supposed dreams which pays more than any member of his family has ever made and he lives in the nicest residence his family has ever seen and the biggest decision in his life seems to start out being having to choose which girl he wants to date more: Orlee or Anna.
Alex grows up a lot in the course of this short piece. He learns that reality is often harsher than our dreams as well as that some decisions can only be made once. Over the entirety of the piece, his doorman, Lenny, broadens his perspective on life, what he wants from it, what he could get out of it, and what he won't get out of it if he keeps torturing himself working a job that is destroying him. He experiences death, grief, and makes a decision that changes his life all because his doorman opens his eyes to all the world he's missing when he's not 'stopping to smell the roses.'
A single decision can make a life or take it. Alex gets to see that first hand and he's made better for it. His character progression is thought-provoking, genuine, and was one that I feel any reader should be able to relate to since it's made up of all the choices that we typically all have to make at some point in our lives or another.
Theology is something dear to me so it was interesting to see the question posed as to what does it take to make one 'God'? I liked seeing Alex's thoughts on the subject and it amused me though I wouldn't call this a theological study as much as a philosophical journey through a time of change in one man's life.
Personally, I'd give this one five stars for a great short read worth thinking about for at least twice as long as it takes to read it.
***Note: My review was based on a complimentary copy of the work provided to This Redhead LOVES Books Blog in exchange for an honest opinion. I have since purchased the piece to add it to my permanent library.***
May 15, 2014
This was my first piece of work I have read by Zack Love. I have been wanting to for what seems like forever. So I was so excited to get finally get to sit and read his work.
Alex has just landed a high paying new job on Wall Street and also has moved into a condo on a Fifth Street. Of course he likes having a high paying job but he wants to do something more meaningful. He works so much that he doesn't actually get to enjoy life so really what is the point of making so much money of you can't enjoy it. The only people he talks to outside of work and his father and his girlfriend Anna but really his friends are his doormen, Lenny and Serge. They seem to know everything especially Lenny, if Alex asks him about a random fact he knows the answer....and he has the thought that maybe Lenny is God but then he couldn't be. When tragedy strikes and Alex has been saved from it, he asks himself again Could Lenny be God? He seems to know it all....
This Novelette really had me thinking. It's short but really gets your mind going about life and even about death. And of course the in between....what is meaningful for you during your time on earth? Is money or happiness more important? Why does God let things bad happen?
I really enjoyed the story and there was so much in it even though it's a novelette. And just a side note, I am Armenian and was surprised that the Armenian Genocide was mentioned. We don't hear about it much...
Can't wait to read more of the Short Stories, Screenplays and Comedies from Mr. Zack Love.
Quotes:
"I want to feel like I am making a difference in this world. And I want some time for living rather than just working. Life is for the living, isn't it? It can't be all just for working."
I couldn't explain Lenny any other way. But eventually I came to my senses and realize that he was just one of those game show freaks with an encyclopedia memory. That didn't make him God, did it? Would a God proclaim so regularly how much he likes Patsy's Pizza.
"But how would you even know that what you were experiencing was euphoric? Don't you need some pain to recognize and savor pleasure?"
Alex has just landed a high paying new job on Wall Street and also has moved into a condo on a Fifth Street. Of course he likes having a high paying job but he wants to do something more meaningful. He works so much that he doesn't actually get to enjoy life so really what is the point of making so much money of you can't enjoy it. The only people he talks to outside of work and his father and his girlfriend Anna but really his friends are his doormen, Lenny and Serge. They seem to know everything especially Lenny, if Alex asks him about a random fact he knows the answer....and he has the thought that maybe Lenny is God but then he couldn't be. When tragedy strikes and Alex has been saved from it, he asks himself again Could Lenny be God? He seems to know it all....
This Novelette really had me thinking. It's short but really gets your mind going about life and even about death. And of course the in between....what is meaningful for you during your time on earth? Is money or happiness more important? Why does God let things bad happen?
I really enjoyed the story and there was so much in it even though it's a novelette. And just a side note, I am Armenian and was surprised that the Armenian Genocide was mentioned. We don't hear about it much...
Can't wait to read more of the Short Stories, Screenplays and Comedies from Mr. Zack Love.
Quotes:
"I want to feel like I am making a difference in this world. And I want some time for living rather than just working. Life is for the living, isn't it? It can't be all just for working."
I couldn't explain Lenny any other way. But eventually I came to my senses and realize that he was just one of those game show freaks with an encyclopedia memory. That didn't make him God, did it? Would a God proclaim so regularly how much he likes Patsy's Pizza.
"But how would you even know that what you were experiencing was euphoric? Don't you need some pain to recognize and savor pleasure?"
May 1, 2014
DIVINITY, SIMPLICITY, TRANQUILITY
ZACK LOVE has captured our minds yet again,
So, listen up, take note and "One Click" him my friend.
He delves deep, reaches into your soul.
Makes you realize that we should be loving not cold.
My myness was boTh new and old,
I was the centre of the universe to behold.
Paying off my educational debt witH layers of my soul.
This is life so I have been told.
Best years of your life spent in an officeE block,
Loved ones living life without you to watch.
Obessin' and rushin', reputation to maintain,
Can money buy you happiness? So vain.
How Does one find happiness? With quality or quantity?
Can you decide which will give you your sanity.
Are yOu wedded to your work and ways?
Do something spontaneous, live for today!
Can you say yOu have fully lived?
If you live to work or work to live?
Energetic enthusiasm foR your job-never pitying your fate.
Or wishing for a better one, it's never too late.
Live life like there is no toMorrow, love like it is your first.
Just be who your soul wants you to be, what can it hurt?
We live in a world where we Are free to make choices,
Those choices can be good and evil, voices.
Never underestimate the power of good.
An unmeasurable strength to be uNderstood.
Can you see the light where there was darkness?
The higher power lives in each one of us.
Pain and pleasure go hand in hand, he told me today.
That was your choice. You didn't have to stay.
Who is he, maybe divine?
Is it just me or is everyone blind?
How can one person be right all of the time?
Is my deduction off or am I out of my mind?.........
"THE DOORMAN" by ZACK LOVE makes you analyze and think.
Then you turn the page and read, blink, think, finally a wink! ;-)
Get this title and add it to your list!
I am 100% sure you will not be able to resist!
This review contains quotes straight from the book,
Buy it now! And have a look!
Thanks again Zack for another powerful story!
ZACK LOVE has captured our minds yet again,
So, listen up, take note and "One Click" him my friend.
He delves deep, reaches into your soul.
Makes you realize that we should be loving not cold.
My myness was boTh new and old,
I was the centre of the universe to behold.
Paying off my educational debt witH layers of my soul.
This is life so I have been told.
Best years of your life spent in an officeE block,
Loved ones living life without you to watch.
Obessin' and rushin', reputation to maintain,
Can money buy you happiness? So vain.
How Does one find happiness? With quality or quantity?
Can you decide which will give you your sanity.
Are yOu wedded to your work and ways?
Do something spontaneous, live for today!
Can you say yOu have fully lived?
If you live to work or work to live?
Energetic enthusiasm foR your job-never pitying your fate.
Or wishing for a better one, it's never too late.
Live life like there is no toMorrow, love like it is your first.
Just be who your soul wants you to be, what can it hurt?
We live in a world where we Are free to make choices,
Those choices can be good and evil, voices.
Never underestimate the power of good.
An unmeasurable strength to be uNderstood.
Can you see the light where there was darkness?
The higher power lives in each one of us.
Pain and pleasure go hand in hand, he told me today.
That was your choice. You didn't have to stay.
Who is he, maybe divine?
Is it just me or is everyone blind?
How can one person be right all of the time?
Is my deduction off or am I out of my mind?.........
"THE DOORMAN" by ZACK LOVE makes you analyze and think.
Then you turn the page and read, blink, think, finally a wink! ;-)
Get this title and add it to your list!
I am 100% sure you will not be able to resist!
This review contains quotes straight from the book,
Buy it now! And have a look!
Thanks again Zack for another powerful story!
April 5, 2014
ARC given in exchange for honest review
This is MY OPINION of the story. Please read the synopsis and any and all content warnings given by the author before deciding on purchasing the book. Please be kind and leave a review when finished reading.
We all have heard the song “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” by Alan Jackson. We all know it describes September 11, 2001. I know exactly where I was. I will never forget. That day brings many memories for me. I am sure it does for everyone. What it didn’t do was question my faith. It did for others, though. It did for Alex.
Alex is a man who is moving up in life. Helping is parents live comfortably and enjoying the comforts money can buy. He soon starts questioning his life after he continuously works 15 hour days and weekends though and wonders if there is more he could do.
Alex lives at 777 Fifth Avenue. This is where he meets Lenny, the Doorman. Lenny is not usually shy about voicing his opinion or giving out information. The more Alex gets to know Lenny the more he starts to wonder how Lenny knows all these random facts.
Alex is a self-professed Atheist but Lenny is making Alex think of spirituality. Is there a higher being? Can Lenny really be this smart? How can he know things that are happening around the world?
Alex wants to change his life but doing so will cause a drastic pay cut. Alex’s dad is not too happy with that but Lenny tells Alex he will make the change in 10 months.
So, where was Alex on September 11, 2001? Running late to work…..why? This would be the first time he was ever late. Alex really begins to think about things after this…..
The Doorman is a book that will make you think. It will make you question your beliefs. It will make you make a choice at the end….
The Doorman is an amazing story and will leave you with one question at the end…Who is Lenny?
This is MY OPINION of the story. Please read the synopsis and any and all content warnings given by the author before deciding on purchasing the book. Please be kind and leave a review when finished reading.
We all have heard the song “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” by Alan Jackson. We all know it describes September 11, 2001. I know exactly where I was. I will never forget. That day brings many memories for me. I am sure it does for everyone. What it didn’t do was question my faith. It did for others, though. It did for Alex.
Alex is a man who is moving up in life. Helping is parents live comfortably and enjoying the comforts money can buy. He soon starts questioning his life after he continuously works 15 hour days and weekends though and wonders if there is more he could do.
Alex lives at 777 Fifth Avenue. This is where he meets Lenny, the Doorman. Lenny is not usually shy about voicing his opinion or giving out information. The more Alex gets to know Lenny the more he starts to wonder how Lenny knows all these random facts.
Alex is a self-professed Atheist but Lenny is making Alex think of spirituality. Is there a higher being? Can Lenny really be this smart? How can he know things that are happening around the world?
Alex wants to change his life but doing so will cause a drastic pay cut. Alex’s dad is not too happy with that but Lenny tells Alex he will make the change in 10 months.
So, where was Alex on September 11, 2001? Running late to work…..why? This would be the first time he was ever late. Alex really begins to think about things after this…..
The Doorman is a book that will make you think. It will make you question your beliefs. It will make you make a choice at the end….
The Doorman is an amazing story and will leave you with one question at the end…Who is Lenny?
August 30, 2016
This book is about Alex. Alex was a atheist until he met Lenny the doorman. Lenny gave him actual proof his skeptical mind always demanded. He sold his dotcom to go work on Wall Street. But he really wants to be a teacher of math and English to inner city kids. He wants to move impoverished youth from despair to dreams. This book is a standalone.
Alex is a very strong individual and he thought at first that he wanted to work on Wall Street and make money to help support his parents. He has two girlfriends Orlee and Anna. Orlee is his girlfriend of two plus years, she is very adventurous, she is also very opinionated. Anna is Alex's girlfriend of two months to me she seems very caring. Lenny is a very down to earth man, He is full of information. The characters are very likeable.
I truly enjoyed this book. I liked that the characters interacted really well together. I especially liked Lenny. The authors style of writing is really good. This is my second book by Zack Love and it will definitely not be my last.
I loved this book! I loved that it was a fast paced. Zack Love is a great author.
November 1, 2014
After reading Sex in the Title I wanted to read more of Zack's work and I was surprised by his diversity as an author! I found The Doorman to be an enthralling, thought provoking read that had me questioning my friends and family all day about their beliefs and whereabouts during the September 11 attacks. It has to be said I love the way Zack writes! For me he has found the perfect balance between keeping my mind active and alert enough that I'm not mentally bored and keeping me relaxed enough to still enjoy reading it! I thought the characters were like your normal everyday people, people that you could easily walk past on the street. The story, though short, is packed full of events that kept me thinking well after I had finished it! I love how he has combined what some will see as controversial topics to create a flawless intellectual, thought provoking masterpiece! The only thing I will say is that I would have liked it to be longer, but that is purely because I loved the way I reacted to it not because it actually needs to be longer! For me this book didn't lack in any aspect. Another amazing read from Mr. Love!!
April 6, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review
I must say that this short story had my mind going in circles and thinking about things. I must have sat there for an hour pondering what I would have thought and if I would of had the same conclusion Alex did about the Lenny, The Doorman.
This does touch upon some sensitive material for some so please be aware of that, but also read with an open mind and allow yourself to just be in the moment. I think we all have our opinions but they are opinions; flexible and can be changed. A lot of people don't realize that life is about choices NOT circumstance. It made me happy to see such a point brought up in this Novelette!
A quote that I took from this that I thought was very interesting:
"Evil awakens goodness from its sleep. When good people take what they have for granted, they can lose it to evil"
5 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
I must say that this short story had my mind going in circles and thinking about things. I must have sat there for an hour pondering what I would have thought and if I would of had the same conclusion Alex did about the Lenny, The Doorman.
This does touch upon some sensitive material for some so please be aware of that, but also read with an open mind and allow yourself to just be in the moment. I think we all have our opinions but they are opinions; flexible and can be changed. A lot of people don't realize that life is about choices NOT circumstance. It made me happy to see such a point brought up in this Novelette!
A quote that I took from this that I thought was very interesting:
"Evil awakens goodness from its sleep. When good people take what they have for granted, they can lose it to evil"
5 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
April 7, 2014
I am fascinated by Zack Love's style of writing. The way he can easily weave words into a captivating story is incredible.
His latest, The Doorman, is about the comings and goings of Alex, a resident of 777 Fifth Avenue in New York City. We learn about his relationships and career choices, but mostly, we are introduced to his friendship with Lenny. Lenny is the doorman, a very talkative 47 year old who seems to know everything about everything. This fact is what causes Alex to believe Lenny is God. Their conversations hold your interest and the way they are described is amazing.
The arguments Alex presents for his belief in Lenny's divinity and Lenny's response are something spectacular. You are given glimpses into religion and although you might or might not change your current views, you will definitely be made to think. The ending....all I can say is WOW!
His latest, The Doorman, is about the comings and goings of Alex, a resident of 777 Fifth Avenue in New York City. We learn about his relationships and career choices, but mostly, we are introduced to his friendship with Lenny. Lenny is the doorman, a very talkative 47 year old who seems to know everything about everything. This fact is what causes Alex to believe Lenny is God. Their conversations hold your interest and the way they are described is amazing.
The arguments Alex presents for his belief in Lenny's divinity and Lenny's response are something spectacular. You are given glimpses into religion and although you might or might not change your current views, you will definitely be made to think. The ending....all I can say is WOW!
April 5, 2014
A Fantastic Story!! definitely a most read.
The Doorman is the newest work from the sexy author Zack Love and gotta say is like a ride in and roller coaster ( very exciting, addictive, fast, short, leaves you wanting more, a life changing experience)
This short story is about a man going to that time in life when you question what am I doing to make the world a better place? Am i doing what i really want in life? He surly has the perfect job, the apartment, the girl. This is when he meets his doorman a human he thinks has all the divine-right answers in the world into a point he really think his God do to the accuracy of the events they encounter in a few minutes of conversations they have everyday.
Zack you outdid your self in this one. Absolutely Brilliant!!!
The Doorman is the newest work from the sexy author Zack Love and gotta say is like a ride in and roller coaster ( very exciting, addictive, fast, short, leaves you wanting more, a life changing experience)
This short story is about a man going to that time in life when you question what am I doing to make the world a better place? Am i doing what i really want in life? He surly has the perfect job, the apartment, the girl. This is when he meets his doorman a human he thinks has all the divine-right answers in the world into a point he really think his God do to the accuracy of the events they encounter in a few minutes of conversations they have everyday.
Zack you outdid your self in this one. Absolutely Brilliant!!!
April 6, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review. This Novelette is amazing! Zack Love is so talented,and honestly leaves you wanting so much more. Such talent. I am more of a contemporary romance kind of girl. But this novelette really pulled me in. This was some pretty deep stuff. I was left with an ache in my heart after reading us. I am a christian, but this story made me think about what if God really was among us or one of us? This novelette left me with a bundle of emotions I am still dealing with LoL. I am now a huge fan of Zack Love and can't wait to read more of his work!
April 22, 2014
Strong recommend!
If you’re a voracious reader, you can usually tell within a page or two whether you’re in the capable hands of a great writer. In the case of Zack Love’s “The Doorman,” I knew by the second paragraph.
Mr. Love has crafted a deeply-philosophical and beautiful story, which cleverly masquerades as a breezy, entertaining read. I found it to be accessible and not-at-all preachy, even as it snuck up on me and made me feel and think. “The Doorman” is one of the rare books I know I’ll read again -- probably once or twice a year, at least -- whenever I need to feel grounded. I’ve already downloaded and look forward to reading Mr. Love’s other work.
If you’re a voracious reader, you can usually tell within a page or two whether you’re in the capable hands of a great writer. In the case of Zack Love’s “The Doorman,” I knew by the second paragraph.
Mr. Love has crafted a deeply-philosophical and beautiful story, which cleverly masquerades as a breezy, entertaining read. I found it to be accessible and not-at-all preachy, even as it snuck up on me and made me feel and think. “The Doorman” is one of the rare books I know I’ll read again -- probably once or twice a year, at least -- whenever I need to feel grounded. I’ve already downloaded and look forward to reading Mr. Love’s other work.
April 5, 2014
Ever since I read Zack Love's Sex in the Title, I've been a fan of his writing. It's thought-provoking and always conveys an impressive emotional depth. The Doorman is one of those stories that gives you pause and makes you consider the possibilities in life. It's well-written, displays a sensitivity and depth of character that is refreshing and forces the reader to consider the what-ifs and life's grand scheme. As the protagonist, Alex, begins to question his life and its meaning, he also comes to wonder if his doorman is God or perhaps a guardian angel of sorts. This is a story that will stay with you and leave you imagining the possibilities...
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