“The Connection Game” by SS Turner is December 2022’s BREW Readers’ Choice Award winner, and for a good reason.
At its core is Benny Basilworth, a character whose rare intellect and unique perspective set him apart. Benny’s ability to make connections that elude others propels him into the spotlight as a contestant on the television game show “The Connection Game.” Yet, beneath his brilliance lies vulnerability, as Benny and his family struggle to make ends meet in their basement apartment.
Turner’s novel captures the essence of Benny’s journey, from destitution to newfound opportunity, with humor, surprise, and wisdom. Benny’s unconventional vantage point, with only a tiny window offering a view of the feet of passersby, serves as the backdrop for his remarkable insights and connections. It is from this seemingly limited perspective that Benny begins to weave a tapestry of connections that have the power to change lives and turn the world upside down.
What sets “The Connection Game” apart is its ability to blend humor with profound insight, offering readers a refreshing and unforgettable reading experience. Turner deftly navigates Benny’s journey, seamlessly weaving together moments of levity with moments of introspection and revelation. The novel challenges readers to see the world through Benny’s eyes, to embrace the unexpected connections that lie beneath the surface of everyday life.
In a literary landscape filled with predictable plots and formulaic narratives, “The Connection Game” stands out as a breath of fresh air. Turner’s masterful storytelling and keen observations make this novel a compelling choice for the BREW Readers’ Choice Award. It is a novel unlike any other, one that leaves a lasting impression and sparks thought long after the final page is turned.
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More about the award
The BREW Readers’ Choice Award is a reader-driven literary prize presented monthly and annually. To qualify, books must have at least a 4.0 out of 5-star average review score. Readers then vote to select winners, with monthly winners advancing to the annual Readers’ Choice of the Year. Open to almost all genres, the award highlights books that resonate with readers, emphasizing popular appeal in addition to critical selection.
To know more about the BREW Readers’ Choice Award, click here.
View the list of all BREW Readers’ Choice Award Book of the Month winners by clicking here.
The annual BREW Readers’ Choice Award winners and finalists are here.
Explore all BREW book awards by clicking this link.
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This one’s on the top of my 2023 to-read list!
That’s great! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as you’re anticipating. Let me know your thoughts once you dive in!