Book review by Malcolm Vargas

Charging into a barroom full of drunken Hell’s Angels all alone and breaking a nose and a few bones along the way isn’t always the best way to rescue a damsel in distress, even for a 6’-3”, 200 pound San Diego police officer. But for protagonist Owen “Blue” Drew’s life is about living on the edge. David Jebb’s novel, The Thirteenth Time Zone iUniverse Press, $17.95, thethirteenthtimezone.com), is a fast paced page turner that covers an arduous journey from the sleazy crime ridden streets of San Diego to the lofty Himalayan Mountains. Jebb’s protagonist, is the most unlikely character to be ‘on the road’, in the sense of the classic book by Jack Kerouac. Every decade has it’s “On the Road,” drop outs, cop-out and pop-outs who go on a quest. Set in the early 70;s the plot parallels Kerouac’s. But this opt-out is from one of the most ultra conservative of American institutions, a special operations unit in the San Diego police force.
The way Jebb transitions from gang battle-ground to blue water and hiking escapades hints at his personal life experiences. Tracing the journey of Owen Drew, author David Jebb addresses all of the themes from the cultural revolution of the 60’s with an insight that goes beyond the canned hype of that era including racism, sexuality, gender roles, peace, love, recreational drugs, freedom, choice and institutions. His writing combines just the right balance of character introspection, which some have referred to as a kind of “Siddhartha with a badge” story. The journey is one through many different cultures, religions and countries. But in the end the protagonist’s journey becomes a process of transformation in the courageous pursuit of life. Raw, refreshing, entertaining, insightful and inspiring are just a few of the words used to describe Jebb’s story. This behind the scenes look at the internal and external struggles in a complex life of a battle hardened cop is a story that many can relate too, regardless if you are a truck driver, attorney or school teacher.
As the nation’s first wave of Baby Boomers turn 60 this year, many people are no doubt taking hard looks at their lives. Some will opt to stay the course, others will be compelled to change, to seek more, and to follow their dreams, no matter the odds. The Thirteenth Time Zone tells of such a journey, as one man leaves behind a life of tumult, stress and uncertainty in search of inner peace and enlightenment. People questioning their life’s meaning will especially relate to this novel, but anyone who has ever wondered “what if” will certainly find this a compelling and inspiring read. Owen’s final conclusion is that there is no higher purpose than man’s quest for love and understanding.
The Novel may be purchased on Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com or at Jebb’s site for a signed copy at: www.thethirteenthtimezone.com