"The Colossus: A Novel" by Opie Percival Read is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. The novel seems to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships through the experiences of the main character, Henry DeGolyer. As he navigates a life filled with hardship due to his tragic childhood, readers meet a variety of characters that impact his journey, setting the stage for his eventual transformation. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Henry DeGolyer, who reflects on his difficult childhood, marked by the death of his mother and a distant, alcoholic father. After being raised in a Foundlings' Home and by an old Italian woman, Henry struggles to become a journalist, facing both the highs and lows of a reporter's life. His journey takes a decisive turn when he is invited to Costa Rica by a young man named Henry Sawyer, which leads him to unexpected connections and revelations about his past. As he engages with new characters and situations, the groundwork is laid for exploring notions of heritage and personal responsibility amid the backdrop of a shifting family dynamic. (This is an automatically generated summary.)