'Carnation

The Many Lives of Ordell Clayton Hart

By: Matthew W Bertsch

Narrated by: Doug Sanders

After a spectacular explosion involving an armadillo, some homemade hooch, and very questionable decision-making, Ordell Clayton Hart finds himself at Heaven's gates — only to be told he's not quite ready for admission. Instead, he's given a unique opportunity for redemption: returning to Earth in various animal forms to learn what he's been missing in life.

Under the guidance of a witty but wise angel named Gabriel, Clay gets a second chance to learn a valuable life lesson. Each transformation brings him closer to understanding what he lost twenty years ago when his childhood sweetheart Maddie moved away.

Part spiritual journey, part slapstick comedy, 'Carnation: The Many Lives of Ordell Clayton Hart is a heartwarming tale about second chances, lost love, and finding redemption in the most unexpected places. With colorful Texas charm and a cast of unforgettable characters, this book reminds us that sometimes the path to heaven requires a few detours through the animal kingdom.

What could be described as a blue-collar mash-up of The Wizard of Oz and A Christmas Carol, this unique story combines humor, heart, and a touch of divine intervention to explore what it truly means to be human.

Originally written as a screenplay; converted into a book.

©2024, 2025 Matthew W Bertsch (P)2025 Matthew W Bertsch

Ordell’s Many Lives? I Need a Sequel for Each One!

I’ll admit, I picked up Carnation with a mix of curiosity and affection — curiosity about what kind of wild story this would be, and affection for the familiar Texas humor that runs through every page. What I didn’t expect was how quickly I’d be pulled into Ordell Clayton Hart’s bizarre, hilarious, and oddly touching afterlife adventure.

From the first explosive scene (yes, involving an armadillo and some homemade hooch), the book strikes a perfect balance between absurd comedy and heartfelt storytelling.

Underneath the humor and reincarnation hijinks, this is a story about regret, love, and the stubborn human need to make things right — even after death. The author has managed to write something that’s both riotously funny and unexpectedly moving.

If you like your redemption stories with a shot of whiskey and a talking animal or two, Carnation is well worth the read.

Wow great story with laughs and good storyline!

Just an overall great read! Great moral to the story! Lots of fun and laughter! Voice over on audible was spot on! Couldn’t put it down! Definitely worth the listen or read! Great job!!

sweet mercy!

This is a funny and entertaining story about a pest control worker who gets to experience life as several different animals after making a mess of his life. will he get another chance at love? great narration and music.

Great Story. Light hearted Humor. Great Message. Great read. Good Laughs.

Story reminded me of a message in the realm of a countryfied version of A Christmas Carol. The main character was relatable and the voice acting really seemed spot on. Great read and good laughs!

Introspective, Comical, and Enticing

My girlfriend and I listened to this while road tripping and couldn’t get enough, it was a great listen! It delivers a powerful message in a fun way.

When we see a random animal doing strange thing like waiting to cross at the crosswalk she goes “look it’s Ordell!” Definitely would recommend to others!