A stunning story of youthful determination and a nascent technology that would change the world.
Sheridan's descriptive passages capture the same immersive beauty and vivacity of a photograph, and he regularly brings forgotten details of the old smoky metropolis to life.
Tim rings with authenticity that readers will relish, inspired as it was by the real Tim O'Sullivan's early experiences. Making readers lose themselves in a fictional history is a masterful skill, which Sheridan demonstrates in spades throughout this brilliant historical portrait.❏
Book Review on Goodreads, ★★★★★
‘I am looking for that indefinable something which conveys my artistic vision’
– History comes alive!
Author Daniel A. Sheridan studied photojournalism and the history of photography at New York University and served as a darkroom technician at The Photography Workshop, as editor and photographer at Low-RANGE magazine, and as a drummer in the band The Immigrants.
TIM is his debut novel – and who better to write this book than Daniel?! For those unfamiliar, Timothy H. O’Sullivan (1840 – 1882) was a photographer widely known for his photographs of the US Civil War and the American West.
Bringing to our attention the special gifts of the often-overlooked Timothy H. O’Sullivan, the apprentice to the famous photographer Matthew Brady, this immensely entertaining novel recreates the mid-nineteenth century and an important overview of the history of photography.
The interaction between Tim and Brady is beautifully rendered, offering insights into the development from daguerreotype to photograph – or in Brady’s advice to Tim, ‘The war over photography... The French process versus the English process. We must choose our allies carefully and know our enemy. You see, we’ve been working with the daguerreotype process for these last ten years…’
By inserting his own progress in photography alongside Tim’s progress, Daniel makes this book ring true and even more accessible in honoring the art and history of photography. This is a fascinating and beautifully written book – one that deserves a very wide audience. Highly recommended. ❏
Step back into the bustling streets of 1850s New York with Tim, a vivid and immersive historical novel that blends the wonder of Willy Wonka with the grit of Gangs of New York. Through the eyes of ten-year-old Timothy O’Sullivan, we experience the magic of early photography, the spectacle of Barnum’s Museum, and the frenzy surrounding Swedish singing sensation Jenny Lind. Sheridan masterfully transports readers to a time when ambition, art, and showmanship collided in fascinating ways.
"This is more than just a coming-of-age story—it’s a tribute to the pioneers of photography and a love letter to 19th-century New York."
As Tim apprentices at Mathew Brady’s renowned daguerreotype studio, he becomes entangled in the city’s vibrant yet cutthroat world. From shadowing Brady in his quest to photograph Jenny Lind to discovering the oddities inside Barnum’s Museum, every moment is filled with historical richness and intrigue. The detailed storytelling captures the textures, smells, and energy of a rapidly evolving New York, making readers feel like they are truly there.
Sheridan’s writing balances the innocence of a young boy’s journey with the stark realities of an era shaped by industrial progress and social change. Tim’s curiosity and resilience make him a compelling protagonist, while real-life figures like Brady and Barnum add depth to the narrative. This is more than just a coming-of-age story—it’s a tribute to the pioneers of photography and a love letter to 19th-century New York.
A must-read for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and lovers of atmospheric storytelling. Tim is a beautifully woven tale where ambition meets artistry, and where a single photograph has the power to change everything. Don’t miss this gem! ❏
Some books tell a story. Others develop a photograph, layer by layer, until an entire world is illuminated. *Tim* by Daniel A. Sheridan is one such novel—a literary daguerreotype that captures not just a moment in time but thespirit of a city, an art form, and a young boy’s awakening to ambition and possibility.
At its core, *Tim* is about vision—not just the vision required to compose a perfect photograph, but the vision to see beyond what is immediately visible. Young Timothy O’Sullivan, an ordinary boy from Staten Island, is thrust into an extraordinary world when he is sent to apprentice under Mathew Brady, the legendary pioneer of American photography. Through Tim’s eyes, we don’t just observe 1850s New York—we step inside it, feeling the hum of Broadway, the allure of Barnum’s Museum, and the raw energy of a city on the verge of modernity.
"Through Tim’s eyes, we don’t just observe 1850s New York—we step inside it, feeling the hum of Broadway, the allure of Barnum’s Museum, and the raw energy of a city on the verge of modernity."
The novel opens on September 11, 1850, as Jenny Lind, the “Swedish Nightingale,” prepares for her historic American debut. The entire city is bewitched by her presence, yet one man—Mathew Brady—cannot capture her likeness. P.T. Barnum, the master showman, guards her image with the same fervor that modern celebrities fight to control their own narratives. This battle over visibility, access, and artistry becomes the novel’s undercurrent, mirroring photography’s own struggle to establish itself as a serious art form.
Sheridan’s writing is almost photographic in its detail—he doesn’t just describe the world, he develops it like an image emerging from a chemical bath. The glow of gas lamps on rain-slicked streets, the metallic scent of the daguerreotype studio, the nervous energy of an apprentice hoping to prove himself—all of it is vivid, tangible, alive.
But what makes *Tim* remarkable is its deeper question: What does it mean to capture a moment? Is a photograph merely a reflection, or is it a form of immortality? Tim’s journey is not just about mastering a craft; it’s about understanding the power of perspective. ❏
Brad Christenson - Reviewer
Film Content & Creative Specialist | Kew Media
Tim: The Story of Timothy H. O'Sullivan as a Young Apprentice at Mathew Brady's Studio is an exceptional tale that skillfully transports readers back to a pivotal moment in America's history. The author, Daniel A. Sheridan, weaves a stunning narrative of youthful determination and the revolutionary technology of daguerreotypes that would shape the world.
The protagonist, young Tim, finds himself unexpectedly apprenticed to the legendary Mathew Brady, a renowned daguerreotypist with a studio on Broadway. This turn of events marks a dramatic shift from Tim's expected path as a carpenter, and it sets the stage for a captivating coming-of-age story. Through Sheridan's vivid prose, readers are immersed in historical New York, where the buzz of artistic ambition meets the spectacle of P.T. Barnum's American Museum.
Tim's journey unfolds with enthralling twists and turns, as he becomes an invaluable companion to Brady, proving his worth through cleverness and determination. The book's inclusion of photographic lore and technical details of daguerreotypes adds a layer of authenticity, making the story even more immersive. The encounters with iconic figures like P.T. Barnum and the enchanting Miss Jenny Lind add depth and excitement to Tim's exploration of the city's vibrant past.
Sheridan's descriptive prowess shines brightly, painting the scenes with the same depth and vividness as a photograph itself. His ability to breathe life into forgotten details of old New York creates a rich and immersive reading experience.
"This book holds all the ingredients for a visually stunning and emotionally engaging film adaptation. It is a riveting journey that will leave audiences mesmerized and inspired by the enduring power of art and the human spirit."
While the book is largely authentic in its portrayal of the era, a few editorial imperfections can be polished, but they do not detract from the overall brilliance of the story. The engaging plot may take a bit of time to fully take off, but once Tim finds his place at Brady's studio, the pace becomes gripping, carrying readers along on a fascinating adventure.
A remarkable aspect of "Tim" is the seamless blend of fiction and historical authenticity, inspired by the real-life experiences of the photographer Timothy H. O'Sullivan. Sheridan's masterful storytelling allows readers to lose themselves in a fictional history without feeling like they are reading a dry historical account. The result is a brilliant historical portrait that captivates and resonates with readers long after the final page.
In conclusion, "Tim: The Story of Timothy H. O'Sullivan as a Young Apprentice at Mathew Brady's Studio" is an extraordinary work of historical fiction. With its authentic setting, compelling characters, and seamless blending of real history and captivating storytelling, this book holds all the ingredients for a visually stunning and emotionally engaging film adaptation. It is a riveting journey that will leave audiences mesmerized and inspired by the enduring power of art and the human spirit.❏
Goodreads review of "Tim" ★★★★★
Mansi Ramwani's Book Blog
"Daniel A. Sheridan masterfully combines historical facts with an engaging, almost cinematic narrative. Tim is a charming protagonist, and through his eyes, we get a front-row seat to the magic and chaos of 19th-century New York."
Witness history through the eyes of a young apprentice in Tim: The Story of Timothy H. O’Sullivan. This book is a fascinating blend of adventure, history, and photography, perfect for anyone who loves a rich historical setting with a touch of wonder.
Tim, a ten-year-old boy from Staten Island, finds himself thrown into the world of Mathew Brady’s famous daguerreotype studio. As he navigates his apprenticeship, the story takes us deep into old New York—where photography, curiosity, and ambition collide. From Barnum’s American Museum to the electric atmosphere surrounding Jenny Lind’s arrival, the book paints a vivid picture of a time when celebrity, innovation, and storytelling were reshaping the world.
Daniel A. Sheridan masterfully combines historical facts with an engaging, almost cinematic narrative. Tim is a charming protagonist, and through his eyes, we get a front-row seat to the magic and chaos of 19th-century New York.
If you love historical fiction that brings the past to life with heart and adventure, Tim is a must-read!❏
From the very first page, Tim by Daniel A. Sheridan transports readers to a world of wonder, ambition, and history. Set in 1850, the story follows young Timothy O’Sullivan as he embarks on an apprenticeship at Mathew Brady’s famous daguerreotype studio. The novel feels like a mix of Willy Wonka, Gangs of New York, and Let the Great World Spin—blending curiosity, grit, and historical intrigue. The backdrop of a bustling New York, filled with Barnum’s American Museum and the excitement surrounding Jenny Lind’s arrival, immediately pulls you in.
Sheridan’s writing is vivid and immersive, bringing the city’s streets and early photography studios to life. The book is more than just a historical tale—it’s a story of perseverance, artistry, and ambition. Through Tim’s eyes, we witness a world where photography is still in its infancy, and where access to fame is carefully guarded, as seen in the subplot involving P.T. Barnum and Jenny Lind. The balance between real historical events and fictionalized storytelling makes this book both educational and deeply engaging.
Overall, this book is a must-read for history lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a compelling coming-of-age story. The novel captures the magic of discovery—whether it’s through a camera lens or navigating a new world. Tim’s journey is one of growth, observation, and determination, making this book a rewarding and immersive read! ❏
Set in 1850, Tim by Daniel A. Sheridan is the story of how Timothy O'Sullivan, a ten-year-old immigrant Irish boy living on Staten Island, began working for Mathew Brady in his daguerreotype studio in New York City. The daguerreotype was all the rage and was called "The New Art." Brady takes Tim under his wing and gives him odd jobs while teaching him how a daguerreotype portrait is created. Tim gets to know New York City and meets some colorful and famous people there, including P. T. Barnum, famed writers, poets, and others who come to the studio to have their portraits made.
What I loved the most was reading about Tim's day-to-day experiences in nineteenth-century New York City. Sheridan paints a lively picture of the era and the city and explains many of the things that were going on at that time. What might seem quaint now was written with a gritty reality as seen through the eyes of young Tim. Sheridan did a great deal of research not only about the now-famous Brady and O'Sullivan but also about the New York lifestyle in 1850. I have always subscribed to the saying, "I Love New York," and thoroughly appreciated this part of the book.
Reading Tim was a sublime experience. The undercurrent of an emerging art form, the growing inspiration of Timothy O'Sullivan, Mathew Brady, and Daniel Sheridan, and the feeling that I witnessed the emergence of this new era of art satisfied and inspired me. For these reasons, this book deserves 5 out of 5 stars. I should also mention that the book was excellently edited, with no errors that I could find. A small notation on the book cover indicates this is Sheridan's first book about O'Sullivan. If he writes a second one, I'll be eager to read it!
Readers interested in the daguerreotype method, photography, or the work of Mathew Brady and Timothy O'Sullivan will enjoy this book because it is not a dry history; it is history creatively brought to life by a skilled writer who researched his material well. Readers who love New York City and the period just before the Civil War will also like this book. Younger readers will find it inspirational to see how a young boy from a low-income family found a deep interest early in life that later became his passion. ❏
Instagram review of "Tim" ★★★★★
by Naveen Santwani
Daniel A. Sheridan’s Tim immediately captivates with its rich historical setting and an intriguing premise. The story transports us to 1850s New York, a world filled with the early wonders of photography, bustling city streets, and the spectacle of Jenny Lind’s American debut. The first impression is that of stepping into a time machine, where history and fiction blend seamlessly. Author’s meticulous attention to period details makes the setting feel alive, immersing readers in the era’s sights, sounds, and even its ambitions.
"The novel’s themes—curiosity, ambition, and the pursuit of capturing fleeting moments—resonate deeply, reminding us of photography’s power in preserving history."
The story follows young Tim O’Sullivan, who apprentices at Mathew Brady’s daguerreotype studio and finds himself swept up in the high-stakes world of celebrity photography. His encounters with P.T. Barnum, Jenny Lind, and the gritty realities of 19th-century New York make for a compelling coming-of-age story. The writing is immersive and cinematic, evoking a sense of adventure while maintaining historical authenticity. The novel’s themes—curiosity, ambition, and the pursuit of capturing fleeting moments—resonate deeply, reminding us of photography’s power in preserving history.
Author masterfully balances history and storytelling, making Tim both educational and entertaining. The book highlights how determination and keen observation can shape destiny, a message that lingers beyond the last page. As a lover of history and storytelling, I found this journey through old New York fascinating, and Tim’s perspective made it all the more engaging. For readers who enjoy historical fiction with a mix of adventure and artistry, this book is a must-read! ❏
From The Author ~ The Photographs of Timothy H. O'Sullivan
I first learned about Timothy H. O'Sullivan while studying the history of photography at New York University in the spring of 1989. Professor Silver clicked back and forth in a slide show comparing O’Sullivan’s photograph, Ancient Ruins in the Cañon de Chelle, N.M., taken in 1873 with Ansel Adams’ view taken in 1942.
I became curious about this photographer who inspired Ansel Adams with his large-format, view camera. I then went to the Museum of Modern Art to view the photographs of O’Sullivan. At the time, I worked as a darkroom technician restoring old black and white photographs, while studying photojournalism at college.
New York University is an important place in the history of photography. This is where Brady's mentor, Samuel F.S.B. Morse, experimented with the new discovery he recently brought back from Paris — the Daguerreotype. His colleague, Dr. John William Draper, a chemistry professor, took one of the first known portraits with a camera on the rooftop of the university at Washington Square.
Little is known about O’Sullivan. As James D. Horan states in his biography, Timothy O’Sullivan: America’s Forgotten Photographer, “There were few clues, only his name, a four-line obituary...” Though we don’t know much about Tim. What remains are his photographs.
One day after class, I stood on the corner of Broadway and Tenth, the former location of one of Brady’s Studios. Looking at Grace Church, I thought about O'Sullivan and his photographs. Over to the right, down the street, is The Ritz where I saw The Replacements in 1986 perform songs from their album Tim. I then decided to write a book about O'Sullivan as a young apprentice at Mathew Brady's studio, combined with my experience as a darkroom technician, and the title would be Tim.❏
Goodreads review of "Tim" ★★★★★ 
Daniel A. Sheridan masterfully combines historical facts with an engaging, almost cinematic narrative. Tim is a charming protagonist, and through his eyes, we get a front-row seat to the magic and chaos of 19th-century New York.
Instagram and Goodreads review of "Tim" ★★★★★ 
What I loved the most was reading about Tim's day-to-day experiences in nineteenth-century New York City. Sheridan paints a lively picture of the era and the city and explains many of the things that were going on at that time. What might seem quaint now was written with a gritty reality as seen through the eyes of young Tim. Sheridan did a great deal of research not only about the now-famous Brady and O'Sullivan but also about the New York lifestyle in 1850. I have always subscribed to the saying, "I Love New York," and thoroughly appreciated this part of the book.
Instagram review of "Tim" ★★★★★ 
