The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is the January book club selection for the Second Monday Night Book Club. It also happens to be a selection for the Oprah Book Club -- that moniker usually guarantees that the book will be one to which I have a mediocre reaction. In the past, I thought her book club picks always were somewhat predictable tales of woe and misery. The more the main character of the book would fight for her existence and dignity, the more Oprah praised it. It was the same premise, over and over again.
This story has an original story line. Edgar, a mute boy, lives with his parents in rural northern Wisconsin where they raise a unique breed of dog. A tragic turn of events results in family turmoil and the grief-stricken Edgar runs away from home in the company of three of the dogs. Edgar's bewilderment and sorrow is at the core of much of this story. It is ultimately a story of relationships and betrayal.
I actually kind of liked this book. Didn't love it, but liked it a lot. I think it could have used some sharper editing in parts. It also is a bit too melodramatic for my taste. Nevertheless, a solid debut novel by Wroblewski. I will be interested in hearing the reactions of the other members of the Second Monday Night Book Club.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment