The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

First, let me start off saying how LONG this book was. Its very intimidating once you see it and even hold it because of the weight. I guess 562 pages would do that to a book!

But after getting past the novels size (and weight) it was a pretty decent book. The entire book has an easy, soft flow to it, even in the exciting parts. This is what made me hold and continue to read during the slow parts since the author has such a uniquely detailed and beautiful writing style.

With such detail, the words grab you and bring your imagination into Edgar's world. I could vividly see the house he grew up in, the barn he trained the dogs in, the area's he would play in and especially all his adventures with the dogs .

I don't want to give to much away from the book but in sorts its a story of a boy, Edgar, born mute (not deaf) who bonds with a special dog, Almondine, who is Edgar's friend and bodyguard. He helps his family breed Sawtelle Dogs in Wisconsin on their farm. It also describes the hardships the family has to struggle through before and after he was born and beyond.

After a family tragedy, Edgar tries to figure out what happened to his father. While Edgar is overcome by grief he continues to try and prove that his Uncle had a hand in the tragedy but fails. Edgar is forced to run away into the wilderness. While he is out there beyond the farm, he learns how to survive on his own and grows up in so many ways. He chooses to return to the farm to face his Uncle and longs to be with the Sawtelle dogs.

I would recommend this book if you have time set aside to invest in such a large book and if you like to read easy paced, detailed orientated novels.