Totally 562 pages, The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is not a quick read. It is, however, a compelling one, especially for those who love history, dogs, lots of detail and character development.The protagonist, Edgar, the only son of Gar and Trudy Sawtelle, is mute. This is no impediment to helping his parents train the selectively bred, highly sought after dogs his parents raise on their Wisconsin farm.
This idyllic life is marred by the return to Wisconsin of Gar’s brother Claude. The brothers have had a tempestuous relationship all their lives, and Claude has been away for a number of years with no contact.
Sometime after Claude’s return, Gar dies suddenly and Edgar suspects foul play and Claude’s involvement. His mistrust deepens as he sees a relationship develop between his mother and Claude. When he attempts to prove his suspicions to his mother, a local vet is accidently killed and Edgar feels responsible.
He takes off to the woods with three of his dogs and the quartet survives by their wits and the kindness of strangers for two months. Instead of fleeing to Canada as he planned originally, Edgar resolves to return and seek justice for his father.
After his return, events quickly culminate in a stunning, unexpected conclusion. A thought provoking read for adults.
Reviewed by Barbara Evans, First Regional Library
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