Andr থেকে Stakliškių sen., Литва
There are several cautions that go with the review of this book. Foremost though, I found it to be an exceptional read. The story is well told and will have you wondering until the final chapter. The cautions are that this book is full of tragedy. The reader will be taken from one tragedy to another, only to be taken to another. The story is about a boy and his dog, and I don't think I need to elaborate any further about the outcome. The Sawtelle family has been breeding a new (fictitious) type of dog with remarkable success over generations. Edgar Sawtelle was born mute and communicates only by signing. He helps his mother and father with the upbringing of the Sawtelle dogs. He fosters a special relationship with one of the dogs, Almondine. Almondine and Edgar are constant companions, whether running in the fields, doing chores, or snuggling together at night. In fact they are so close that they seem to read each others minds. The Sawtelle's peaceful life is upset with the arrival of Uncle Claude, who has a past history of confrontation with Edgar's father. Edgar's father dies of a supposed heart attack and Edgar suspects his Uncle, but before he can gather any proof, he is confronted with another death that puts Edgar and three of his dogs on the run. Unfortunately, Almondine is left behind. Edgar and his three dogs now must learn to live in the wild. The idea is to head to Canada, but they must find shelter and food. The journey comes to an abrupt end when on of his dogs is cut badly on one of his paws. He is taken in by a concerned person who helps the dog get better. Edgar realizes that he really belongs home with his mother and Almondine, and knows he must pursue his father's death. The reader should be prepared for a tragic, tragic ending. I know some readers may not want to read a book of this nature, but I will reiterate that this is a very good book and well worth reading.