Our Shelf Talker

Ms. Erdrich is one of our more challenging authors and I must say I usually feel I must shore up my energy before I read her work. While this latest novel is no less tragic than her others, I found it an easier, more accessible story. The author has always had a knack for writing characters who are deeply flawed but sympathetic and such is the case here with Irene and Gil and their three children. Ms. Erdrich returns to themes she has used in the past, namely alcoholism, family violence, Native American culture and art, but it's her deft touch with the children that really makes this novel work so well.
- Peggy