The Story of Edgar Sawtelle: An Oprah's Book Club Pick (P.S.)

This was a beautiful read - it is eloquent, it is captivating and it is truly immersive... I did have some initial scepticism as I am not particularly drawn to mid-west settings and desolate landscapes...however, the author cleverly brought the environment to life through its animate characters and as an animal lover that adores dogs in particular...I became quickly pulled in and smitten from the onset I absolutely loved the central character Edgar, and having the privilege to observe and experience his world through his childhood sense of awe and wonder and how his muteness enabled him to observe the world's cues, and signs and energies in such an emotive and powerful way... Edgar's intimacy and affinity with the Sawtelle dogs and the natural surroundings around him also enable him to give a "voice" to the voiceless or the parts of the world that we deem 'non-communicable' and perhaps not as worthy of our attention if something or someone cannot articulate itself in a way that is familiar or common to us... I found the story very moving as it also challenges one's ideas on or invites one to think about hierarchies in the natural world, sense of belonging, trust or lack of trust in human relationships (and its implications), the importance of small acts of kindness and courage in the face of adversity... One of my favorite books of the year so far <3

Lesa's pick.