Because Ideas Matter...
The faculty and staff of Butler University's College of Liberal
Arts and Sciences presents
Recommended Readings
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
by David Wroblewski, Ecco Press 2008
Reviewed by Lacey Echols
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is a simple one
about a family breeding and training a line of exceptional dogs.
The tale begins with the grandfather chancing upon an unusually
bright dog which he cannot leave behind. With that background,
Wroblewski moves forward and follows the sons and grandson who are
still training new generations of dogs.
The story, however, is not a retelling of training techniques;
the plot revolves around the mute grandson, Edgar. Edgar is clever
and listens well. Without the ability to speak, he understands and
participates in complex familial situations. The author carefully
intertwines the appearance of a long-lost uncle, an old
veterinarian who helps with the dogs, and the veterinarian's son
who is the sheriff. There are enough secrets to make page turning
an easy and rewarding activity.
The characters are realistic, and the development of the plot
throughout the book is enjoyable. Wroblewski has a talent for
telling a good story and making the reader eager to continue the
journey. This 500-page book reads like a short story. If you like
tales about families, boys, dogs, and a little mystery and
suspense, grab a copy before they disappear from the library or
store shelves. Read it, find a friend, and pass it along for
someone else to enjoy.
- Lacey Echols is a lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at
Butler University.