Book review: The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

David Wroblewski’s debut novel, The Story of Edgar Sawtelle: A Novel , sends the reader on a rare journey. The main character, Edgar, grows up on a fourth generation farm where his parents breed and train Sawtelle dogs (a fictional breed.) When Edgar’s father dies suddenly, Edgar’s plan to confront his murderer backfires. For fear of spoilers, I leave the general discription as simply as that.

This is a raw and intriguing book which made me reconsider my perceptions of words like fair, justice and legacy. The continuum of life–as generation after generation of dogs are bred and placed–is ever present. From main stage to minor support, I found all the characters–both canine and human–very believable (even my favorite: Ida Paine, a minor supporting character).

I didn’t want the book to end, and was sadly resigned when it did. I read this book after it received high praise from author Steven King. I echo King’s endorsement, jealous of those who begin this book for the first time–for they journey they’ll encounter as they turn each new page.