The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

This novel by David Wroblewski is a whopper, over 500 pages, but it's currently a critical darling--if you want it, you'll have to go on the waiting list for it! It's worth the wait, though. Just like the title says, this is the story of Edgar Sawtelle, a mute (but not deaf) boy who grows up on a farm, where his parents raise and train dogs. The dogs are characters in the story of their own right, so dog lovers will like this one, but be warned: it's not exactly a feel-good story, since it's loosely based on Hamlet. Edgar's father dies mysteriously, and Edgar begins to suspect that his father's brother committed the murder. The book is much more than this simple explanation--you really have to read it to get the full story--and you will savor every word. It's beautifully written, and a satisfying, heartbreaking read.