One Sentence Summary:
A coming-of-age story of a mute boy named Edgar, who is raised by a family that breeds and trains a unique breed of dogs, and his journey to discover the truth about his father’s mysterious death.
Book Genre:
Fiction
Main Topic of the Book:
Family relationships, nature vs. nurture, and the importance of communication in human and animal relationships.
Key Ideas:
– The bond between humans and animals can be powerful and sometimes indescribable.
– Family secrets and how they shape our lives.
– The struggle between rationality and instinct in making decisions.
– The power of language and communication in understanding and connecting with others.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
- Part 1: The Sawtelle Family: This part introduces the readers to the Sawtelle family, their dog breeding and training business, and their unique relationship with their dogs. It also sets the foundation for the events that will take place in the rest of the book.
- Part 2: The Puppy Years: In this part, we see Edgar growing up alongside his dogs and learning the ways of the Sawtelle dogs. He also forms a special bond with his dog, Almondine.
- Part 3: The Decision: After the sudden death of his father, Edgar is faced with a difficult decision that will change his life forever.
- Part 4: The Search: Edgar sets out on a journey to find the truth about his father’s death, facing many challenges and uncovering family secrets along the way.
- Part 5: The Reckoning: In the final part, the pieces of the puzzle come together and Edgar must make a choice that will determine his future and that of the Sawtelle dogs.
Key Takeaways:
– Our relationships with our loved ones, whether human or animal, have a profound impact on our lives.
– Communication and understanding are essential for strong relationships.
– Secrets can have a lasting effect on individuals and families.
– Nature and nurture both play a critical role in shaping our identities and decisions.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
David Wroblewski is an American author whose debut novel, ‘The Story of Edgar Sawtelle,’ became an instant bestseller. He grew up in Wisconsin, where the book is set, and worked as a software developer before turning to writing full-time. Wroblewski’s love for animals and his experiences on his family’s farm inspired him to write this novel.
Target Audience:
This book is suitable for anyone who enjoys a coming-of-age story, stories about family relationships, and the bond between humans and animals. It also appeals to those interested in the power of language and communication in connecting with others.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
The book was published by HarperCollins in 2008, and it was Wroblewski’s debut novel.