Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Peace Like a River
Book Review: A story with a lot of heart
Summary: 4 Stars
I am not going to kid myself: while I could not help but see some flaws here--maladroit attempts at connecting all the pieces to this hard to believe story--I was still very charmed by its narrator, Reuben Land. It was because of his sincerity, his believability, that I kept reading this novel. Also, a word about dad: such a noble and good character. So these two characters and the lush and lively writing kept me going.
The problem here was little sis, and the brother, Davy. I had a hard time in believing that Swede could manage all these things ( preparing full dinners like a pro, writing the way she does, etc.) and believe she is all of a child! Also--some stretches in the plotting of the story: you will get to these. Because the writing is rich and warm and very charming , we forgive some of these slights--or at least, I did.
Overall,this is a good, heart-warming story. Definitely worth a read.
Book Review: A story worth reading--very well done!
Summary: 5 Stars
I thought the story was very well written and the narrator, a young boy, was completely believable. The story shows warmth and love for his family and the hardships they endure, each family member deals with a very difficult situation in their own way and the author reveals each character in wonderful detail, you begin to know them and care for each of them. The narrator's younger sister is completely believable if you have ever known a remarkable child, as many can children possess an astonishing amount of talent, insight, and wisdom at a very young age just as this young lady does. This young girl deals with her troubles through a story that she is constantly working on. This little bit of extra story line brings more insight into how these children are dealing with a very troubling situation involving their older brother. The story is definitely worth reading and reads quickly.Book Review: A unique new voice tells an original tale
Summary: 4 Stars
Part family saga, part fable, this was the story of the Land family's cross-country odyssey. Father Jeremiah, 11-year old asthmatic Rueben and his younger, child-prodigy sister Swede set out across the harsh winter landscape of the American west to find Davy, the eldest brother, who is on the lamb after breaking out of jail for shooting and killing two local reprobates when they break into the Land home.Enger has a beautiful and unique way of telling this story, even if the story itself is rather implausible in some ways. But remember, it IS fiction, so he can make Jeremiah Land a miracle worker if he wants. Swede, too, is a bit on the unbelievable side with her stunning vocabulary, impeccable memory and rapacious interest in the Wild West. I did find Rueben to be a very convincing character, and Davy too, although we never really get to know too much about Davy (what with him being a fugitive).
Jeremiah may seem too much of a Christ-like figure to be believed, too, but he was a strong character nonetheless, and I wanted to believe that he was capable of performing miracles, as we all would probably like to believe that miracles can indeed happen during the course of our mundane lives.
There was only fleeting mention made of the children's mother, and I thought this was somewhat problematic-Rueben never really mentions her nor do the children seem to make an issue out of not having a mother. However, when Roxanna (a mother figure herself), comes into their lives, they do accept her willingly and eagerly.
Overall, I found this to be an inspiring, spiritual tale that made me wish miracles were more prevalent in this ordinary world or that I knew someone like Jeremiah land who could make them happen.
Book Review: Absolutely moved, delighted and captivated by this book!
Summary: 5 Stars
I read this book because it was selected by my book club but had not idea what to expect. I found myself instantly captivated by the "voice" of the young narrator. I was reminded of Jem and Scout when I read the adventures of Swede and Reuben. I loved the dynamics between the family members. I couldn't put the book down. I see that there are strong reactions to this book...both positive and negative. I'd advise potential readers to peruse the first few pages for themselves. It's one of the best books I have ever read and I would hate to have missed out on it because I let a negative review turn me off. I feel like it's one of those "near miss" experiences in that I only checked it out because it was a book club selection.Book Review: Absolutely wonderful
Summary: 5 Stars
I read this in one sitting, and wanted more. Very few books have touched me as deeply as this. I borrowed it from the library, and I'm now going to buy a copy to keep (and lend to friends). A story about real people (not quirky oddballs) that leaves you with insight and hope. Thanks to Leif Enger, and may he write many more.