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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle summary
David Wroblewski
Brief summary
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski is a captivating tale of a mute boy and his extraordinary bond with a pack of dogs. Set in rural Wisconsin, this emotional and suspenseful story explores love, loyalty, and the power of communication.
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The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
Summary of key ideas
The Beginning of Edgar Sawtelle
In The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski, we are introduced to Edgar, a mute boy born into a family that has selectively bred dogs for generations to create a unique, intelligent and empathetic breed. Edgar's parents, Gar and Trudy, run a successful kennel named Sawtelle, and Edgar grows up surrounded by these remarkable dogs.
Edgar's life takes a turn when his uncle, Claude, comes to stay with them. There is an immediate tension between Claude and Edgar's parents, and Edgar is suspicious of his uncle's intentions. However, his parents are unaware of Claude's manipulative nature and allow him to stay and work at the kennel.
The Tragic Turn of Events
One day, Gar, Edgar's father, unexpectedly dies in a suspicious accident, leaving Trudy, Edgar, and Claude to run the kennel together. Edgar is convinced that Claude is responsible for his father's death, but he has no way of proving it. His mother falls under Claude's influence, and Edgar feels increasingly isolated and powerless.
As the situation at the kennel grows increasingly volatile, Edgar decides to run away with three of the dogs. He escapes into the nearby forest, hoping to survive and find a way to clear his father's name. The dogs, who Edgar has trained from birth, prove to be his only companions and protectors in the wilderness.
Survival in the Wilderness
Edgar and the dogs manage to survive in the wild, and Edgar grows into a young man. He learns to communicate with the dogs through a complex sign language that his father had taught him. The dogs, in return, help him hunt and protect him from danger. Although Edgar misses his mother and yearns to return home, he is determined to stay away until he can prove his father's death was not an accident.
Meanwhile, back at the kennel, Claude's true nature is revealed, and he manipulates Trudy into marrying him. He also takes control of the kennel, exploiting the dogs and their unique abilities for his own gain. Claude's increasing cruelty and manipulation drive Trudy to despair, and she becomes increasingly isolated and dependent on him.
The Return and the Final Showdown
After years in the wilderness, Edgar finally decides to return home. He has a plan to expose Claude's true nature and clear his father's name. With the help of the dogs, Edgar sets up a series of events that lead to a dramatic and deadly showdown with Claude. In the end, Edgar's plan succeeds, and Claude's true nature is revealed to everyone.
Despite the dramatic events, the novel ends on a bittersweet note. Edgar's mother, Trudy, is left devastated by the truth about Claude, and Edgar is left to pick up the pieces of his shattered family. The novel concludes with Edgar taking control of the kennel and continuing his father's legacy of breeding the extraordinary Sawtelle dogs.
In Conclusion
In The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, David Wroblewski weaves a gripping tale of family, betrayal, survival, and the enduring bond between humans and animals. The unique bond between Edgar and his dogs is at the heart of the story, and Wroblewski's vivid descriptions of the dogs' intelligence and loyalty make them as integral to the story as any human character. The novel is a compelling exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the lengths one will go to protect those they love.
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What is The Story of Edgar Sawtelle about?
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is a captivating novel that tells the tale of a mute boy and his extraordinary bond with a pack of dogs. Set in rural Wisconsin, this beautifully written book explores themes of family, loyalty, and the power of communication. It is a unique and unforgettable story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Review
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle (2008) is a captivating tale blending family drama and canine companionship, making it a compelling read for all. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- With its rich character development and intricate relationships, the story draws readers into the Sawtelle family's world, creating a deep emotional connection.
- Exploring themes of loyalty, loss, and coming-of-age, the narrative resonates with universal experiences, offering profound insights into the human condition.
- Through its unique premise of a mute boy who communicates with dogs, the book weaves a spellbinding story that is anything but predictable, keeping readers intrigued until the very end.
Who should read The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
Readers who enjoy literary fiction with a touch of mystery and coming-of-age themes
Those who appreciate stories with richly developed characters and intricate family dynamics
People who have a fondness for dogs and the unique bond between humans and animals
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The Story of Edgar Sawtelle FAQs
What is the main message of The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
The book explores the bonds between humans and dogs, filled with love, loss, and a journey of self-discovery.
How long does it take to read The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
The estimated reading time for the book is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Story of Edgar Sawtelle a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is a captivating read that delves into family dynamics and loyalty. It's definitely worth your time.
Who is the author of The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
The author of The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is David Wroblewski.
What to read after The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
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- Energy Myths and Realities by Vaclav Smil
- Fukushima by David Lochbaum, Edwin Lyman, Susan Q. Stranahan and the Union of Concerned Scientists
- The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels by Alex Epstein
- Should We Eat Meat? by Vaclav Smil
- Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart