A review by ginbott
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt
3.0
Another classic case of Goodreads rating issues. Really this is a solid 3.5 stars but I'm not allowed a more nuanced opinion...
Eli Sisters is a great narrator and it's a pleasure to be in his company for the duration of this novel. His contemplative nature, loneliness and the contrast between his profession and outlook on life are presented wonderfully melancholic and at times funny by deWitt.
The story itself is not spectacular, there are some interesting encounters, but the main focus is on the relationship between the brothers. You do get that classic 'western' feeling from the novel; plenty of guns being fired. They are men of few words and so is everyone they encounter. But the insight into Eli's character does make up for much of that, without him the novel wouldn't have held my attention for more than a couple of pages.
A fairly simple and quick, satisfying read.
Eli Sisters is a great narrator and it's a pleasure to be in his company for the duration of this novel. His contemplative nature, loneliness and the contrast between his profession and outlook on life are presented wonderfully melancholic and at times funny by deWitt.
The story itself is not spectacular, there are some interesting encounters, but the main focus is on the relationship between the brothers. You do get that classic 'western' feeling from the novel; plenty of guns being fired. They are men of few words and so is everyone they encounter. But the insight into Eli's character does make up for much of that, without him the novel wouldn't have held my attention for more than a couple of pages.
A fairly simple and quick, satisfying read.