A review by suzanlemont
The Round House by Louise Erdrich

dark emotional informative sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

This was an incredibly well-written book with so many well-structured elements: suspense/mystery, family relationships, adolescence/coming of age, Native American culture. The ending would normally leave me upset but the author has the wise foresight to weave in some threads earlier on that let you know that the end of the book is not all there is, and this saved it from becoming one of those stories I hate that leave you dangling and dissatisfied. The casually descriptive language adds texture and wit to an-already compelling story and an air of authenticity that I could feel in my bones. This is neither a romanticized nor grungy/bigoted view of life on a Native American reservation - the characters are fresh and honest, the emotions are real without being overwhelming or just for shock effect. Very well done; i was riveted. There are even a few chuckles.  Now I wan to go back and read Erdrich's Love Medicine which I read a very long time ago because I think she's brilliant.
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