A review by inquiry_from_an_anti_library
The River Why by David James Duncan

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.0

Overview:

This is a book about a life devoted to fishing.  An expert fisher from an early age.  A fishing prodigy.  A life devoted to just fishing, has consequences.  For Gus has various problems because of this obsession to fish.  It acts as an addiction.  For everything else becomes sidelined, just to continue to fish. 

Along the way, Gus provides contrasts and comparisons about fish and water, with the broader context of philosophy and faith.  There is even a personal traumatic realization about what fishing means to the fish, to the river.  For the river asks why.  Forcing Gus to consider one’s actions.  To find internal meaning and responsibility.  The power of introspection can cause behavioral change.

 

Caveats?

The book can be difficult to read, as the topic transitions are poor and quick.  Fishing is a central theme of the book.  Readers who appreciate fishing will resonate more with the book.