I must admit I am not a westerns fan. I do like the occasional old Clint Eastwood movie and not much else in this genre, but because this book won the Governor General’s Prize, I thought I would have a go. It is really, really good. The story is set in the old west, but you could take these two main characters, that are hired killers, and put them in any setting or era, and still have a great book.
Written by Patrick DeWitt, the story is told by Eli Sister who is a gentle giant of a man, a philosopher of sorts, and yet, a hired gun. He and his brother Charlie (the tough guy) are in the employment of the Commodore, a ruthless character with lots of power and money, who sends the boys out to kill Hermann Warm (I loved the names the author makes up) who has stolen something valuable from him.
The story takes place in Oregon and California in the 1850s. During their hunt for the thief, they come across a number of odd people and have adventures, making this literary ride really special. Eli begins to wonder about his life and this is best illustrated by his respect for an old horse named Tub. The horse should have been put down, but Eli can’t seem to do it. He doesn’t give up on the horse, much as he doesn’t give up on the hope for a life that’s different than what he’s had. I mean the man all of a sudden realizes how important brushing your teeth is! This is generally not what we expect from a killer – and what makes this book so enjoyable – the surprises that come from ordinary things.
There are a number of funny scenes, but I found this book to be more about wounded souls, the special bond between brothers and the harshness of the old west. I understand that John C. Reilly has purchased the rights to make a movie – so read the book now because, as in most cases, the book is always better than the film.
Your comments on this book are welcome!
Okay, I was weak. I hadn’t had a Jane Austen fix lately so I brought this book by Jill Pitkeathly on vacation with me. I knew it wasn’t going to be Jane Austen writing, but sometimes it’s just enough to have her in the novel.
