Who is the author of 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle'?

The author of 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' is David Wroblewski.

What are the main themes in 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle'?

The main themes in 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' include Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, Literature.

What genre is 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle'?

'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' is categorized as Literature, Fiction.

What is the main premise of 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle'?

The main premise of 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' revolves around a mute boy named Edgar who raises a breed of dogs known for their unique characteristics. Set in rural Wisconsin, the novel explores themes of communication, family, and loyalty as Edgar navigates his complex relationships with his parents and his upbringing on a dog-breeding farm. After the death of his father and the arrival of his mysterious uncle, Edgar embarks on a journey to uncover the truth and reclaim his life, which leads him into the wilderness with his dogs.

Who is the author of the book and what is his writing style known for?

The author of 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' is David Wroblewski. His writing style is known for its lyrical prose, deep emotional resonance, and intricate character development. Wroblewski often incorporates vivid descriptions of nature and animals, as well as themes of communication and silence.

What are some of the key themes explored in 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle'?

Some of the key themes explored in 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle' include: Communication and Silence: The novel highlights the struggles of communication, particularly through the character of Edgar, who is mute. It explores how he and the dogs communicate through actions and emotions rather than words. Identity and Inheritance: Edgar grapples with his identity in relation to his family, his heritage, and the legacy of dog breeding. The theme of what is inherited and how it shapes a person’s identity runs throughout the story. Nature and Human Connection: The relationship between humans and animals, especially dogs, is central to the narrative. The bond that Edgar shares with the dogs emphasizes themes of loyalty, companionship, and the beauty of nature. Life and Death: The novel delves into the concepts of life, death, and the impact of loss. Edgar faces mortality in various forms, and these experiences shape his journey. Isolation and Belonging: Edgar’s isolation due to his muteness and the events that transpire leads him on a quest for belonging and acceptance, highlighting the human need for connection.

How does the character of Edgar Sawtelle communicate throughout the novel?

In 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle,' the character Edgar Sawtelle communicates primarily through sign language, as he is mute. His ability to convey thoughts and emotions is communicated through gestures, facial expressions, and body language. This unique mode of communication allows readers to deeply engage with his inner thoughts and feelings, as well as his relationships with the other characters, especially with the dogs he raises. The lack of verbal communication challenges traditional narrative forms, creating a poignant and intimate portrayal of Edgar's experiences.

What role do the dogs play in the story and how do they affect Edgar's journey?

In 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle', dogs play a crucial role as both companions and symbols throughout Edgar's journey. The story revolves around Edgar, a mute boy who raises and trains a unique breed of dogs on his family's farm. These dogs, particularly the ones he nurtures and trains, are central to the narrative and embody themes of loyalty, communication, and understanding beyond words. The dogs impact Edgar's journey profoundly. They serve as his faithful companions, providing him with emotional support and companionship in times of isolation. Edgar's relationship with the dogs also allows him to express himself and connect with the world in ways that his muteness does not permit. Additionally, the dogs symbolize Edgar's struggle with the complexities of life, family, and loss. They are involved in significant plot developments, particularly in relation to the family's dynamics and Edgar's quest for truth and justice after a family tragedy. Ultimately, the dogs help Edgar navigate his challenges, influencing his decisions and helping him search for his identity and a sense of belonging.

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

In 'The Story of Edgar Sawtelle,' a mute boy named Edgar lives on a farm in Wisconsin, where he finds solace in training a unique breed of dogs. When tragedy strikes his family, Edgar embarks on an adventurous journey to uncover the truth behind his father's death, grappling with loss, loyalty, and the power of communication. As he interacts with the dogs he raised, their bond deepens, revealing a profound connection between humans and animals. With a haunting blend of narrative and nature, the story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the search for identity. Can Edgar find his voice and seek justice in a world that feels increasingly silent?

By David Wroblewski

Published: 2008

Literature Fiction Contemporary Fiction

Start Listening

0:000:00

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Book Collections you might like →

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.

View Collection

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.

View Collection

Gaby Goldberg's Book Recommendations

Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.

View Collection

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection

Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.

View Collection

Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.

View Collection

Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations

Daniel Burka is a prominent figure in the tech and design world, best known for his significant contributions to digital product design. As a design partner at GV (formerly Google Ventures), he has played a crucial role in shaping the user experience of numerous successful startups. Burka co-founded the design agency MetaLab, which has worked with top-tier clients like Slack and Coinbase. Additionally, his work at Digg as the Director of Design helped pioneer social media design trends in the early 2000s. While not primarily an author, Burka's influence extends into literature through his insightful writings and talks on design and innovation.

View Collection

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

View Collection

Bob Iger's Book Recommendations

Bob Iger is an American business executive and the former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, where he led the company through a period of unprecedented growth and innovation. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney acquired major brands like Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, expanding its portfolio and creating one of the largest entertainment empires in the world. Iger is also credited with launching the Disney+ streaming service, which has become a key player in the digital entertainment space. His leadership style is known for its focus on creativity, long-term vision, and strategic acquisitions. Iger’s tenure at Disney solidified his reputation as one of the most successful and influential media executives.

View Collection

Jessica Biel's Book Recommendations

Jessica Biel is an accomplished actress and producer, best known for her work in television and film rather than literature. Rising to fame with her role as Mary Camden on the long-running family drama "7th Heaven," Biel has since demonstrated her versatility in a variety of genres, from romantic comedies to intense thrillers. Her work behind the scenes as a producer, particularly on the critically acclaimed series "The Sinner," has solidified her status as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Although not a literary figure, Biel's contributions to storytelling through her acting and production efforts have earned her numerous accolades and a respected place in Hollywood. Her dedication to her craft continues to influence and inspire both audiences and aspiring entertainers alike.

View Collection

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

Start Listening

The Mike & Casey Show

You might also like →

The Left Hand of Darkness

The Vegetarian

The Stories of Vladimir Nabokov

A Wrinkle in Time

The Secret History

Cat's Cradle

Understanding Comics

Act One

Lincoln

River of Shadows

Beyträge Zur Vaterländischen Historie, Geographie, Staatistik, Und Landwirthschaft, Samt Einer Uebersicht Der Schönen Litteratur.

Early Middle English Literature

Brown Girl Dreaming

The Library Book

Fair Play

The Secrets We Kept

Daisy Jones & The Six

2001: a Space Odyssey

A Sound of Thunder and Other Stories

Cultural Amnesia

The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)

Avid Reader

The Blazing World

The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Pulitzer Prize Winner)

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich

99% True

The Rum Diary

The Gift of Adversity

Verity

Book Collections you might like →

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Gaby Goldberg's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations

James Clear's Book Recommendations

Bob Iger's Book Recommendations

Jessica Biel's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections