Rating: 
Summary: absolutely delicious
Review: to steal an expression from my grandmother. Perhaps one of the most exquisitely written books I have come accross in a very very long time. Absolutely could not put this down.Yes yes, the story is a good one, though not a great storyline by any stretch. What is remarkable is the way in which it was written. This author has a demeanor about his writting that is incredible. You could easily melt in the reflections, descriptions nad true feelings contained in the pages. Toi be able to convey the strong emotions, compassions and bend of the characters without overdoing the verbosity is a wonderous feat. The sentences are fairly easily come by, yet convey much more then their lack of complexity and verbosity would lead you to believe. That is an artform. And let me tell you, those feelings are the heart of the book and make is such a warm piece despite the wintery nights the tale is confined to. Bar none, this is one of the best books I have read this year and in fcat, one of the best books ive read in a while.
Rating:
Summary: A fabulous adventure
Review: Leif Enger's spectacular first novel takes the reader on a fabulous adventure as the Land family sets out to find their elder son, Davy, convicted for killing two intruders while defending his family, . Enger combines elements of faith, love, compassion and suspense and a cast of fascinating, compelling characters. This is a superb book!
Rating:
Summary: Mesmerizing Read
Review: This is one of the most beautiful, well written novels I have ever read. The words flow like a song. Being a huge fan of To Kill a Mockingbird, I was delighted to find a book of the same caliber. The strength of the family ties in this novel will renew your faith in the "All American Family". During the search for Davey, Ruben and Swede discover things about their father few children are lucky enough to know. It is the fathers' Godliness which gives this book a decided edge. Their adventures across the U.S. in their beloved Airstream trailer will leave you laughing, crying and truly captivated. I am unsure as to whether Mr. Enger should not try to top this book, but I am highly anticipating his next novel. If it's anything like Peace Like a River, it should be wonderful.
Rating:
Summary: This could be a classic!!
Review: I started this book after the 2001 Holidays and put it down with only 5 chapters to go. I had become so attached to the characters that I just couldn't bear to have the book end, so I put off finishing it. Having just finished it, I have to say that my feelings are still the same. There is such a earnest and wholesome connection between each member of the Land family. If each father/husband achieved Mr. Land's convictions of morality and strong Christian beliefs,this certainly would be a better place to live! Each chapter comes alive and the author has a way of making you feel that you are a third-party, observing every movement. I literally "shivered" during those Badland winters. I cannot wait for Mr. Enger to honor us with another masterpiece.
Rating:
Summary: Only Swede could do it justice.
Review: In trying to write a title for my review I was drawn back to the book and Reuben often trying to describe something and saying how his sister would be able to do it so much better.
I just finished the book and don't normally write reviews so I don't know how well it will be but this book is phenomenal. I originally purchased the audiobook figuring on listening to it on a trip up to New England. When I came home I bought the book and have since read it. It is a modern day masterpiece, no other words to describe it. There will definitely be comparisons, as already mentioned in other reviews, to "To Kill a Mockingbird". Anyone looking for an Excellent book for the summer reading season should pick this one up. I look forward to Mr. Enger's next work.
Rating: 
Summary: Possibility vs. Plausibility
Review: A novel may depart from the realm of the possible, as this book does, but it must retain a strong plausiblity. That Leif Enger has not achieved. Sentimentality should not submerge ethical issues. It does here. Davy killed a wounded man by an execution-style bullet in the back of the head. Rueben's covering for his brother leads to the death of the FBI man Andreeson. I will commend the author for his vivid portrayal of Western South Dakota--an area I love, in summer--and the two characters I liked best, Roxanna and (fleetingly) Sara. Is this book some great favorite among American evangelicals?
Rating:
Summary: If you had a 6 star rating...
Review: I read a lot and rarely stop to write a review. But this book is so profound, moving, highly readable, and memorable that I can't not let others know. A work of art... I wish I could rate it more than 5 stars.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent work
Review: I admit I don't read many books anymore, and the few I begin I usually stop reading for lack of continued interest. This was not one of those books. I finished this book in a little over a day and was already wishing for more. The story, as told through the eyes of an 11-year-old, keeps the reader involved and always waiting to see what happens next. There are some points where the story flow seems to leave, but it never really does, and instead you can see a lot of suttle foreshadwing and excellent symbolism throughout the book. I look forward to Enger's next novel, should he choose to write one.
Rating:
Summary: All I Can Say Is WOW
Review: This is a superior work of art! Pure Delight!! This book brings up hard questions...like how does a family respond to a teenager's actions...and when do you let go? I am a mother of a 16 year old boy with impetuous actions and I was able to put myself in this story.
I first read the condensed version from Readers Digest while on vacation. I cried and laughed and marveled. So when I got home I bought and read the whole book. Wow, how it opened up and exploded to me again. I am in a book club which meets once a month and my turn to host is not til September, but I bought ten copies of this book in January to present. Our goal and purpose is to introduce and become acquainted with a variety of Christian fiction authors...Well, I am excited to introduce Leif Enger. I look forward to his next book eagerly. I really can't say anything that others haven't already written.
Rating:
Summary: Charming
Review: Just when your faith in faith is about to go out the window, along comes Leif Enger's tender hearted book that as more than one person has pointed out, feels very much like a contemporary "To Kill A Mockingbird". Our narrator, Reuben Land is both a witness to miracles, and the recipiant of one at the hand of his father. His life in 1960s North Dakota takes a dramatic turn when his brother kills two men who break into their house. The novel is sweet, and well written and liable not to offend anyone. At times it feels like part Bible story, and part old fashioned Western which figures prominantly as a theme for Rueben's sister.Somehow when I started the book I think I was expecting more of a payoff, which for me never really came. Still it's a pleasant and charming first novel.
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