kerry reviewed The Round House by Louise Erdrich
Review of 'The Round House' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
I very much enjoyed this book, which was a combination of a coming-of-age story, a crime drama, and a depiction of Native American tribal culture in the late 1980's.
The novel is narrated by Joe, who looks back on the summer he was 13. There are echoes of "Stand By Me" as Joe and his buddies ride their bikes, scrounge meals from various relatives, get interested in girls.
Joe also takes it upon himself to investigate a crime. Initially, his family tries to shelter him from the acts of wrongdoing committed, but as an acknowledgement of his growing maturity, they come to accept and even somewhat encourage his actions to bring about justice.
Louise Erdrich beautifully weaves together funny scenes and heartbreaking scenes, emphasizing the bonds of family and honor and tradition.