What I Read -- LaRose

Someone gave me a copy of LaRose a little bit ago. The conceit behind the central conflict sounded like a fascinating way to explore the complicated relationships between characters,  so I wanted to dive right in.  

Within the first few pages, a man accidentally shoots and kills his attenuated nephew (his wife's half-sister's son) in a hunting accident. As part of an ancient Native American tradition, the hunter and his wife send their own son to live with the bereaved family.  Both families also have other children.  One can imagine how complicated these relationships get, and quickly. 

And boy, was it a good read.  For a story about psychological trauma, it is surprisingly propulsive. Sometimes difficult, sometimes funny,  sometimes oh-so-true; always really engaging. 

If the concept sounds at all interesting to you, I recommend it.