54 pages • 1 hour read
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
608
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • Mid-20th Century
2008
Ecco
Adult
16+ years
900L
Super Short Summary
Set in 1970s rural Wisconsin, David Wroblewski's The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is a reimagining of Shakespeare's Hamlet centered on a mute boy named Edgar, who grows up on a dog-breeding farm with his father, Gar, and mother, Trudy. After Gar's mysterious death, Edgar suspects his uncle Claude and runs away with his dogs. He eventually returns to uncover the truth, leading to tragic consequences.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Emotional
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
106,620 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski is praised for its lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, weaving a compelling tale reminiscent of Shakespearean drama. However, some critics find the pacing slow and the ending controversial. Overall, it offers a rich but polarizing reading experience.
Who Should Read The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?
A reader who appreciates lyrical prose, intricate family dynamics, and richly detailed settings would enjoy The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski. Fans of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and The Secret History will find similar allure in its blend of mystery and emotional depth.
106,620 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Claude Sawtelle
Claude Sawtelle
Gar's brother and a former navy officer with a history of moral ambiguity; his presence at the family farm introduces tension and conflict within the family.
Trudy Sawtelle
Trudy Sawtelle
Edgar's mother and Gar's widow, who faces challenges in the wake of her husband's death; her actions and relationships influence the family dynamics.
Gar Sawtelle
Gar Sawtelle
Edgar's father, who is dedicated to his family and their dog breeding business; he represents steadfastness and integrity in the novel.
608
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • Mid-20th Century
2008
Ecco
Adult
16+ years
900L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.