This book was not previously known to me but I suspect it
may be an American classic from the last century. The writing style, combined
with the eclectic and slightly overblown vocabulary, suggests a work of the
late 19th or early 20th century to me.
Unprepared as I was for this mode of storytelling, in which the
narrator slips readily from one point of view to another, making thinly-veiled
authorial comments along the way, I almost stopped reading after the first
couple of chapters. However, there was something intriguing about the innocence
of both characters and storyline that persuaded me to persevere with it. I’m
glad I did.
The story slowly comes to life, as the interaction of the
diverse characters explains central aspects, whilst laying on further layers of
mystery. The simple life of early America in the wilderness is vividly
described and contrasts excellently with the later depiction of chaotic and
exuberant New York.
That the ending was obvious detracts not at all from this
lovely little story that leaves the reader feeling uplifted and happier with
the human condition.
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