The wilding

a novel

by

258 pages

English language

Published Nov. 6, 2010 by Graywolf Press.

ISBN:
978-1-55597-569-2
Copied ISBN!
OCLC Number:
555656349

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4 stars (1 review)

"Echo Canyon, a disappearing pocket of wilderness outside Bend, Oregon, is the site of conflicting memories for Justin Caves and his father, Paul. It's slated for redevelopment as a golfing resort. When Paul suggests one last hunting trip, Justin accepts, hoping to set things right with his father, and he agrees to bring his son along, too. As the weekend unfolds, Justin is pushed to the limit by the reckless taunting of his father, the physical demands of the terrain, and the menacing evidence of a bear's hovering presence. All the while, he remembers the promise he made to his skeptical wife: to keep their son safe. For Justin, these few days will map the changing territory of his heart as he discovers how far he will go to protect those he loves" --Jkt. cover.

1 edition

reviewed The wilding by Benjamin Percy

Review of 'The wilding' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

Look, an owl! Half-way through The Wilding I was enjoying the clear, descriptive, and often insightful prose and the suspense that builds through the story. And, I found the testosterone and metaphor propelled story little ridiculous, but a lot of fun.

Reading through the last half of the book I continued feel this way, but found myself reflecting more and more on themes of masculinity, civilization, and wildness that Percy explores through the novel. While the characters can be somewhat cartoonish, this seems to meant for effect, because Percy recognizes the tensions and the ambiguities within and between these themes.

Enjoyed hearing Ben at Micawber's in St. Paul on 12/6. He has a great voice and an affable manner.

Subjects

  • Fiction
  • Hunting stories
  • Fathers and sons

Places

  • Oregon