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.

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.

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

David Wroblewski

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Story of Edgar Sawtelle and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 10

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Prologue-Chapter 10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-21

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Chapters 11-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-31

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Chapters 22-31 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 32-40

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Chapters 32-40 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 41-54

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Chapters 41-54 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle Essay Topics

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Story of Edgar Sawtelle?

Reading Age

Book Details