Guterson, David

Libraries will want to purchase because of Guterson’s reputation, but those expecting a riveting legal case will be disappointed.

This is a sad story, slowly told. For devoted Guterson fans only.

Missed signals, isolation, distancing oneself from social contact—all describe the emotional core of Guterson's deeply affecting narratives. A haunting collection from a thoughtful storyteller. [See Prepub Alert, 12/16/13.]

While Diane's character practically jumps off the page, the titular Ed King comes across as a cardboard cutout. What commences as a sophisticated, Franzen-like look at the foibles and dashed dreams of the American family devolves into a melodrama that just doesn't feel authentic. Still, Guterson (Snow Falling on Cedars; Our Lady of the Forest) has a reputation for handling hot-button topics, and his fans will likely clamor for this. [See Prepub Alert, 4/4/11.]—Sally Bissell, Lee Cty. Lib. Syst., Ft. Myers, FL