I found this book at the library and I am left ambivilent about it. The writing style was interesting but I was disappointed in the ending. I never really found a message, as I had hoped to find, given the title. I think it is worth reading, if you enjoy reading. If you are searching for a purposeful, definitive book with a happy ending...keep looking. This isn't it.

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The first novel for Tom Bailey, who has published short stories. I decidedly dislike novels in which each chapter is in the voice of a different character. It's a writing style that I find distracting and unnecessary. That said, the book is very well written, and sheds light on the lifestyle of "living off the land" in the Adirondack Mountains. The story is of a family led by a self-righteous and demanding father who is certain that he is always right. Two sons try, each in their own way, to gain his approval while still living out their own dreams. A tragedy near the end shakes everything up, and clarifies the love each has for the other. The lesson learned is that rigidity and perfectionism may not only alienate a well-intentioned person, but life will most certainly teach another way. I highly recommend this book.

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