I could not fault the superior writing, but I found the book dreary and depressing, so how could I recommend it to others?
This is a beautifully written story by a SD English Prof. Prairie jelly fish is just one of his unique images. The main character is a compelling young man who has a very clear idea of just who he is and what he must do. His classmates, a German exchange student and a Native American, bring their own complexity to the story. I value the 'not a happy ending'. In my mind it could not have ended any other way. You have answers, just not happy ones.
I normally do not read nor like westerns, but this was an amazingly good book. It was very well-written and I found myself completely drawn into the story. I highly recommend it!