Leif Enger masterfully blends romanticism with gritty reality, recalling the greatest cowboy stories of the Old West. His novels explore journeys and the search for meaning, often set against the backdrop of the American heartland. Enger's distinctive prose, both lyrical and direct, draws readers into narratives filled with extraordinary characters and their unforgettable destinies. His works are marked by a profound understanding of human nature and a strong sense of justice.
The first novel in ten years from award-winning, million-copy bestselling author Leif Enger, Virgil Wander is an enchanting and timeless all-American story that follows the inhabitants of a small Midwestern town in their quest to revive its flagging heart
The narrative follows an aging train robber on a journey of self-discovery as he grapples with themes of love and judgment. Accompanied by a failed writer, their adventure unfolds with a blend of ruggedness and agility, exploring complex relationships and personal redemption. Enger's storytelling captures the essence of their quest, making it a compelling continuation of his previous work.
When Israel Finch and Tommy Basca, the local bullies, break into school caretaker Jeremiah Land's home, they encounter unexpected trouble. Seventeen-year-old Davey awaits them with a Winchester rifle, while his younger brother Reuben, who struggles with breathing issues, witnesses the chaos unfold. Jeremiah, unable to prevent Davey's arrest for manslaughter, feels powerless as well. Nine-year-old Swede, brave and imaginative, is too young to rescue her brother from jail. However, Davey manages to escape, stealing a horse and vanishing. His family, deeply affected by his absence, embarks on a quest to find him, traveling in their old Plymouth with a new Airstream trailer. They follow the outlaw west into the wild Dakota Badlands. Set in the 1960s on the Great Plains, this contemporary tale possesses an epic quality. Narrated by an asthmatic eleven-year-old boy, it celebrates the legends of the West and evokes a profound sense of place, revealing the magic in everyday life. Ultimately, it illustrates how family, love, and faith can confront the most daunting challenges and tragic circumstances.