Nan Seamans on Louise Erdrich's The Master Butcher Singing Club
Nan Seamans, University Libraries’ new director of research and instructional services, sings the praises of one of her recent reads, The Master Butchers Singing Club, by Louise Erdrich.
Why did you pick up this book?
I probably wouldn’t have decided to read it except that it is this year’s All Iowa Reads selection. I like the idea of a one-book, one-community program. People in Iowa seem to take education seriously, and I see All Iowa Reads as an extension of that commitment.
Please tell us a bit about the book.
It’s basically the story of a World War I German sniper who emigrates to the United States and settles in a small farming community in North Dakota.
What do you like about the book?
It is beautifully written, lyrical. The characters are wonderfully drawn. Erdrich’s Native American heritage comes out in this novel, and I found myself drawn into the book by her vivid imagery. Even the graphic descriptions of butchering are engaging.
Are there other books by this author or in this genre you like?
I’ve never read any of Erdrich’s other books, but now think I’ll have to try some of them. Another recommendation [of a book dealing with similar themes] is Empire Falls, by Richard Russo. It’s a wonderful story about living and working in small-town America. |
