Books : The Master Butchers Singing Club (P.S.)

Rating: - A Tapestry of Tragedy and Joy .
Like a wonderful song in a minor key, Erdrich tells just how it was when life was simpler and darker. She never falters in her need to shock you and soothe you and shock you again. I loved it from cover to cover.

---

Rating: - Engrossing Read
Louise Erdrich has been a favorite author of mine for many years and this book is no exception. After reading the first sentence you are immediately drawn into a tale full of the joys and sorrows that make up human existence. The book is beautifully crafted, the narrative rich and the characters absorbing. I highly recommend every project Ms. Erdrich has had a hand in from her novels to her poetry, she is a master wordsmith and storyteller.

---

Rating: - A Rich Chorus of Characters!
The main characters of this novel are Delphine Watzka and Fidelis Waldvogel, a WWI soldier who, after the war, returns to his quiet German village and marries pregnant, Eva who was engaged to his best friend, killed in the war. Fidelis sets out for America and settles in Argus, ND, opens a butcher shop, brings his wife and four sons to America from Germany. Later his wife dies and he marries Delphine. A fascinating saga, rich with interesting characters and emotion, and a twist at the end.

---

Rating: - Beautiful...
Like some other reviewers, I was "mislead" by the title of this book. I also thought that the story centered on a butcher and the singing club he was a member of. I was surprised when I read this book and found out differently. Quite pleasantly surprised.

Although I have seen Erdrich's books before, this was the first one I ever read. I found her writing to be quite brilliant. My interest in the story and characters never wavered thanks to Erdrich's ability to write such beautiful scenarios and imagery. All of her characters, particularly Delphine were written incredibly well. I personally wished there would have been more about Eva. She left the story far too early for me. Erdrich does a great job of describing the life these characters led and gives a wonderful feeling for the type of town Argus was.

Sure, there a few loose ends, some untidy things that Erdrich could have cleaned up, but this in no way detracted from the story for me. I highly recommend this wonderful book and will certainly begin reading her other books.

---

Rating: - The Master Butchers
I had not read any other books by this author yet but was intrigued by the description of this book. Several book club friends were not enthusiastic but I ordered it anyway and I'm happy I did.

I really enjoy colorful characters and this book supplied just enough without overdoing the "John Irving" approach. The main character won my heart and the profile of the 2nd son was very believable.

I wouild recommend!