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| Source: Grove Atlantic |
"Peace Like a River" is a novel by Leif Enger that explores the power of faith, family, and miracles. The novel has received critical acclaim and has been a bestseller since its publication in 2001. In this book review, we will delve deeper into the themes and characters of the novel.
Introduction
Book's Name: Peace Like a River
Author's Name: Leif Enger
Genre: Literary Fiction
Language: English
Synopsis
The novel is set in 1960s Minnesota and tells the story of the Land family - father Jeremiah, his son Reuben, and daughter Swede. The story begins with Reuben being born with a severe case of asthma, which almost takes his life. Through the years, Reuben's health continues to be fragile, and his father's faith becomes an integral part of his life. When Reuben's older brother Davy is accused of murder and goes on the run, the family embarks on a journey to find him. Along the way, they encounter a series of miracles that leave them questioning the power of faith and the possibility of redemption.
About the Author
Leif Enger is an American novelist and journalist. He was born in Minnesota and spent much of his childhood reading books and exploring the outdoors. Enger worked as a reporter and editor for several newspapers before publishing his debut novel, "Peace Like a River," in 2001. He has since written two more novels, "So Brave, Young, and Handsome" and "Virgil Wander."
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| Source: Star Tribune |
About the Book
"Peace Like a River" is a novel that explores the power of faith, family, and miracles. It is a story of a family's journey through the American Midwest in search of a lost son and brother. The novel is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and the possibility of miracles.
Psychological Analysis
The novel explores the themes of faith, family, and miracles. It shows the power of faith in the face of adversity and how it can bring people together. The Land family's journey is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the lengths that people will go to protect the ones they love. The novel also explores the idea of miracles and how they can change people's lives.
One of the primary psychological analyses of the novel involves the character of Jeremiah, the father of the Land family. Jeremiah is a deeply religious man, and his faith is a driving force in the novel. Through Jeremiah's character, Enger explores the idea of faith as a source of strength and comfort, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Jeremiah's unwavering faith and belief in the power of miracles are integral to the novel's themes of redemption and hope.
Another key theme of the novel is the power of family. The Land family is a close-knit group that will stop at nothing to protect one another. Throughout their journey, they encounter a number of challenges and obstacles, but they face them together, with love and loyalty as their guiding principles. The novel is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the lengths that people will go to protect the ones they love.
The idea of miracles is also central to the novel's themes. Throughout the Land family's journey, they encounter a number of unexplained events that suggest the presence of a higher power. These miracles challenge the characters' beliefs and force them to confront the idea that there may be something beyond their understanding at work in the world. The novel's exploration of the power of faith and the possibility of miracles is a thought-provoking and moving journey.
Themes Involved
"Peace Like a River" deals with several themes that are relevant to readers of all ages. Here are some of the major themes of the novel:
Faith and Miracles : One of the central themes of the novel is the power of faith and the possibility of miracles. The characters in the book, especially Jeremiah, believe that there is a higher power at work in the world, and that sometimes miracles can happen. The novel asks readers to consider whether or not there is something beyond their understanding at work in the world, and whether faith and belief in miracles can help people through difficult times.
Family and Loyalty: Another important theme of the novel is the importance of family and loyalty. The Land family is fiercely loyal to one another, and they will do anything to protect and support each other. The novel shows that family can be a source of strength and comfort, even in the face of great adversity.
Justice and Revenge: The novel also deals with the themes of justice and revenge. Reuben's father, Jeremiah, is on the run from the law after he kills two men who have kidnapped his daughter. Reuben and his family must grapple with the idea of what is just and whether or not revenge is ever justified.
Coming of Age: "Peace Like a River" is also a coming-of-age story, as Reuben must navigate the challenges of growing up in a world that is often confusing and difficult to understand. Through his experiences, Reuben learns important lessons about life, love, and the nature of the world around him.
Nature and the Environment: Another theme of the novel is the beauty and power of nature. The Land family spends a lot of time in the outdoors, and they have a deep appreciation for the natural world. The novel encourages readers to consider the importance of protecting the environment and the ways in which nature can provide solace and healing during difficult times.
The Bottom Line
"Peace Like a River" is a powerful and moving novel that explores the themes of faith, family, and miracles. Leif Enger's writing is lyrical and evocative, and his characters are richly drawn and deeply compelling. The novel is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and the possibility of miracles. I highly recommend "Peace Like a River" to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.
My rating for the book: 4.5 on 5
Get your copy from - Amazon
Written By
- Anas Ahamed
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