Genre: Novel
Grade: A-
Notable People: Jim Harrison
Title: The English Major
Review –As I’ve noted before, in my opinion Jim Harrison is probably our greatest living American writer- so he starts with an “A” in my book. That said, this one is not one of his best novels, though still phenomenally well written. Like all is books- it is clearly a variation of his story taking place in his friendly confines of most Northern Michigan (Deb Hodges will note that part is set in Harbor Springs!). Sixty year old man loses his wife, his dog and his farm and sets out to visit each state- re-naming the states and their state birds along the way. He also tries to fulfill his 50 year old sexual fantasies while attempting to stay out of the modern world (he flushes at least three cell phones down the toilet). Maybe this character hits close to home!!!Harrison has gotten more humorous in his later stages, which may or may not be a plus. A delightful read, though not in the same class as Legends of the Fall or Dalva.