David Guterson has brought us another splendid novel, East of the Mountains. As in Snow Falling on Cedars, this book also takes place in Washington State.
When Ben Givens, retired heart surgeon, learns he is terminally ill with colon cancer, he decides against a slow, painful death. His decision is based not only for his own benefit, but he also wants to spare his daughter and grandson the agony of his prolonged death. Ben is tired, tired of putting up with the pain, and tired of life without his beloved wife who recently passed away.
Ben takes his two dogs on what would be his final hunting trip with the plan to end his life on his own terms. He leaves Seattle and drives to Eastern Washington, where he grew up as the son of an orchardist. His final journey is side-tracked when he’s involved in a car accident on the mountain pass. A young couple come to his aid, and he continues on to his destination.
Guterson takes his time describing scenes. I’ve spent much time in Eastern Washington and his eloquence brought back memories of acres of irrigated orchards woven into the countryside’s sagebrush sparseness. Through Guterson’s writing I again experienced autumn’s crisp fallen leaves, the sunny days and chilly nights. The author describes characters in such detail I felt I’d recognize them walking down the street.
The novel has two major flashbacks, one of his youth growing up in Eastern Washington, and the other describing his miserable life as a soldier in World War II. Both sections serve to describe who Ben is today: a tough but compassionate man, a man who sees life clearly and who fulfils what he perceives as his duty.
Along journey’s way, Ben encounters various people, some of who serve him; some whom he serves. The situations and characters are believable and well drawn.
East of the Mountains is a remarkable read, a novel I’ll remember. One thing for sure, the next time I go to Eastern Washington, I’ll look at the familiar countryside with renewed passion.
Thanks for this review. Mary. Living in Eastern Washington this could be anywhere, Wenatchee. Tri-cities, Oroville. I’m super curious. Sounds like a great read.
Carmen, the book covers a lot of Eastern Washington. You’ll like this book.
Sounds like a must read. I am glad you did not tell this reader how/if/when Ben’s life ends. My reader’s instinct tells me there may be a surprise or two.
Thanks, Judith. My rule-of-thumb is to not give away any more than what’s on the book’s cover. It’s disappointing when a reviewer gives it all away. Once one of my books had a review that took a full newspaper page! So what was left???!!!
Nice review, Mary. I think I’d like to read this book; the story sounds as wonderful as “Snow Falling on Cedars.” I’ve driven through Eastern Washington and noticed all the beautifully manicured orchards along the way. I knew my jaw had dropped in amazement as I took in the views all around me, including what I saw in the rear-view mirror!
We love Eastern Washington. The difference between eastern and western Washington always amazes me. The orchards are amazing–carved out of dry arid ground. That’s the beauty of irrigation!
Very nice review. Thanks for sharing the book.
Thanks for the comment, Barb. I loved this book, especially since it’s about Washington. But no matter what state you’re from, this book is wonderful.