“The surface of everything is thinner than we know. A person can fall right through, without any warning at all.“–Virgil Wander
Leif Enger is a master storyteller and his tale of Virgil Wander solidifies that reputation. Set in the upper Midwest, Virgil is a middle-aged bachelor, movie theater owner in his small town. As he is driving one night, he loses control of his car and crashes into Lake Superior. He survives, but suffers head trauma which impacts his language and memory. As he works to piece his life back together, he meets a master kite-making old man looking for his missing son, deepens old friendships, makes new friends, and embraces his new perspective on life. Virgil is a thoroughly likable main character and you can’t help but cheer for him. Enger’s book captures the heart and feel of the upper-Midwest, which as a former Michigander, makes me happy!