This is not the type of book I would typically choose to read. However, it was the book chosen for my city's "One Book" discussion which included the book club at my daughter's high school. The author came to speak at our local bookstore and we purchased the book there.After hearing Ms. Leganski speak and listening to the comments from the audience that day, I decided that I would give it a try. I'm glad I did.Although the subject is rather "fantastical" in nature for me - a boy born mute but with beyond remarkable hearing - I was quickly drawn into the story. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to really know the characters without any unnecessary and unneeded words. The chapters are short, which I always find easier and more enjoyable to read.I was easily transported to 1950s Louisiana and truly enjoyed the visit! I LOVED this book. Leganski has written a book that is part poetry, part intricate story of several separate, but finally connected characters. It's ultimately a story that bears the theme: the sins of the father... but is so much more than that. I delighted in meeting each of these characters and seeing their true selves unpeeled slowly throughout the book. And it was fun to imagine the incredible sounds that Bonaventure is able to hear - the sound of a smile or the color red...and more.
New Orleans plays just as much a character in this book as the actual people do...
—Mnautumn
This was a book club pick and I enjoyed the story! It was not a favorite, however.
—Afife
This has been the best book of my reading year!!!
—myzflipz
Written by a friend of mine from grad school.
—Mick
