"English Creek" by Ivan Doig *****

• US author
• Originally published in 1984
• Audiobook
• Review:  I've read quite a few coming of age tales, yet "English Creek" genuinely stands out. Jick is a memorable boy who is a thinker living in the land of doing, Montana.  I guess I identify with the Scottish heritage and the fact that my mother spent her summers on a ranch in Montana.  However, I think even without those common denominators a reader would become completely engaged with this young man and his queries about his family past and present. The passionate love of the land and dedication to its care, the intense family bonds and bonds of friendship.  What would any coming of age tale be without some loss of innocence thrown in as well, not to mention some facing of truths and a pinch of heroism.  This story was marvelous!