What Salmon Know : Book Review

"What Salmon Know" by Elwood Reid is an incredibly powerful and captivating novel that offers readers a truly unique and eye-opening perspective into the lives of fishermen in the Pacific Northwest. This story centers around the main character, Corey, as he navigates the immensely challenging world of commercial fishing while simultaneously attempting to come to grips with his own personal demons.

One of the most striking aspects of Reid's writing style is its immersive and evocative nature. Through his vivid descriptions and detailed storytelling, the author effortlessly paints a picture of the rugged and unforgiving reality that those in the fishing trade face on a daily basis. We as readers are transported into Corey's world, experiencing the vastness of the ocean and the relentless pursuit of the salmon alongside him.

Through Corey's experiences and interactions with other characters, Reid expertly explores a range of thought-provoking themes. Identity, redemption, and the ever-fragile equilibrium between man and nature are all delved into throughout the novel. We witness Corey's struggle to reconcile his past and find solace in the solitude of the sea, and we are reminded of the profound impact that our actions and choices can have on the world around us.

The characters in "What Salmon Know" are truly well-developed and complex, each with their own inner struggles and motivations. Corey, in particular, stands out as a deeply flawed yet sympathetic protagonist, haunted by his mistakes and desperately seeking some form of redemption. The author's portrayal of the tight-knit fishing community feels incredibly authentic, granting readers a rare and insightful glimpse into a world that is often overlooked.

Perhaps one of the novel's greatest strengths lies in Reid's ability to seamlessly weave together the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with the harsh and relentless realities of life at sea. The descriptions of both the ocean and the salmon are simply breathtaking and serve as powerful metaphors for the human condition. It is clear from every page that the author possesses a profound love and respect for the natural world, which shines through in his writing.

What are readers saying?

Elwood Reid's novel "What Salmon Know" has received a range of reviews, expressing different opinions about the book. Described as a gritty and captivating literary work, the story follows Len, a commercial fisherman in Alaska, as he confronts the harsh realities of his profession and personal challenges.

Many readers praised Elwood Reid's vivid and atmospheric writing style, which brought the Alaskan setting to life and immersed them deeply into the story. The descriptive language was particularly noted for its ability to visualize landscapes and evoke the characters' emotions on a profound level.

The character development in "What Salmon Know" garnered both positive and negative feedback. Some readers found Len's journey compelling and authentic, forming an emotional attachment to him and empathizing with his struggles. However, others felt that the characters lacked depth, hindering their connection to the story.

Opinions on the pacing of the novel were divided as well. Some appreciated the gradual unfolding of the plot, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes and emotional resonance. They found the balance between action and introspection well-executed. Conversely, some readers felt that the book lacked strong narrative momentum and found certain sections to be dragging.

The themes explored in "What Salmon Know" were commended by several reviewers. The examination of masculinity, personal identity, and the human connection to nature resonated with readers and encouraged them to reflect on their own lives and relationships. This introspective aspect added depth to the overall reading experience.

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