Medicine Walk

I was lucky enough to win a copy of Richard Wagamese' novel Medicine Walk from the Goodreads First Reads giveaway. 

When Frank receives a letter of summons from his father, he expects only more disappointment.  He has learned not to expect much from his alcoholic father, but when he goes to visit Eldon this time, he learns that his father is dying.  After a lifetime of drinking, Eldon knows the end is near, and would like Frank to accompany him on a journey to his final resting place.

As they make their way through the rugged landscape of beautiful British Columbia, Eldon finally shares some of his long kept secrets with Frank.  He reveals what led him to start drinking, what became of Frank's mother, and finally how Frank came to live with the old man who has raised him as a son all these years.  

Medicine walk is a story about love, courage, pain, regret and forgiveness.  It made my heart ache.  At times I hated Frank's father, then at others I felt compassion for him.  It is a great story and very beautifully written.