Oprah Winfrey recently revealed her summer Book Club selection: "Familiaris" by David Wroblewski. She was thrilled about the selection and praised the author's talent and the book's epic nature. She commended the book for offering readers a profound investigation of issues like love, friendship, and discovering one's true purpose in life through its fantastic fusion of history, philosophy, adventure, and mysticism.
Wroblewski has achieved a unique distinction among modern writers: being chosen twice for Oprah's Book Club. "Familiaris" is a highly anticipated sequel to Wroblewski's bestselling debut, "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle," which Oprah previously chose in 2008.
In a CBS interview, Wroblewski expressed surprise and gratitude at being chosen for Oprah's Book Club a second time, describing it as being struck by "the best kind of lightning" twice. He initially did not expect such recognition after being selected in 2008.
Wroblewski described Oprah as a champion of literature, humbled by the talent and titles she has selected over the years. Wroblewski eagerly anticipated discussing the story of "Familiaris," whose characters have been a part of his creative world for an extended period.
Additional authors who have been selected for Oprah's Book Club multiple times include Toni Morrison, Barbara Kingsolver, and Wally Lamb. Oprah has also chosen numerous books simultaneously on occasion. For instance, in 2021, she selected four interconnected novels by Marilynne Robinson.
While nearly surpassing Oprah's longest Book Club pick in length, at 975 pages, it promises an immersive summer read. Readers are encouraged to participate in weekly discussions on social media under #ReadWithUs, providing an opportunity for collective engagement with the book's rich narrative.
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"Familiaris" is a compelling tale of the Sawtelle family's beginnings and the extraordinary dogs that define their legacy. In the spring of 1919, John Sawtelle set off to explore Wisconsin's northern woodlands with his wife Mary and companions, seeking excitement and a new beginning. However, to fulfill their aspirations, they must overcome unforeseen obstacles and risks along the way, which calls for their resourcefulness and the support of recently formed allies.
The plot moves from a small-town car manufacturing to a WWII canine training program and even back to ancient history, all while blending humor, tragedy, mystery, and enchantment. "Familiaris" explores themes of love, friendship, family dynamics, and the enduring partnership between humans and dogs, offering readers an unforgettable and captivating journey.
Wroblewski shared that the inspiration for "Familiaris" stemmed from his earlier work, "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle," where the character of Edgar's grandfather demanded further exploration. Set against the backdrop of a Wisconsin farm, the novel draws from Wroblewski's upbringing, though fictionalized.
Structured around the "five great quests" of John Sawtelle's life, the story spans 40 years and emphasizes themes of love and the bonds between humans and dogs. The title, "Familiaris," reflects this dual focus, derived from the Latin name for a dog, "canis familiaris," and signifies family.
Wroblewski deliberately leaves the appearance of the Sawtelle dogs to the readers' imagination, aiming to foster their engagement with the narrative.
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