Review of The Mighty Esox

[Milisandia]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Mighty Esox" by G. Edward Martin.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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The cover illustration of The Mighty Esox: A Supernatural Mystery Novel intrigued me. I enjoy reading Native American stories and hoped that is what this novel by G. Edward Martin would be about.

James Roslyn has a story to tell. His grandfather has just passed away. He comes across a note hidden in a book. In the note, his grandfather describes an Ojibwe reservation in the Northwoods of Wisconsin called Aanakwad. His grandfather discovered it by accident and had always planned to go back. He wanted James to go with him, but unfortunately, he passed away before that could happen. James feels guilty for not going with his grandfather, so he and his brother, Alan, decide to go and take their grandfather’s ashes with them. He feels he failed him and hopes this visit will make things right. He is also having strange dreams that he does not understand.

James tries to see the beauty in nature but frequently gets too bogged down by his problems. I think this is a familiar problem. I liked the river imagery. Imagining James floating down the river was very relaxing. I also enjoyed the fishing scenes. I have been fishing for walleye but did not catch nearly as many as James and Alan. You get the idea that the river was magical. The philosophy espoused by Chief Makwa is valuable and helpful for anyone. Honor the land, love every creature, and only concern yourself with matters of the soul.

The three rules are good life lessons, but I only need to be told a few times. I felt the story got bogged down by being too preachy and redundant.

There were only a few minor errors and the Ojibwe stories were very interesting. I thought the illustrations before each chapter were well done and thought-provoking. Because of the repetition, I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

This is a very inspiring story. One that is relatable to most people. It would be a good novel to read if you are having a lack of faith. There is also a nice story within the story based on an Ojibwe legend.

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The Mighty Esox
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