Dalva by Jim Harrison - 4 stars

[Joy D]

Dalva: A Novel by Jim Harrison- 4* - My Review

Set mostly in Nebraska, this story opens with Dalva at forty-five, reflecting on her life. At age fifteen, she given up her baby up for adoption. The child’s father, Duane Stone Horse, had already fled upon learning a secret about his family’s history. This string of events is the touchstone that ties the rest of the narrative together. Dalva experiences numerous tragedies. We also hear from Michael, one of her lovers, a professor with an alcohol problem, as he reviews her great-grandfather’s journals.

Dalva’s first-person narrative is the most impactful and extremely well-written. I found Michael’s section less compelling in terms of storyline. It does not help that Michael is supremely self-centered; however, I understand his inclusion, since he analyzes Dalva’s family history from an outsider’s point of view. The journals of Dalva’s great-grandfather document the genocide inflicted on the American Indians.

The third section returns to Dalva as narrator. Native American spiritualism flows through the story. The natural environment plays a key role in healing and redemption. The ending feels like a satisfying completion of Dalva’s journey. It is well-crafted and emotionally moving.

[Peacejanz]

I loved this book many years ago. Thanks for the review. I am going back for a reread. peace, janz

[Joy D]

So glad you loved it too!