A Tree Planted by Water Review

"A Tree Planted by Water" by Lance Weller is a gripping and thought-provoking novel set just after the American Civil War. The book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions of the Pacific Northwest landscape, and examines themes such as survival, human connection, and the impact of war on individuals.

Plot Summary

The story follows the journey of two Union soldiers, bushwhacked and left for dead in the forests of Washington State. They struggle to survive in the wilderness and are eventually taken in by a group of homesteaders, including a young widow named Eliza who has carved out a life for herself in the remote wilderness. As they try to recover from their injuries and adapt to life in their new surroundings, the soldiers confront the horrors of the war they have just left behind.

Character Development

One of the standout elements of "A Tree Planted by Water" is the way the characters evolve throughout the story. The two soldiers, John and Thomas, are initially very different from each other, but as they endure hardships together, they begin to form a bond that transcends their initial prejudices. Eliza, too, is a brilliantly drawn character who embodies the toughness and resilience required to survive in a harsh environment.

Themes

The novel explores many important themes, including the effects of war on individuals and communities, the fragility of human connections, and the struggle for survival in the face of adversity. Weller also touches on the idea of environmentalism and the importance of respecting and protecting the natural world. The story reminds us that we are all interconnected and that our actions have consequences beyond our own individual lives.

Final Thoughts

Overall, "A Tree Planted by Water" is a beautifully crafted novel that manages to be both haunting and inspiring. Lance Weller's writing is precise and vivid, and he creates a world that is simultaneously brutal and enchanting. The characters, themes, and plot all come together to form a vivid tapestry of life in the Pacific Northwest. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.