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A review by posies23
The Boar by Joe R. Lansdale
4.0
This is one of Lansdale's earliest books, written in the mid-1980's but not published until much later -- originally as one of the "Lost Lansdale" books by Subterranean and then by Nightshade Press. The Nightshade version (the one I read) doesn't have the introduction, but it's my understanding that this was written by Joe with the idea that he was trying to write a Robert Cormier or Gary Paulsen novel, using YA literature to explore adult themes, while simultaneously telling a coming-of-age story.
Of course, with it being Lansdale, there are some horror elements, but the novel is really a pretty straightforward look at one boy's adventures in 1933 Texas. As you might guess from the title, he faces an ancient, wild boar, which symbolically represents much more.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. Lansdale's writing is very strong, and his characterization is intriguing. I can't say too much more without giving away plot points, but the other characters are well-defined and push against type.
It's too bad this never got a wider audience, I think it would be a great book for YA readers.
Of course, with it being Lansdale, there are some horror elements, but the novel is really a pretty straightforward look at one boy's adventures in 1933 Texas. As you might guess from the title, he faces an ancient, wild boar, which symbolically represents much more.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. Lansdale's writing is very strong, and his characterization is intriguing. I can't say too much more without giving away plot points, but the other characters are well-defined and push against type.
It's too bad this never got a wider audience, I think it would be a great book for YA readers.