Brothers and Strangers

Laurence Steven is Chairman of the English Department at Laurentian
University and author of Dissociation and Wholeness in Patrick White’s
Fiction.

This book by award-winning author Halvorson depicts sibling conflict at
its best. After seven years away from home, 19-year-old Steve Garrett
returns to his father and to his 16-year-old brother, Beau, who had
remained behind in the ranchlands of Alberta. Steve storms into town,
dragging his dark past behind him. Although not always intentionally, he
goes about disrupting everything and everyone in his path, until his
shady past catches up with him and his family. Through a whirlwind of
sibling conflict and the one area of calm they share (their intense love
of horses), Steve and Beau discover that not even seven years apart and
as much turmoil as they can handle can break their brotherly bond.

Appropriately, the book is targeted toward young adults (between the
ages of 11 and 15). We must admit, however, that these age barriers are
surpassable, because we found the book quite intriguing. One is reminded
of S.E. Hinton’s teenage classic, Tex. Halvorson and Hinton share
similar writing styles as well as an incredible feel for teenage
culture. Those who enjoy Hinton (one would be hard pressed to find a
teenager who doesn’t) should find Halvorson’s Brothers and Strangers
an equally enjoyable read.

Although the book may be of particular interest to those with a
background in horses and rural life, the theme allows readers of all
backgrounds to identify strongly with the story. The prose is not
taxing; the vocabulary reflects Halvorson’s obvious knowledge of the
young-adult generation. The characters are developed for maximum effect,
and the cover illustration (by Paul McCusker) could not be more
appropriate.

All in all, this book is a must for any young-adult library. Halvorson
has written another novel with definite award-winning potential.