The Wild Upriver and Other Stories

Book excerpt: In The Wild Upriver and Other Stories, 13 literary short stories cover three years in the life a young man whose world is changing as fast as he is, both threatened by civilization. Jack Young must create a path to adulthood from a wilderness cabin, through the woods and dunes, down the river, and out on the waters of Lake Michigan, where smooth glass can turn unforgiving waves in minutes. Jack is often alone, even with others, but a keen observer both of himself and the world around him. James McVey's first published book introduces an accomplished writer with rare economy of style who works confidently in simple declarative sentences.