Take the advice of no one, August Kleinmans mother says to him while August is still a young boy in Germany, and with these words to guide him, he escapes Nazi Germany and goes on to build a fortune, a family, and life on his own terms in America. At the defining moments that reveal character and shape fate a shocking encounter with a Japanese soldier in a cave during World War II, the audacious decision to start a brewery in Pittsburgh and a violent reaction against threats to its independent success, a vacation in Barbados, during which his beloved wife mysteriously wanders off, the birth of his grandson Augusts instincts are determinative in a way that illuminates how lives unfold at the deepest levels. This is a brilliant, suspenseful, surprising novel by one of Americas finest writers. Publishers Weekly called Ethan Canins For Kings and Planets Masterful a classic parable of the human condition, and the same can be said about Carry Me Across the Water.
Embark on an epic journey of self-determination and resilience with Ethan Canin's "Carry Me Across the Water," a powerfully evocative novel that explores the life of August Kleinman, a man shaped by destiny and driven by an unyielding spirit. From the shadow of Nazi Germany to the promise of the American dream, Augusts life is a testament to the enduring strength of human will. The story opens with a pivotal piece of advice from Augusts mother: "Take the advice of no one." These words become the compass guiding August as he navigates the treacherous landscape of pre-war Europe and ultimately escapes the horrors of Nazi Germany. He arrives in America, a land of opportunity, where he builds not just a fortune, but a family and a life forged on his own unwavering terms. Canin masterfully portrays the defining moments that sculpt Augusts character and shape his fate. Experience the gripping tension of his encounter with a Japanese soldier in a desolate cave during World War II. Witness his audacious gamble as he establishes an independent brewery in Pittsburgh, battling threats to its survival with fierce determination. Share the unsettling mystery of his wifes disappearance during a seemingly idyllic vacation in Barbados. And celebrate the profound joy of his grandson's birth, a symbol of the legacy he has created. "Carry Me Across the Water" is more than just a historical narrative; it's a profound exploration of the human condition. Canin delves into the depths of Augusts soul, revealing how instincts and choices intertwine to define a life lived to its fullest. August's journey is a reminder that destiny is not predetermined, but rather a tapestry woven from our decisions, reactions, and unwavering beliefs. Ethan Canin, celebrated as one of Americas finest writers, delivers a narrative brimming with suspense, surprise, and profound insight. He has earned widespread acclaim for his ability to create vivid characters and weave them into compelling stories that resonate deeply with readers. Known for his precise prose and emotional depth, Canin transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, offering a glimpse into the hidden complexities of the human heart. Echoing the praise for Canin's previous work, "For Kings and Planets," which *Publisher's Weekly* hailed as "Masterful a classic parable of the human condition," "Carry Me Across the Water" is destined to become a modern classic. This First Edition hardcover is a must-have for lovers of literary fiction, historical sagas, and stories that celebrate the indomitable spirit of mankind. This novel is a moving and thought-provoking journey through a life richly lived, and is a remarkable reading experience that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional piece of American literature.