This Tender Land is a companion novel to Ordinary Grace, insofar that it takes place in southern Minnesota, but it is in a different time period and has different characters than his breakout success Ordinary Grace, so they can be standalone reads.
Krueger begins this narrative at an Indian boarding school, using historical details to convey the abuse and neglect that was prevalent. The story centers around Odie, his older brother Albert, and two friends they make through the school. The four of them are orphans and, in the early days of the Depression, they strike out on their own, taking to the river, believing the unknown difficulties ahead of them are preferred to the dangers of the life they're leaving behind.
As this modern-day Huck Finn story is revealed, as we grow invested in each individual, themes of family, sacrifice, faith, and love emerge. It's a beautiful account of facing difficulties and misunderstandings, and ultimately, finding hope and redemption.
I have no doubt This Tender Land will make as much an impact on the literary world as Ordinary Grace did, if not even exceed its impact.
(I received a digital ARC from Atria Books via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I've used Amazon Affiliate links here; should you purchase through these links, I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.)
