In the Lake of the Woods

John Wade loses a Democratic primary for Senator when his secret is exposed – he was involved in the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War. John and his wife Kathy retreat to a cabin at the Lake of the Woods following the public scrutiny, and Kathy disappears. Later, John disappears when searching for her. The novel is written as a biographer’s attempt to put the story together and is composed of narrative fragments interspersed with diary entries, interviews, and documentary pieces. Its challenging style offers opportunities for critical and creative thinking, and is suited for strong independent readers or small accelerated lit circle groups in grade 12. Teacher preview is required; social considerations noted.