Evelyn in Transit
books by David Guterson
Radically open-minded, formidably strong, and unusually clear-eyed about herself and others, Evelyn Bednarz has always been a misfit. She’s easily bored, unsuited to life at school, asks odd questions about faith and time, and sees through conventions others take for granted. Seeking to be true to herself, she hitchhikes across the American West taking odd jobs. In distant Tibet, another life unfolds as remote from Evelyn’s as can be: the life of a boy named Tsering, raised as a Buddhist monk in the mountains of Tibet, who eventually becomes a high lama. And yet, their lives are strangely linked—as Evelyn discovers when a trio of Buddhist lamas show up at her door to announce that her five-year-old son Cliff is the seventh reincarnation of the illustrious Norbu Rinpoche, recently... The writing style supports sustained attention by maintaining a clear and logical flow. Readers can follow the progression of events easily, enhancing immersion. This readability is a key strength of the book. The pacing of the book reflects an understanding of reader engagement, avoiding both stagnation and haste. This balance supports a comfortable and enjoyable reading experience.