Across the Endless River
A Review and Publication Details of Thad Carhart's Newest Novel
Oct 19, 2009
Thad Carhart’s Across the Endless River is a beautifully woven tale of the son of Sacagawea, Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau. While there are historical accounts of some of Jean-Baptiste’s American life, there is nothing that speaks of his adventures in Europe. Thad Carhart has given us a wonderful tale of those unknown years of Jean-Baptiste’s childhood and his years in Europe.
Publication Details for Across the Endless River
Across the Endless River achieved publication in September 2009. Thad Carhart is a relatively new author with this being his second novel. Across the Endless River is available in hardcover under ISBN 9780385529778, and is also available as a Kindle edition. As of yet, no mass market paperback date has been set and it is unknown if this novel will be issued in paperback at all. The hardcover edition features "Deckle Edge" paper, which is meant to make the novel have the air of being printed in handmade paper rather than machine cut edging.
A Review of Across the Endless River
The story of Across the Endless River begins in February of 1805 with the birth of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, or Pompy as his mother, Sacagawea, called him. The novel speaks briefly of Baptiste’s childhood, but truly beings in July of 1823 when he meets Duke Paul of Württemberg. Duke Paul introduces Baptiste to his "European adventures".
Jean-Baptiste, most often called simply Baptiste, is a phenomenal character. His vast heritage, mastery of languages, deep affection for Captain Clark and warming personality are what make him spectacular. Baptiste feels as if he must "walk between two worlds, but yet belong to neither." The development of Baptiste, his life, and his loves are a smooth and endearing read.
Duke Paul also features prominently, as does his cousin Theresa and the young and beautiful Maura Hennesy. Duke Paul facilitates many of Baptiste’s adventures while in Europe, and is an interesting character himself. Theresa and Maura are loves of Baptiste and help him to develop a sense of himself and who he wishes to become.
Truly, there is not really a person whom is antagonist in this novel. Moreover, the antagonist of Across the Endless River is more society’s discriminations and Baptiste’s feelings of being an outsider. The development of Baptiste because of these factors is truly something special to behold.
Across the Endless River is a wonderful work of historical fiction that warms the heart and intrigues the mind. This novel definitely be read by anyone who feels as if they "walk between two worlds" or an outsider in anyway. They will take comfort in how Baptiste handles the trials that life throws his way.
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