South of superior (edition 2011)

Have so enjoyed our travels into UP (almost starting to feel like Yoopers!) and read a couple books last year about life on Lake Superior. With no disloyalty to "Michigan Lake", there is a uniqueness to Superior, also and perhaps the "Iowa farmer" background I grew up with is just a tiny bit similar to a harder lifestyle in Upper Michigan along the Lake.
Not an exciting read, rather an unfolding of the people - - who survive and help each other here and 'accept' that which can't always be controlled.
I enjoyed it. ( )

I thought this would be a good beach read as it was set in Michigan and found it much more thought provoking with memorable characters and a look at the life of simple people in a simple life always living on the edge and how much do we really need beyond loyal, loving friends and neighbors. ( )

Awesome… another book that sat on my shelf for too long, but, nice to find surprises and end the day having read a good book! I immediately went to check how many other books Ellen had out, hoping I had missed a sequel ,not yet but I hope she writes more about the hotel on Lake Superior. ( )

While the ending was predictable, as another reviewer mentioned, the progress toward it was interesting. Maybe as someone else with Scandinavian background, I am familiar with people who are close-mouthed about what's going on in their lives--tho I think Gladys went overboard with her secrets. And I could identify with how hot-headed Madeleine was, even if I never blow up as she does. Airgood did an excellent job of showing us (rather than flatly telling us!) how Madeleine's childhood affects her opinions & relations with Randi & Greyson.
I don't see Madeleine as irresponsible as another reviewer said. She is a bit lost and directionless in her life, but has a good deal of respect and caring for the people she meets. While she doesn't have a full time job at the time of the novel, it is obviously due to the depressed local economy. Having cared for elderly invalids myself, I know that they do not need, or often want, 24 hr vigilance. Arbutus is in full use of her mind and any accidents she may have while alone are not due to any irresponsibility on Madeleine's part.
The depiction of the Lake as expanding one's horizons, giving a sense of freedom, is inspiring. As much as I love my wooded interior, I may just have to plan a visit to the shore soon. ( )

This was a good book, but was very predictable. ( )