Book Review Lean on Pete 
by Willy Vlautin
Book Review: Lean on Pete
Other Recent Book Review Articles
Singer-songwriter and author Vlautin’s fiction explores the underbelly of America; the motel and trailer park life still very much in existence. Reminiscent of John Steinbeck in their sparse prose and themes of modern-day pursuits of the American Dream, Vlautin’s novels evoke their stark, industrial west-coast settings through his characters’ empty existences. Yet underneath the pervading sense of despair lie living, breathing characters with hopes and aspirations.
Vlautin’s third novel, Lean on Pete, follows 15 year-old Charley’s struggle for a better life against the odds of his absent father and lack of education, roots and stability.
On taking a job at a racecourse, Charley meets old horse Pete, a friendship develops, and Charley’s quest for a more stable life begins, for underneath his seemingly hopeless existence lies the inner strength to improve his lot.
In this modern-day great American road trip, Vlautin succeeds in creating an evocative and memorable tale of friendship and hope against a rough, tough, yet oddly beautiful backdrop.
pb, Faber & Faber, £12.99
Posted on Wednesday 3rd March 2010
Jill Morris
Sending you to Twitter, hold on... 
