David Wroblewski's novel gets the nod from Winfrey

[September 20, 2008]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Thanks to Oprah Winfrey, one of the summer's hottest reads is sure to sizzle in the fall.

Publishing's biggest hit-maker has chosen David Wroblewski's "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle," a 500-page debut novel, as her latest book club pick, two booksellers told The Associated Press. "Edgar Sawtelle" was released in June and became a smash thanks to strong reviews, word of mouth and a blurb from Stephen King.

Winfrey was to make the announcement later Friday on her Chicago-based TV talk show. The Associated Press purchased a copy of the novel, which has a Winfrey book club sticker on the cover, from a bookseller that placed "Edgar Sawtelle" on sale early. The two booksellers, speaking on condition of anonymity because of a confidentiality agreement, had previously told the AP that Wroblewski's work was Winfrey's choice.

"Edgar Sawtelle," which Wroblewski worked on for more than a decade, is the story of a mute boy who communicates best with his dogs. Wroblewski grew up in rural Wisconsin, the setting for his book, and now lives near Denver with his partner, writer Kimberly McClintock.

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[Associated Press; By HILLEL ITALIE]

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