“Whippoorwill,” by Joseph Monninger
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Boston, 2015, 275 pages, Grades 5-8.
Adolescence is often a confusing, difficult period of time in people’s lives. As childhood is being left behind, teenagers face a bewildering set of challenges. Their bodies are changing and with this change they often feel emotionally vulnerable. Their awkwardness can make them confused and frightened.
In literature, this has given rise to the “coming of age” novel. One of the first brilliant examples of this type of literature was the 1959 novel by John Knowles entitled “A Separate Peace.” Coming of age novels have continued to evolve in subsequent decades.
The brokenness of our contemporary world is usually part of the literature. This isn’t because authors want to write florid prose, but because many children live in difficult situations. Joseph Monninger has written a touching coming of age novel entitled “Whippoorwill.” In this novel, 16-year-old Clair Taylor learns that maturity is usually gained by going through painful life experiences that bring about understanding and love.
‘Whippoorwills’ are people living in decrepit houses with yards filled with old, rusted cars. Frequently their yards reflect their lives, which have been pulled apart and damaged. Clair Taylor lives next door to such a family.
Eighteen-year-old Danny Stewart lives with his mean father, Elwood Stewart. They have an old dog named Wally that Elwood has chained to a pole. Clair is so upset by Elwood’s treatment of the dog that she tries to take care of Wally. Soon, Danny is helping her clean up and train the old dog.
Tragically, both children have lost their mothers. Clair’s mother was killed in an automobile accident and Danny’s mother could not take Elwood’s brutality and has fled. Clair’s father is a good man trying the best he can to raise his daughter. But both children are motherless. This has left a hole in the hearts of Clair and Danny.
But when they start training Wally, they begin to experience goodness and happiness. As well, they feel a strange sensation for the first time. Clair begins to look at Danny and starts feeling somewhat lightheaded. Danny can’t quite figure out how to talk to a girl, but he keeps trying.
As this confusing romance continues, they continue to train Wally. As they show the dog compassion, they learn about charity and acceptance. Some of their brokenness starts to heal, but Danny’s father continues to harm him. It results in a final violent attack.
Throughout everything, Clair continues to learn about love and acceptance. She realizes how much her father cares for her and also learns about her own courage. Part of this comes from everything Wally teaches her. So how does an old broken down dog do this?
What does Wally teach Clair and Danny? Why does Clair learn that while life is usually not a fairy tale, caring and loving people can give life meaning and purpose? Why is Clair so much stronger at the end of the story? To find out the answers to these questions, go to the library and check out “Whippoorwill” by Joseph Monninger.
This a poignantly told story. Monninger does not gloss over the damage evil can cause in people. The author shows us people finding their way in a difficult world, as well. You can’t help but admire how Claire and her father respond to their situation. Throughout the entire story, Wally simply wants to love and be loved. In many ways, everyone is taught by this kind animal.
This is not a light read, but Monninger presents us with real characters trying to work out the broken parts of their lives. We see painful situations and people showing great courage to overcome these problems. It is a fine novel.
