Jonathan K (Max Outlier)’s Reviews > Mink River > Status Update
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 160 of 319
Having read it quite some time ago, I'd forgotten how Cedar and Worried Man decided to trek up Fire mountain to find the mechanism of time and alter it to save lives. In addition, how Brian raises the topic of the river having a mind of its own. Moses a talking crow, Irish folklore and love in all its forms makes for a fascinating story!
— Aug 06, 2026 05:20PM
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Jonathan’s Previous Updates
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 148 of 319
Put simply, Brian understands that story heals, humors and educates. He demonstrates knowledge of the human spirit, Irish heritage and the way of Native Americans. He pays no attention to traditional narrative nor character names. It's a story song about life, love and humanity.
— Aug 03, 2026 06:24PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 126 of 319
If you have read and enjoyed Theo of Golden or Remarkably Bright Creatures this will make you cooh with joy much as they did. The narrative speaks to our hearts and souls with lyrics and tunes of love. No words can describe its beauty
— Aug 01, 2026 06:46PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 116 of 319
You can't have stories that lack the duality of life and this one is no different. But Brian finds ways to lighten the darkness through his unusual approach and for that I am deeply grateful
— Jul 31, 2026 04:43PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 95 of 319
Brian pays homage to the importance of stories along with love, family and nature's beauty. Whether Irish, Native American or other, stories are the glue. Even the talking crow Moses has them though his are unique unto themselves
— Jul 31, 2026 04:03PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 89 of 319
Probably the shortest chapters of any book written, yet every word is connected to themes of love, joy, nature and connection. Storytelling at its very best
— Jul 31, 2026 03:16PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 74 of 319
Another unique attribute is how Brian weaves a litany of Irish stories into the plot and I can't help but think he'd heard bits and pieces of them from his family. This not only broadens the scope but adds another touch of family, the overriding theme of Mink River
— Jul 30, 2026 06:56PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 67 of 319
I know this is a broken record, but it's hard not to fall in love when reading this story. I've yet to read any other author whose stories are like love songs: it's unique characters take us into our hearts. Moses the talking crow wondering. I suspect I will read this book a hundred times and never grow bored
— Jul 30, 2026 06:32PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 58 of 319
Brian's non linear, uber creative approach is akin to poets, sculptors and musicians as he weaves the art of words in the loom of stories. Once I finish this one I plan second readings of the Plover and Martin Marten as well. It saddens me greatly we lost him years ago though
— Jul 29, 2026 06:58PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 58 of 319
Another beautiful element is love in all its forms. Love between husband and wife, son, grandchildren, the moment, the town and nature's wonder. This is the art of storytelling at its creative best though his narrative is an acquired taste and one I relish with every word
— Jul 29, 2026 06:46PM
Jonathan K (Max Outlier)
is on page 49 of 319
Had forgotten that Brian adds short quotes of William Blake in nearly every chapter. To say the second time around is a joy would be a vast understatement
— Jul 29, 2026 06:22PM
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Aug 06, 2026 06:24PM
I'm enjoying his book, Martin Marten. He's really a poet, I think.
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Agreed! As said before it's sad we lost him so long ago and I've yet to find another writer who has his creativity and lyrical prose
Make sure to read the Plover too
Jonathan wrote: "Make sure to read the Plover too"I'll look for it. I'm so enchanted by Martin Marten. Thanks for the rec. I like Niall Williams for his very distinctive Irish storytelling.
You might also look for One Long River and Song.. I'll be reading for a second time along with Plover and Martin as well