Book Review--Meely LaBauve

In Ken Wells' first novel we are introduced to Emile Labauve, a young boy living in the Cajun-country of lower Louisiana during the 1960's. Known as "Meely" by his family and classmates, this young rascal spends most of his time in a swap that makes up the back yard of a rickety, makeshift shack that he calls home. While Meely's father is off gator hunting and running from the law, readers follow Meely winding their way through his hunting and fishing expeditions in the Catahoula Bayou and the many misadventures he has with his friends and classmates.
Though events in this book are entertaining in their own right, what makes the story an absolute riot is the author's use of humor. Present from page one up until the novel's finale humor is used in both serious and less serious aspects of the novel. By writing the book from the first person point of view Wells highlights the innocence and comical imagination in the mind of young Meely, while at the same time confronting tougher issues like bullying and race relations.

I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of "The Catcher in the Rye". The humor is there, all of the meaning is there, and the narrative following a young boy's life is there---but with an excellent back-country spin. Which is why I would also strongly recommend this book to Mark Twain fans, especially those who are partial to "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer". In addition, this book is a quick read. If you're looking for a quality, entertaining book but you're worried about the time commitment, this is a good pick.