Red Convertible

The Red Convertible by Louise Erdrich is an excerpt from her book Love Medicine, about being raised in North Dakota on an Indian reservation. The short story is about Lyman Lamartine, a hardworking young man and his older brother Henry. The story explains the relationship between the two brothers with detail that catches a readers’ attention. The story starts when Lyman receives a check from the government, and he buys a red convertible with Henry. The two don’t hesitate to spend the money and put the car to good use. Once they drive up to Alaska and spend the summer with a their friend Susy and her family, Henry receives life-changing news. I was hooked when I read about their journey to Alaska with their newfound friend Susy; I wanted to be apart of it. As I read further I realized that the Alaska trip wasn’t even part of the conflict, that is when I knew I needed to read it all. The boys’ adventure is cut short when Henry hears that he has been drafted to the military. Like many families at this time in US history, the Lamartine’s were devastated and Lyman was affected the most. The main character is clearly Lyman, we read of his struggle to finish maturing without his brother. The reservation is described in great detail that just adds to the sadness of the story. I definitely advise that you read this story, once you start you’ll want to read it all and read the whole book. The conflict is very apparent when Henry leaves, and you’ll just wonder whether he is to return. The story develops really well and I felt a connection to Lyman and his family. The end of the story is very satisfying but you feel sympathetic for the people of the reservation. It comes together beautifully and now I want to read the whole book. The reoccurring theme of the story is overcoming problems in brotherhood and family. There are many bumps in the road for this family, but they live through them. Lyman has to stay string in the absence of his brother, living his days hoping to see him again. The fact that Lyman kept balance in his work life and family while Henry was gone really stood out to me. This is the most inspiring short story I’ve ever read, I definitely recommend it. I think you will most enjoy the friendship between Lyman and Henry, and hoe they overcome the struggles of brotherhood.