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In Louise Erdrich’s new novel, “The Sentence,” a bookseller with a fervent love of reading reads a page in a book that a ghost has been reading. She discovers that one of the sentences on that page is so dangerous that she suspects it changes according to the reader’s ability to decipher it.

The novel swirls in a kaleidoscope of ghosts and grief, joy and intimacy — all propelled by the necessity of books. 

Erdrich joined host Kerri Miller to talk about “The Sentence,” which was released this week. 

Use the audio player above to listen to the full interview.

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Louise Erdrich talks with host Kerri Miller about experiences that inspired parts of the novel.

In Louise Erdrich’s new novel, “The Sentence,” a bookseller with a fervent love of reading reads a page in a book that a ghost has been reading. She discovers that one of the sentences on that page is so dangerous that she suspects it changes according to the reader’s ability to decipher it.

The novel swirls in a kaleidoscope of ghosts and grief, joy and intimacy — all propelled by the necessity of books.

Guest:

Louise Erdrich is the author of “The Night Watchman,” winner of the Pulitzer Prize. Her latest novel, “The Sentence,” was released Nov. 9. She is also the owner of Birchbark Books, an independent bookstore in Minneapolis.

Louise Erdrich's 'The Sentence' explores ghosts and grief, joy and intimacy

A side-by-side photo of author Louise Erdrich and her book "The Sentence."

Louise Erdrich's 'The Sentence' explores ghosts and grief, joy and intimacy

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