Broyles goes for Edgar Sawtelle

William Broyles Jr., writer of several scripts that include Jarhead, Flags of our Fathers and Apollo 13, has been wrangled up by Universal Pictures to adapt the novel The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, says Variety. Born mute, speaking only in sign, Edgar Sawtelle leads an idyllic life with his parents on their farm in remote northern Wisconsin. For generations, the Sawtelles have raised and trained a fictional breed of dog whose thoughtful companionship is epitomized by Almondine, Edgar’s lifelong friend and ally. But with the unexpected return of Claude, Edgar’s paternal uncle, turmoil consumes the Sawtelles’ once peaceful home. When Edgar’s father dies suddenly, Claude insinuates himself into the life of the farm–and into Edgar’s mother’s affections.

Producing the picture is Oprah Winfrey and Tom Hanks under his Playtone label. Also producing under that particular company for this feature is Gary Goetzman along with Kate Forte. The novel is originally penned by David Wroblewski and was published in 2008.