Five Skies by Ron Carlson

Darwin Gallegos hires drifters Arthur Key and Ronnie Panelli to work on a secret project, a motorcycle ramp to be used for a daredevil jump across a gorge. As the three men spend their days working together in the isolated wilderness each will be tested, their wounds exposed and each will be changed in significant ways. This writer excels at spare, precise writing that is perfectly showcased in this small novel.

The Last Friend: A Novel by Tahar Ben Jelloun

This novel is divided into three sections. The first tells the story of the academic, Ali, who is heartbroken at suddenly having his best friend cut him out of his life. Part two, (physician) Mamed's explanation of his actions and motivations, leaves the reader with more questions than answers. The last section is told by a mutual friend who is looking on. Set in Morocco the novel covers the country's struggles to reinvent itself after winning independence from France in the late 60's.

This is an interesting book that explores a lifelong friendship and the ways that such a friendship can change a person and a life.