I knew within the first page of this book that I was going to like this one! I love a wordsmith!!!
Eskens has a way with words. This is beautifully written. Joe Talbert is an English student assigned to write a biography for class. He stumbles upon a Vietnam War veteran who has been in prison for murdering a child - awesome! Slam Dunk! A+ material!!!!
But when Joe gets to know Carl, he begins to understand that there is so much more to his story. Carl is dying and is ready to tell his side of things - finally. Joe begins the process of hearing the story, and in the meantime begins to realize that Carl is not what he seems. Carl, for his part, seems to recognize in Joe a kindred spirit of sorts - he knows that Joe also has a story to tell, and the two men begin a fragile relationship built on honesty and trust. As the stories unravel, Joe becomes more involved with Carl's tale while also juggling a dysfunctional mother, an autistic brother, and his crush on the literal girl next door. Joe is in over his head, and sticking his nose where it shouldn't be, but he can't help himself - he's drawn in to what really happened in this life that Carl has buried, and he sees that burying things is not always the answer.
Great, quick read. Predictable, yes, but worth it anyway, and you might have a surprise or two in store after all. Loved the relationship between Joe and his brother!! Brings up questions of responsibility and family and truth and loyalty. Can't wait to discuss this one at book club!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment