Book Review: The Devil all the Time by Donald Ray Pollock

Fire and Brimstone in the Midwest

This book didn't let me take a breath

Pollock gives us multiple stories with a host of characters that become intertwined. In the beginning there's really no way to see how they are going to connect but like trains set to crash directly, the links confront each other and it is powerful.

The characters are so fleshed out that they seem jarring and real. Each one, is so vividly portrayed and so harshly exposed that at some points it was uncomfortable but so fascinating.

There are some overarching themes in this book, including religion that has become misguided and warped by those who have taken it to extreme. There is also a fair dose of graphic darkness and criminal mindsets in this book that give it a macabre feel. In all of it there is a beauty to the writing even if the subject matter is disturbing. Powerful storytelling. . .  I would recommend this one.

Book Review: The Painter by Peter Heller

A Journey in an Artist's Mind

Art, Anger, Sorrow, Violence and Retribution

Meet Jim, an unexpected successful artist despite his ability to sabotage himself. Grief consumes him and his anger causes him to lash out. While his paintings are masterpieces and visual poetry, the rest of his life is in chaos except when he is fly fishing.

I don't want to give much away in this story but his narrative is fascinating. As he describes his painting you see the process and it's a cathartic expression, making sense of his life as he navigates emotions. I didn't think I would be able to identify with a middle age man in recovery with his demons but his voice resonated with me.

This is a wonderful book that I can't pigeonhole into a category. It stands by itself and was a great read.