As so many critics say, this book is probably about every parent's worst nightmare. Kevin Khatchadourian, the narrator's son opens fire on a select few of his classmates a few days before the Columbine shootings. Through Eva (his mother's) letters to her estranged husband Franklin, we learn about the relationship between her and Franklin and the decision to have kids. The book swings back and forth from nature to nurture as both Eva and the reader try to make sense of what caused Kevin to open fire on his classmates.
Eva seems ridden with guilt from the beginning. From a baby son who she can't connect with on any level whose actions throughout his childhood mirror those of a psychopath, as well as her constant suspicion of his motives swings the reader around. We are forced to confront the reality of school shootings and the many victims they leave behind. By alienating the narrator through these letters, we are shown the bare insides of Eva's insecurities, her guilts, her regrets and her explanations for Kevin's actions and we are shown some of his world as well through the visits she takes to the juvenile prison to see him. The reader is also treated to a delightful twist which keeps you guessing to the very last pages.
Of all the fiction written about school shootings, this book rings the most true for me. In a society ridden by needing someone to blame, Shriver opens our eyes to the shameless spiral of blame and some of the most enduring characters for me were the ones who almost seemed too good-natured to be true. Most of the book, these are the people who carry Eva through. Shriver is a talented writer who I would definitely be interested in following a little more. The subject is tackled poignantly and beautifully and the twists and turns leave you guessing to the very end.
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