4 out of 4 stars
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Monsters in the Hallway is a crime novel by Capt. Jim Kosmo. The book deals with the evils or "monsters" that we face, like bad people, bullying, abuse, and sexual assault. It is set in Eau Claire, a small community where murder is unheard of. When a Boy Scout is found dead under a picnic table at the park, the whole community is shaken.
The year is 1959, and it has been nine years since Jason witnessed the incident with the four monsters in the hallway. Nine years since the monsters ripped his father away and banished him to an asylum. Now, Principal Haugen has summoned Jason to his office. When Jason gets there, he is stunned by his mother's appearance. She has no make-up on, her dress is shrivelled up, and her hair is a mess. He is gripped by concern. What could possibly be wrong? They reveal to him that his friend, Roy Pettit, was found dead. Worse yet, the primary suspect is Jason's father, Peder Korsen. Jason refuses to believe this. Yes, Peder has a mental illness, but he would never do something this horrific. He is determined to prove his father's innocence.
The author has dedicated this book to his father, who spent 27 years in mental institutions. Thus, the book paints a vivid picture of life in mental institutions back in the 1950s. It demonstrates the various treatments used in attempts to treat patients. The methods involved in these treatments were shocking! It also presents the misguided beliefs about mental illness that people have in general. This thought-provoking, educational aspect was presented in an entertaining manner. It enhanced the development of the story, adding to the mystery of whether Peder was responsible for Roy's murder or not.
The main characters have extensive backstories. Usually, I feel that long backstories delay plot development. This book was different. These backstories were interesting and necessary. They allowed me to witness how unfeeling, ruthless humans can impact on a person's psyche. This was vital for the development of the murderer's character, and in turn, the plot.
Towards the end of the book, the identity of the murderer became pretty obvious. Yet, the element of suspense was maintained. I was gripped by anxiety, fearing that justice would not be served. Gathering the necessary evidence to prove the murderer's guilt was a challenge.
I have to rate this book 4 out of 4 stars - it deserves nothing less! It has a gripping storyline, amazing characters, and a well-developed background. I recommend it to those who enjoy crime novels.
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Monsters in the hallway
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