I remember when this happened. It was surreal, a nightmare. So unbelievable that one man can do so much damage. As much as I wanted to know the details to understand how and why, I was a bit standoffish with the size of the book. Once I delved in, it seemed like time just flew by. The beginning of the book seemed a bit long. The author goes back in time to show the bringing up of killer, Anders Behring Breivik. We learn a great deal about him. The author also weaves in the victims' lives and shows their dreams, friendships and families. At first, I thought this may be too much but once the chaos of this madman ensues, the past started rushing forward and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt the love of these families, lived the dreams of these kids and my heart ached to see it ending like it was. I also felt confusion towards their murderer. He was bright and a go getter. So much of a future for him but he took a wrong turn and ended up twisted. When the madness starts to happen with the bombing and the shooting, it really turned my stomach. Not only the deaths occurring but the ineffectual emergency response was horrific. At times, I just wanted to scream. From there the author follows the grieving families and the trial. Again, it was hard to get through. Breivik seemed so narcissistic and blatantly displayed it in front of the families who were filled with sorrow. I will admit, this story will haunt me for a long time.

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