Helpful Score: 7
Totally engrossing southern gothic tale which takes place in the racially segreated South of the depression era. Two children find the body of a dead black woman near the river and fear that the fabled Goat Man is responsible. The ensuing investigation into the murder lead the boy and his family through the many layers of society in the tiny rural community and ultimately into the path of the real murderer. I found it hard to put down once begun. Being from the south and having grown up hearing stories from my parents and grandparents of life in the segregated South, this story really resonated in so many ways. The story is a murder mystery but it is also a coming of age tale and a glimpse of the lives of people affected by racial segregation and prejudice. Joe Lansdale is a wonderful writer and has also written several other Southern mystery books - you might want to check out "The Drive-In" or "A Thin Dark Line".
Helpful Score: 3
What a great read! The character's are engaging, the story is captivating. The descriptive language is rich throughout the entire book. The setting is in Texas; in fact, I feel like I just visited Texas after reading the book.
Helpful Score: 2
Written in the manner of Harper Lee and William Faulkner, this takes you back to another time and place. Set in the East Texas in the depression of the 30's, murder by a serial killer within this small community becomes turning point of another story of a young boy growing up in rural America. Wonderfully and powerfully written, this will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Helpful Score: 2
This was a great book, much like "To Kill a Mockingbird" which I adore... I am so glad I was able to get a copy and read it, I have already passed it on to my mom!!!!
Helpful Score: 2
Very well done. I could not put the book down, each page brought a new piece of a puzzle.
