Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
This is one of those rare instances when I read a book and can see how well written it is and how well drawn the characters are... but I can't give it a wholehearted endorsement. 98% of my opinion hinges on how I feel about the main character, old Buck Schatz, and I think that would be true for most readers. Somewhere along the bookish byways I travel through the internet, I saw Don't Ever Get Old referred to as "geriatric noir." It's a fitting description. Buck definitely qualifies as geriatric, and the overall tone of the book is dark.
Set mainly in Memphis, Tennessee, there's very little local color in this book; and as for the plot, I guessed the killer almost right from the start. I could say why because it's a rather witty analogy, but I don't want to spoil the book for anyone who wants to read it.
I had trouble getting into the book because of Buck. He's ill-tempered, rude, crude, and mean-spirited to boot-- and his failing memory and dwindling physical strength aren't making him any sweeter. As a homicide cop, he was known as a "Dirty Harry" type who thought excessive violence and the occasional torture of a suspect were justified if it put a bad guy behind bars. If Buck ever had any real kindness in him, the death of his son must have killed it completely. Throughout the narrative, he tends to be a nasty piece of work.
I came close to not finishing this book, and what saved it for me was when Buck's grandson joins him in his investigation. This "Odd Couple" pairing-- Old vs. New, Instinct vs. Intellect-- did inspire some welcome humor into this rather unpleasant tale. I'm glad that it did because my appreciation of the humor helped me go on to appreciate the writing and the characterizations of Buck and his grandson. If you're in the mood for some grit, some violence, and a cranky old man that you probably won't like, by all means, read about Buck Schatz. He's one of the most unusual characters you'll come in contact with for a long time. But make sure you hang on to your gun!
Set mainly in Memphis, Tennessee, there's very little local color in this book; and as for the plot, I guessed the killer almost right from the start. I could say why because it's a rather witty analogy, but I don't want to spoil the book for anyone who wants to read it.
I had trouble getting into the book because of Buck. He's ill-tempered, rude, crude, and mean-spirited to boot-- and his failing memory and dwindling physical strength aren't making him any sweeter. As a homicide cop, he was known as a "Dirty Harry" type who thought excessive violence and the occasional torture of a suspect were justified if it put a bad guy behind bars. If Buck ever had any real kindness in him, the death of his son must have killed it completely. Throughout the narrative, he tends to be a nasty piece of work.
I came close to not finishing this book, and what saved it for me was when Buck's grandson joins him in his investigation. This "Odd Couple" pairing-- Old vs. New, Instinct vs. Intellect-- did inspire some welcome humor into this rather unpleasant tale. I'm glad that it did because my appreciation of the humor helped me go on to appreciate the writing and the characterizations of Buck and his grandson. If you're in the mood for some grit, some violence, and a cranky old man that you probably won't like, by all means, read about Buck Schatz. He's one of the most unusual characters you'll come in contact with for a long time. But make sure you hang on to your gun!
Really enjoyed this one. It reminded me of my own crotchety Dad. A very good read!
Not only was this a good mystery, I am pretty sure the author got all of Buck's personality attributes from talking to my wife! Loved the book!
