James Alexander Thom, best know for writing meticulously researched historical novels, particularly about Native Americans, has written a modern and marvelous coming-of-age novel, which I suspect is somewhat autobiographical, as his protagonist, Scott Montgomery, is of an age with the author. Beginning at six years old and his first âbig boyâ haircutâall by himselfâin the barbershop of KKK leader and father of the boyâBilly Bob Skaggsâwho will become Scott's arch-nemesis in so many ways, the tale of childhood trauma (physical and emotional) engages the reader on myriad levels and stunningly illuminates Scott's transformation from gung-ho Marine to avowed and conflicted pacifism. The only caveat which prevents this from being a 5-star read for me (and I suspect it may be own failing as much as the author's) is the way he ends the novel with a 2-page poem, which I did NOT appreciate since Thom writes such fantastic prose.

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