A Haunting Tale of Wilderness and Humanity

Maxim Loskutoff's "Old King" is a novel that dives deep into the heart of rural America, intertwining the lives of its characters with the landscape they inhabit. Set against the backdrop of Lincoln, Montana, the story is inspired by events in the life of Theodore Kaczynski, better known as the Unabomber, which adds a layer of historical intrigue to the narrative.

The novel opens with a security officer at the University of Illinois receiving a misaddressed package in May 1976. This package, a small bomb, sets the tone for the story's exploration of the Unabomber's life. The town of Lincoln, with its tall pines dwarfing the buildings and its single traffic light, becomes a character in its own right, embodying the isolation and ruggedness of the landscape.

Duane Oshun, a man in his late twenties, arrives in Lincoln after leaving his life in Salt Lake City behind. His journey is one of escape and search for a new beginning. The novel follows Duane as he navigates his new life, from working for a preacher to falling in love with Jackie, a woman with a deep connection to the valley's history. Their relationship, marked by age differences and past experiences, adds depth to the story.

Ted Kaczynski, another central character, is portrayed with a complexity that goes beyond his infamous legacy. His connection to the land, his disdain for modern technology, and his interactions with the other characters provide a nuanced look into his psyche. The novel does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Ted's actions, including his bombings and his impact on the community.

The Old King, an ancient Douglas fir, symbolizes the valley's endangered old-growth forest and serves as a silent witness to the unfolding human dramas. The tree's presence is a constant reminder of the natural world's beauty and fragility.

Loskutoff's writing is rich in detail, capturing the essence of the Montana landscape and the lives of those who inhabit it. The novel's pacing allows for a deep dive into the characters' inner worlds, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.

"Old King" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that offers a window into the lives of those living on the fringes of society and the wilderness. Maxim Loskutoff's ability to weave historical events with fictional characters creates a story that is both engaging and profoundly moving,

As a child of the '70s, I found "Old King" to be a deeply resonant story. The novel's ending, while rooted in history, leaves a lasting impression and prompts reflection on our relationship with the natural world.

This was a really good read...

While somewhat interesting, this wasn't really in my wheelhouse.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for access to this e-ARC.