Chapter 1: Present Day
In the opening chapter of Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter, we are introduced to Larry Ott's routine and the sudden disruption that changes everything.
Larry Ott, the protagonist, goes about his usual activities, including feeding chickens and reading. His plan to visit his mother in a nursing home is interrupted when he needs to return home for a photo album. Upon arriving, he encounters a terrifying sight: a figure wearing his zombie mask, which then shoots him.
Highlight: Despite being shot, Larry feels sympathy and forgiveness for his attacker, reflecting, "because all monsters were misunderstood."
This chapter sets the tone for the novel, introducing the element of mystery and hinting at Larry's complex character.
Chapter 2: The Investigation Begins
The narrative shifts to Silas Jones, now a constable, as he searches for the missing Tina Rutherford on the Rutherford property. Instead of finding Tina, Silas discovers the body of M&M, adding another layer to the mystery.
French, another law enforcement officer, takes charge of the scene and informs Silas that Larry Ott is the primary suspect in Tina's disappearance. This revelation brings up the complicated history between Silas and Larry.
Quote: French denies any close relationship with Larry, stating, "I was in school with him's all."
Silas remembers that Larry had tried to call him recently, but he never returned the call. This detail weighs on Silas as he drives to Larry's garage to check on him. The chapter ends with Angie, another character, discovering something alarming at Larry's house.
Chapter 3: A Glimpse into the Past
This chapter takes us back to 1979, when Silas and Larry first meet. The scene unfolds in Carl Ott's car, as he picks up Silas and his mother Alice.
Highlight: The chapter explores the racial dynamics of the time, with Larry being "terrified of black kids" despite attending a mixed school.
We learn about Larry's struggles to fit in, both at school and with his father. Larry's physical weaknesses and interests in reading rather than sports set him apart from his peers and disappoint his father.
The chapter also introduces a pivotal moment when Larry, in an attempt to make friends, uses a racial slur against Jackie, a black student. This incident leads to humiliation for Larry and sets the stage for future conflicts.
Definition: "Mechanically disinclined" is used to describe Larry, indicating his lack of aptitude or interest in practical, hands-on tasks, further distancing him from his father's expectations.
The chapter ends with Silas and Larry meeting by chance in the forest, playing with Larry's rifle, foreshadowing the importance of this weapon in their relationship.
