Notes on an Execution

This book is not what one would expect from the title. The execution of Ansel Parker, serial killer, does not consume the entire storyline. While it is always in the back of the reader's mind as the main anticipated event, it is not the focus of the majority of the chapters. Instead, the story of Ansel's life and crimes is revealed to us through the narratives of women who have played some role in his life or been impacted by his actions. In this manner, the book is really about people and their complicated emotions and motivations more than it is a description of an isolated execution day.

The story is told through four distinct perspectives. Throughout the book, we see Ansel Parker living his last hours before the execution, desperately hoping for escape and understanding. Through the perspective of his mother, Lavender, we learn about Ansel's childhood and abandonment. His cruelty and darkness are revealed through the narratives of Saffy, a fellow foster care child and homicide detective, and Hazel, sister of Ansel's murdered wife. Through these varied perspectives, we get a fuller picture of Ansel and his circumstances.

This book's main appeal is in the stories told be the female voices. Each woman's story adds depth to the understanding of Ansel and provokes the reader to contemplate complex topics such as nature versus nurture and the impact of the death penalty. The ideas presented lingered in my mind after finishing the book, which is a sign of successful book.

Overall, I believe this book to be well-written and highly thought-provoking. The female characters stand out and give the story its depth. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy literary fiction that explores dark topics.