Missoula by Jon Krakauer

[Carrie Opal]

I don’t think I’ve ever been angrier while reading a book. Missoula lit a fire within me. A visceral, ever-present rage that burned brighter with every turn of the page. This is a difficult read. It is hard. It is a trial. It is grueling, devastating, heartbreaking, and painful. It is also incredibly important. Everyone should read this book.

Krakauer is not neutral when it comes to the issue of sexual assault. He stands staunchly on the side of the victims whose lives are ruined by these violent, horrific crimes. And why wouldn’t he? False rape accusations account for only eight percent of all rape accusations in the U.S., yet the overwhelming cultural response in this country, time and time again, is to identify victims as liars who are out to ruin the lives of their attackers. Rape culture is real, pervasive, harmful, and leads to so much injustice I could weep. Hell, I did weep.

Merely reading about these atrocities was enough to make me feel intense anger and hurt. I can’t imagine what it is like to be a victim of rape, to live with that betrayal and violation every day. To have it exacerbated by the insurmountable task of taking your attacker to trial and getting a guilty verdict, or any semblance of justice at all. I have so much admiration and respect for the women who spoke out against their rapists, and told their stories here. I hope that everyone will take the time to listen to what they had to say. This book will stick with me for a long, long time.

[amyv]

Carrie Opal, I have been a fan of his books for years. I hadn't heard about Missoula, but your review makes me want to read it. Thank you for taking the time to write a honest and visceral review. This sounds like it is one of many taboo topics that should be written about, discussed and be exposed.