The Lock Artist

Yet another book I have my friend Anne Zald to thank for; this book by Steve Hamilton that won an Edgar Award has a most unusual protagonist.  Early on, we are tantalized by William Michael Smith's mysterious and traumatizing past that has left him speechless. By the age of 18, he has not spoken a word in 10 years, ever since....well, you'll have to read it to find out. His parents are dead.   Perpetually the outcast and victim of bullies at school, Mike's being raised by a hapless but well-meaning uncle who runs a small-time liquor store near Detroit. By chance he discovers he has a unique affinity for opening things, like locks without keys, padlocks without combinations, and--with a little training from a master "boxman" --even safes; it is, by Mike's own account, an "unforgivable talent." This makes him a hot commodity with the worst kind of people and so it's no surprise that Michael is writing this "memoir" from jail in an attempt to find his "voice." However, all is not grim. Michael is also a gifted artist which brings him together initially with the love of his life, Amelia. With her help, Michael confronts his past, and--you end up hoping--will eventually walk away from all the darkness.