The Disturbance

Based on a true story, this book-length poem chronicles a brutal multiple homicide in which a husband and father gunned down his entire family. The verses feature a kaleidoscope of voices from all of the characters involved, introducing the family and chillingly chronicling the escalation of the father’s controlling attitude to violence. The aftermath is also explored, following the authorities, police, and neighbors who might have helped prevent the tragedy. This dark book—not without some graphic violence—is also a courageous narrative about evil and its presence in everyday life. It is unquestionably harrowing as it explores the terrible fate of a well-to-do, seemingly prosperous and well-connected family, but also proves cathartic as it reaches its end.