When The Hunter Becomes The Hunted

When the Hunter Becomes the Hunted

Aleah Kearsley

I Hunt Killers

By, Barry Lyga

  The hunter can become the hunted. This is the case for young Jazz Dent, son of Billy Dent, the notorious serial killer in the mystery I Hunt Killers by Barry Lyga. Ever since his dad was taken, Jazz has been racked with guilt for the crimes Billy committed, and the crimes he didn’t stop. He tells himself, “I’m not a bad person,” but does he really believe it (84)? Jazz can’t escape the lessons and memories Billy taught him, but he can use his knowledge of “textbook serial killer behavior,” when a new player enters a game (136). Defying G. Williams’, the local sheriff, orders, Jazz decides to investigate the new string of murders with his friend Howie, while little does he know, he himself is being investigated too.

  This book is not for the faint of heart. The characters go into detail about how each victim is killed and what happens to them. It’s interesting to try and solve the case because it gives you the information you need, and you’re able to kind of work besides the other characters. The author gives huge insights into each character’s personality and mindset which makes each action the character does more daring; Their mindsets would also make their thoughts and actions understandable because of their personality. I like the book because even though it’s not an interactive book, I still form my own opinions and try to solve the case. The characters are enjoyable and how it’s great that each of them has their own backstory and how I get to hear it. Knowing who everyone is so well makes me want to know who the one person nobody knows is: the killer. I relate to the main character, Jazz, because his curiosity gets the best of him. Once he starts to figure things out, he has to see it through until the end just like me.

  I would recommend this book to anyone who is compelled to see mysteries through to the end. Also, if you’re being pressured by the world to be someone you’re not because “maybe that’s what the world had wanted,” or going through a struggle, this book may be for you (81). The characters are sometimes oddly relatable given their circumstances; you will be captivated by their double lives. If you like mysteries, dramas, or thrillers, this book would be a good fit for you.

https://www.amazon.com/I-Hunt-Killers-Jasper-Dent/dp/0316125830