Step on a Crack

James Patterson
Little, Brown and Company (2007)
ISBN 0316013943
Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (2/07)

As a long time reader of Mr. Patterson’s work, I’ve found him to be an exceptional author, one who writes books that are enjoyable, suspenseful, and hold the reader’s attention to the level it is difficult to put his books down.  “Step on a Crack” is no different.  It is as good or better than his other books, including the Alex Cross books.  When an author is good enough to have his books made into movies, movies that are as good as the books, the author has something special.  Mr. Patterson delivers again.

As a career police officer, retired as the Chief of Police, my time included being part of the SWAT team and I was a Hostage Negotiator.  When I became the chief it was my responsibility to insure these parts worked with the whole and that only the best people, with the best training, were involved.  My experiences included actual hostage and crisis matters, both as members of the team and as the chief.  Mr. Patterson has clearly done his homework; he has clearly done the research and articulates it in his best style.  He is easy to read while being suspenseful enough for the reader not to want to put the book down.  I didn’t, but once, and finished the book in two sittings.  It is that good.

Mr. Patterson is a best selling author, with the reputation for producing only the highest quality work.  You can expect no less in “Step on a Crack.”  He is accurate in his descriptions and true to his past works.  He puts the reader at the scene, involved in the action, to a point where the book is a true pager turner.  As a retired Chief of Police, it is my privilege to acknowledge another outstanding book by Mr. Patterson.  I hope the right decision makers read this and create a movie as remarkable as the others.  Well done sir, well done.

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