"If you are deemed insane, then all actions that would otherwise prove you are not do, in actuality, fall into the framework of an insane person's actions. Your sound protests constitute denial. Your valid fears are deemed paranoia. Your survival instincts are labeled defense mechanisms. It's a no-win situation. Once you're here, you're not getting out. No one leaves Ward C. No one."
"Rachel Solando" from Shutter Island
Title: Shutter Island
Author: Dennis Lehane
Publisher/Publisher Date: Harper/2003
Library/Bookstore: Albertson's
Date Borrowed/Bought/Read: November 2009
Rating: ****
What It's About: U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels and his new partner Chuck Aule are investigating the mysterious disappearance of Rachel Solando, a mental patient/prisoner who was sent to Ashcliffe Hospital for the Criminally Insane after murdering her children. They soon realize that the doctors are up to something sinister and not everything is as it seems on Shutter Island.
Why I Chose to Read It: The trailer for the movie based on this book looked really good.
Notes About the Book:
- I really liked the banter between Teddy and Chuck. Mark Ruffalo is a good choice to play Chuck in the movie.
- I was disappointed with the twist ending. I kind of knew where this book was headed after about 100 pages, but I was really hoping I would be wrong. If you think about it, you can probably already guess how the book will end. However, Lehane's writing was entertaining enough that I didn't really mind.
- This book reminded me of Session 9.
- The most interesting character in the book is the warden (played by Ted Levine in the movie). Sadly, he's not in the book much.
- This book might make you paranoid about pharmaceutical companies.
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