Published in 2008 by Island Road, LLC
Whoa, I seem to read books of a theme around the same time so reading this right after Robison was a strange treat! While Burroughs is known for his comedic timing and sometimes uncomfortable short stories, this was completely different than any of his work.
"A Wolf..." is the story of his relationship with his father. A man so dark and twisted he makes Meredith Grey look like the poster child for normal home life. While the book would have been a riveting read no matter what, it was exceptionally eery to read about some of the same experiences in the books of the brothers told from completely different perspectives.
Robison was raised by parents during their happy period and their downward spiral into unhappiness where Burroughs writes of parents who were already in the throes of alcoholism, mental breaks, and cruel games. As a child, he yearns to be close to his father even though every attempt at personal contact is met with repulsion. It isn't until his father has terrorized his mother, killed his pets, and alienated him entirely, that a still young Augusten realizes that there is something missing in his father. A vital piece of humanity that just isn't there.
Rating: ***
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