(Reviewed by JD Jung)
Issey had always been a thief, but not a particularly good one. The thrill of lifting someone’s property was overwhelming since he was a boy stealing mail. Lockpicking was his specialty, but as an adult working in Boston for a small-time gangster named Berger, he just didn’t bring in enough valuable items. A big heist was scheduled for Faneuil Hall, but Berger told Issey that he would not be part of it, and so he was essentially fired.
His older brother needed his help in cleaning out his mother’s house, as she was moving in with her latest husband. With a bruised ego and nothing else to do, Issey returned to his small childhood town in Vermont.
Issey had to continue to steal, as his entire self-worth was entangled in this vocation. Though he had previous run-ins with the law, he prided himself in that he never used or carried a gun while committing a burglary. He also found that breaking in and pilfering from these people was just too easy, but he prided himself on that.
Soon, when he finds that three horses are stolen, and not by him, he feels his stability threatened. However, he soon discovers a new and rather novel way to enhance his earnings. Though the local police are on to him, the reader is anxious to learn how our burglar will end up. Will he be arrested, does he leave town, or does he take time for self-reflection?
What I particularly enjoyed about Second Pocket First are the eccentric characters. From family to childhood friends to new acquaintances, these small-town citizens play a vital role in the story and enhance the plot. Though the story is humorous, it isn’t over the top. Though I didn’t particularly like our sociopathic protagonist, I enjoyed reading about this non-violent anti-hero.
With all the serious news and tragedies taking place, Second Pocket First provides a light, fun diversion.
