I can’t recall the last book I read by Joyce Carol Oates, but in the interest of reading some well-written fiction, I was happy to receive a copy of her latest, Babysitter, in exchange for this review. (you know, like taking vitamins – it will be good for me to read something other than mystery/thrillers). 

The story takes place in Detroit, in  the late 1970s. Here are the main characters: Hannah, the wife of a prominent local businessman, who is having an  affair with I’m-not-sure-who. Mikey, a street hustler who finds himself on a mission to achieve justice. And the Babysitter, part of the elite of Detroit. As the Babysitter continues abducting and killing kids, and somehow the main characters intersect with one another.

That may be pretty vague, but TBH I had trouble with time jumping around as well as shifting narratives. Maybe I’m not ready for better quality “literature” (as opposed to the stuff I usually read). It does have suspense, and I enjoyed the exploration of corrupt politics, racism, and sexual predators. I think. I’m going four stars despite my own failing to follow and appreciate. Ms Oates deserves better than three stars, whoever is reading her work.