LIFE EXPECTANCY stands as a book with many a symbolisms. The title itself is symbolism. Life expectancy is the rate at which statistics are made on our lives. In the end though fate holds us. Jimmy is a very indearing character just as Odd Thomas was (ODD THOMAS, 2003-Read it). Unlike Odd though Jimmy is kind of thrust into his dilemmas. I believe this is one Dean's best books narratively. The recent turn to first-person gives a new resenation to his books which is great. It was a big departure from his last book THE TAKING. The only reason I didn't award five stars was because the book is kind of predictable in places. Foreshadowing does this novel in some areas an injustice. The plot was quite thick towards the end and the ending was very gratifying a circular. When you read the book you will notice the pages fly! You won't be able to put it down. Rating: *****
