Structure

The book is divided into 28 chapters. Each chapter is very short, varying in length from four to twelve pages. The hardcover version is 119 pages. The book opens with a present tense narrative of Knight’s last burglary from Knight’s perspective, and continues with a present tense narrative of Hughes preparing to capture Knight. The opening sequence ends with a present tense narrative of Vance arresting and questioning Knight. Finkel introduces the cabin owners’ perspective. Then he introduces his own interest in Knight’s story.

The main section of the book spans the seven months that Knight is in jail. In this section, Finkel alternates between Knight’s personal history, how Knight survived, and explores the main themes the book in broader historical and academic perspectives.

The final section of the book covers Knight’s release from jail and his subsequent challenges integrating into society. Finkel describes...