Everywhere in Chains

This highly thought-provoking, sometimes amusing and always life-affirming novel illustrates one family's experiences with America's criminal justice system. As Penelope searches for the truth about her father, she rattles the skeletons in her family's closet and shakes up the complacency of her community, which has tried to sweep the past under the rug. With both perception and compassion, the author creates a colorful cast of characters while challenging the wisdom of imprisoning the mentally ill.

In the lives and interactions of its major characters, this story explores the sprawling psychological geography of America's criminal justice system and its profound effect on everyone it touches, even its most ardent proponents. While dealing with a serious, challenging subject, this book is also filled with the warmth and likeable characters. It concludes on a faith-affirming note with a parade of surprising revelations typical of its many narrative twists and turns in this complex odyssey.

James Casper James Casper spent his childhood in a rural Minnesota setting much like the one in this novel. With a master's degree from St. Louis University, he taught English at Bemidji State University and philosophy at Central Lakes College. He also taught extension courses throughout northwestern Minnesota, and for a time served as director of adult education on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. He resides with his wife in Middlesex, England.