After covering the story for the local newspaper, Wehrman learned Krimm's family had not heard from him in 16 years. His mother did not know whether he'd ever married or fathered children, whether he was dead or alive. She also learned the robber had been molested as a boy, and that he sexually abused his younger brother for years when they were growing up. But amazingly, his brother, H. Rob Krimm, joined the U.S. military and retired after 20 years honorable service.
"What turns one victim into a predator and the other into a hero?"
Wehrman knew the only way to explore that theme was to research the robber's crimes, following his trail from Michigan, to Utah, north into Canada, back to the United States, and all the way to a remote corner of northwestern North Dakota -- practically to her own backyard.
Wehrman recommends the book for fans of true crime stories, as well as to victims of crime and abuse because of the positive message it brings, illuminating the path of one man's redemption, despite the odds.
It also shows in graphic detail the costs borne by all of us when victims use their childhood abuse as an excuse to harm others.
The truth is there are many more Jimmy Krimm's out there, but there are just as many survivors who will never stop fighting to overcome the past.
The psychological study of the serial criminal is fascinating, but what really grabs readers is the story of Rob Krimm, who became a productive member of society, despite growing up with a serial bank robber.
