The Columbine school shootings have surfaced as the source of inspiration for “Project X,” the new book by novelist Jim Shepard. Edwin Hanratty is a sensitive but anti-social eighth-grader who ranks himself at the bottom of his school’s pecking order. In his words, he’s “the kid you think about when you want to make yourself feel better.” Edwin and his only friend, the aptly named “Flake,” are victims of constant bullying. Together, they concoct a plan to take revenge on their tormenters. Neal Charnoff talks with novelist Jim Shepard about “Project X.”
“Project X” is published by Knopf. Jim Shepard will be appearing at Northshire Books in Manchester on Friday evening at 7.