Between two thieves

"Between Two Thieves" by Richard Dehan is a story set in the Canton of Alpenzell, about an old, paralyzed man named Hector Dunoisse, as he recalls his bustling past while watching life go by in his village. The novel suggests important subjects such as war, humanity, and the delicate nature of life, as Dunoisse copes with memories of when he was vibrant and considers his limitations today. As he sits in his chair, the narrative portrays the beauty around Dunoisse, from sunsets to aeroplanes. Conversations with others show his thoughts on how air travel could help during wartime. Dunoisse's past is spoken of through the eyes of an English couple who see him as saintly. The divide between his contributions to helping people and his helpless situation becomes obvious as Dunoisse thinks about his past, and it sets the scene for a better look at his character and the importance of his memories as the story goes forward.