Objective journalism is hard enough, but it's hard to be an objective reader when it comes to Jon Krakauer. I admire his ability to write and tell a story, but when I read him, I have to keep a very open mind. This particular piece is complicated, has many troubling elements - deception, an inability to keep promises, mishandling of a nobly-intentioned charity's funds, and a charismatic and difficult lead character in Greg Mortenson - and at times Krakauer's writing threatens to make the story about his personal feelings of being let down and betrayed by Mortenson and his history, which turns out is not as adventurous as Mortenson claims in his own books (Three Cups of Tea; Stones Into Schools), and not about the more sinister aspects of the Central Asia Institute (CAI)'s fund mishandling, and the astonishing number of schools that are not being used. At the same time, this is an exceptional long form journalism piece, and proves once again that Krakauer is a modern master of the genre. It's also a bitter, frustrating read that leaves more questions than definitive answers. I would be curious to see a rebuttal from Mortenson and his organization.
The conclusion of Crimson Empire brings Kir Kanos' journey full circle, and back to face the last of the traitorous red guards. Mirith Sinn's role as personal bodyguard to the Head of State, Leia Organa, places her central to the story. When an assassination attempt forces Sinn to team up with Kanos, the New Republic council makes it clear they they do not trust either party. This is the redemption part of the Crimson Empire Saga, and it shines. While I'm sad to see Kanos and Sinn go in the end, their story is concluded, and in a marvelously bittersweet fashion. It's rare that a licensed property comic can dig so deep and create something as fresh as Crimson Empire, but it's a trilogy of tales well worth your time. Must reads for any "Star Wars" fan.
 - Rob Thurman)
 - W. Murray)
