Damned to Eternity
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2007 |
| Founder | Adam Pitluk |
| Products | True crime book |
| Parent | Da Capo Press |
Damned to Eternity is a true crime book published in 2007, authored by journalist and scholar Adam Pitluk. It focuses on the case of James Scott, who was convicted in 1993 for damaging a levee, an act that exacerbated flooding conditions.
Publication
Adam Pitluk, previously a reporter for Time and writer of Standing Eight: The Inspiring Story of Jesus “El Matador” Chavez, Who Became Lightweight Champion of the World (2006), is the author of Damned to Eternity. This work was released by Da Capo Press in 2007.
Synopsis
The narrative centers on James Scott, found guilty of breaching a levee along the Mississippi River near West Quincy, Missouri, which played a role in the Great Flood of 1993. Scott, characterized as an alcoholic with a background as a former Burger King worker, also had a record of mental health challenges and childhood incidents involving arson. Although he volunteered during the flood crisis, his participation was inconsistent. After reporting damage to the levee, he was accused and ultimately convicted of causing it.
While the book raises questions about potential judicial errors, it maintains an impartial position regarding Scott’s culpability.
Critical reception and aftermath
Kirkus Reviews labeled the book as "thorough but uncommitted," highlighting its neutral approach to Scott’s guilt. Publishers Weekly commended Pitluk for delivering an "excellent account," and the Star Tribune described the work as engaging.
In 2022, Pitluk took part in producing the Vice News documentary Overlooked, which revisited themes explored in the book.