Okay, maybe I watched too much coverage of the Casey Anthony trial while I was sick and unable to read or do much of anything else. Or maybe this just speaks to my continued fascination with all things true crime. But when I saw this book on the table at my library's used book sale I just couldn't resist. I never tire of reading these books that delve into the minds and motivations of those that kill others. I know for some it is a strange reading genre but it has long been a genre that both terrifies and fascinates me. This particular book details the story of two teenagers who kill their abusive father. I'm not sure when I will have the stomach to read it but it will sit on my shelf and wait for the right moment.
The Rise of Silas Lapham by William Dean Howells
And now for something completely different...
I read this book in college for a Social History class. I don't remember much about it so I guess that is one reason why I picked it up to read again. It seems sad that I read this for a class and can't remember remember much about it. The book delves into what happens when someone goes from rags to riches. How are the nouveau riche different from those that come from old money? What do we get when we become rich and what do we give up? The book was written in the late 1800's but the story of what we give up when we get money or become highly successful is certainly just as relevant now.
I'll see everyone back here on Friday when I give you a preview of what I have planned this weekend in the way of bookish activities!
I enjoy true crime too, so The Poison Tree appeals to me too.
ReplyDeleteKathy(Bermudaonion): Glad I'm not the only one!
ReplyDeleteThe Rise of Silas Lapham sounds pretty interesting. I hope your week is going well.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read either of these! Can't wait to see what you think of them.
ReplyDeleteoh that's cool. i really miss library booksales. i have to go check out the ongoing one nearby me soon!
ReplyDeleteThe Rise of Silas Lapham
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I love the interaction between the two families (I forgot their names - Just read the book in library years ago..)
The Rise of Silas L sounds like a good one Kathleen...had not heard of it previously.
ReplyDeleteNo, no, no, you know you will never be alone in your love for true crime. It is like my literary bon-bon. But Casey Anthony can suck it...never reading anything she will profit from.
ReplyDeleteI quite liked Silas Lapham. I had to read another Howells book in grad school (A Modern Instance). That one I don't remember at all. Given where my reading tastes have evolved since 1996 I am guessing I would probably like A Modern Instance more than I did when I had to read it under deadline in school.
ReplyDeleteI didn't "discover" Silas until well after my formal school days, but it turned out to be one of the most memorable books from that period I've ever read...very underrated book, IMO.
ReplyDeleteI was not familar with Silas Lapham, but it sounds like something I would really like. Thanks for highlighting it; I'm going to see if my library has it as an audiobook as I find that I enjoy listening to classics on my ipod when I walk outside.
ReplyDeleteI read a William Dean Howells novel a while back and really loved it. So you may be in for a treat with that one. And I do understand the lure of true crime - it can be fascinating.
ReplyDeleteOver the last few years I've also become more and more fascinated by crime fiction - it all started with the Nordic Noir stuff (Mankell, Stieg Larsson, etc). I will read a number of crime stories in a row and then get fed up and switch off from the genre, only to succumb again some time later... In other words, nothing to worry about! Just enjoy them, it's often good escapism, when you need it. Moreover, there are some really good ones around, with a lot more to say than simply resolving a crime!
ReplyDeleteI read the rise of silas Lapham in college too and have only vague memories of it. I hope your reread ends up being good!
ReplyDeleteThey both sound like interesting reads, especially The Rise of Silas Lapham!
ReplyDeleteI haven't heard of them both until now. Happy reading!
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