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Furious Hours

336 pages, 2019

history

history

999 books
biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
Takeaways
Description

In the late 1970s, Harper Lee's hometown of Monroeville, Alabama, was rocked by a series of murders. An insurance-scamming preacher and his family were gunned down by a relative in front of hundreds of witnesses, most of whom had no idea the man pulling the trigger was the same one who'd previously shot and killed five people.

 The gunman walked free, thanks to an unscrupulous lawyer who had earlier represented all five murder victims. Harper Lee traveled from New York City to her native Alabama to report on the trial for her own In Cold Blood–esque book, only to discover that an old friend of hers was covering the story for a major publication.

The Power of Persistence

In 'Furious Hours', Casey Cep shows us the importance of persistence. Harper Lee, the author of 'To Kill a Mockingbird', spent years researching for her next book, which unfortunately never got published. But her dedication and commitment to her craft is something we can all learn from.

The Intricacies of True Crime

The book gives us a deep look into the world of true crime. It explores the case of Reverend Willie Maxwell, a man accused of murdering five of his family members for insurance money. It's a chilling reminder of the dark side of human nature.

The Art of Storytelling

Casey Cep's writing style in 'Furious Hours' is a lesson in storytelling. He weaves together the lives of Harper Lee and Reverend Willie Maxwell in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. If you're an aspiring writer, this book is a must-read.

The Impact of Racial Injustice

The book also sheds light on the racial injustice prevalent in the American South during the 1970s. It's a stark reminder of the struggles faced by African Americans and the systemic racism that existed in society.

The Mystery of Harper Lee

Finally, 'Furious Hours' gives us a glimpse into the life of Harper Lee, one of the most enigmatic authors of our time. If you've ever wondered why she never published another book after 'To Kill a Mockingbird', this book might just have the answers.

Quotes 5

Furious Hours is a captivating, gripping and spellbinding journey into the world of Harper Lee. It's a must-read for anyone who loves history, true crime, and complicated heroes.

Reese WitherspoonReese Witherspoon - Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur

Furious Hours is a masterful piece of storytelling, a deeply researched, elegantly written book that deserves to be on every reading list.

Oprah WinfreyOprah Winfrey - Media Executive, Actress

Furious Hours is a fascinating blend of true crime and history. Casey Cep has written an insightful, engaging book that illuminates the life of Harper Lee in a new way.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

Furious Hours is a triumph on every level. It's a book that will both chill and educate; you can't ask for more than that.

Maureen CorriganMaureen Corrigan - Book Critic, Professor

Furious Hours is a riveting, beautifully written book. Casey Cep has taken a gripping true crime story and turned it into a major work of American history.

David GrannDavid Grann - Journalist, Author
Reese WitherspoonOprah WinfreyBill GatesMaureen CorriganDavid Grann

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