In Thunderstruck, Erik Larson tells the interwoven stories of two men—Hawley Crippen, a very unlikely murderer, and Guglielmo Marconi, the obsessive creator of a seemingly supernatural means of communication—whose lives intersect during one of the greatest criminal chases of all time.
I thoroughly enjoyed this true story and I loved how Larson used description to so perfectly describe the Edwardian landscape in which it takes place. Marconi was presented as an interesting if obsessive man, who had no degree in science of any kind but yet managed to do what everyone said couldn't be done: invent wireless telegraphy. Even though I knew he would succeed, I was rooting him the whole time. I was also rooting for Hawley Crippen, the unlikely murderer.
Publishers Weekly thought this was a bit slow while Library Journal called it 'fascinating' and 'thrilling.' I agree with Library Journal. I was completely engaged throughout.
In addition to Thunderstruck, Erik Larson also wrote The Devil in the White City, which I want to read, and Isaac's Storm, which I have read.
I also thought I'd share another house pic, this one of my room taken late yesterday.
Kitten looks very nice on my new quilt, don't you think?
Next weekend I hope to get some pics of the lupines...wait til you see them.
Looks like you've moved in well to your new house.
ReplyDeletePublishers Weekly is so critical. I don't think their reviewers like many books.
And when I saw the title, all I could think about was the AC/DC song.
Yes, PW can be very critical. Now I'm going to have to look up that song since I can't remember which one it is!
DeleteGlad you finally got to move in. Sounds like a great read,especially since it's a true story.
ReplyDeleteIt was very interesting. I had no idea Marconi had so much competition for his invention nor the troubles he went through to finally make it work.
DeleteBedroom is looking good. It's interesting how different reviewers see the same book. Sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteI'm liking it :)
DeleteLoving your room - and the view from the window would be a delightful way to wake up.
ReplyDeleteYour reading sounds right up my very broad alley.
Lupines? Bring them on.
Just waiting for a sunny day - if we ever get one again.
DeleteI have read Devil in White City and Dead Wake and enjoyed both. Maybe one day I'll read Thunderstruck!
ReplyDeleteI want to read Devil in the White City
DeleteWhat a gorgeous room! And thanks for sharing your take on the book. Happy reading!
ReplyDeleteI'd kick the telly out of that gorgeous bay window, and plant pillows and draperies there for a purfect reading place
ReplyDelete