Books matching: capital punishment
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- #1
Save:The Last Day of a Condemned Man by Victor Hugo is a short but psychologically powerful novel that delves into the inner thoughts of a man awaiting his execution via the guillotine in 19th century France. The book focuses on the condemned man's psychological journey as he grapples with impending death, the haunting memories of his past, and the societal attitudes towards capital punishment. Through a first-person diary format, Hugo skillfully portrays the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist in his final moments.
Hugo's writing style in The Last Day of a Condemned Man is poignant and thought-provoking, offering a stark critique of the death penalty while highlighting the humanity of the condemned man. The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, societal injustice, and the complex emotions surrounding mortality. Despite being published anonymously in 1829, the book remains relevant with its powerful portrayal of the psychological impact of impending death and its timeless plea for compassion and empathy towards those facing the ultimate punishment.
Once, and it seems as if it were years and not weeks ago, I was like other men. Each day, each hour, each moment, was full. My mind was young and active, and it delighted in fancies. One after another... - #2
Save:In 'The Confession' by John Grisham, the story follows the wrongful conviction of Donte Drumm for the rape and murder of Nicole Yarber, while the real killer, Travis Boyette, carries the guilt. The book delves into the legal thriller genre as Donte faces execution in Texas, with last-minute confessions and appeals taking place. Grisham's writing style is described as a mix of suspense, sympathy for the innocent, and frustration with the justice system, with a focus on the flaws of the death penalty and wrongful convictions.
The plot unfolds with a Lutheran minister getting involved in the case, the complexities of the legal system, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Grisham weaves a story that tackles social issues, presents a page-turner narrative, and evokes emotions of heartbreak, disgust, and contemplation on the justice system and the death penalty.
The custodian at St. Mark’s had just scraped three inches of snow off the sidewalks when the man with the cane appeared. The sun was up, but the winds were howling; the temperature was stuck at the fr... 'The Death Penalty: An American History' by Stuart Banner delves into the historical evolution of capital punishment in the United States. It covers a wide range of topics from the origins of the death penalty, including hangings and public executions, to the transition to more modern methods like the gas chamber, electric chair, and lethal injection. The writing style is described as heavily researched, providing detailed accounts of historical events and legal debates surrounding the death penalty. While some readers find the focus on historical facts engaging, others feel that the book lacks a more personal touch or in-depth analysis of specific cases.
- #4
Save:"The Seven Who Were Hanged" by Leonid Andreyev tells the story of five terrorists arrested before they could carry out an assassination of a government minister, along with two criminals guilty of murder. The plot begins with the minister's horrified realization of the planned assassination, highlighting the horror of judicial execution. Andreyev focuses on the individual experiences of the condemned, portraying their different emotions and reactions leading up to their execution, creating an existential masterpiece against capital punishment.
The minister was a big fat man prone to apoplexy, so, to avoid unhealthy excitement, all possible precautions were taken before he was warned of a very serious attempt on his life that was being plann... - #5
Save:"Detective" by Arthur Hailey is a multi-layered detective story that delves into the world of police work, where detailed investigations and patience are key. The main character, Sergeant Ainsley, is portrayed as an ex-priest turned homicide detective who brings a unique approach to solving murders by drawing clues from his ecclesiastical background. is described as gripping from start to finish, with a well-developed plot that leaves room for further stories. However, some readers found the writing style to be dated and the pacing to be slow due to the author's comprehensive detailing of characters and motivations.
Almost imperceptibly, Thorne nodded. Good, 'cause I'd like to keep talking too. But there's something we need to get out of the way you know how regulations are. So I have to tell you this, Maggie, fo... - #6
Save:Time's Witness by Michael Malone is a gripping mystery novel set in North Carolina, following police chief Cuddy Mangum as he navigates the retrial of a black convicted murderer while investigating the shooting death of his brother. The book delves into themes of racism, capital punishment, corruption, and the complexities of the justice system, culminating in a riveting courtroom drama. Malone's writing style is praised for its elegant phrasing, rich characterizations, and the interweaving of multiple plots that bring the new South to life through the eyes of the complex protagonist, Cuddy Mangum.
George Hall was over in Vietnam trying hard not to get killed when the death penalty went out of fashion back home. That was 1967. At the time some kind folks thought we had us a moral revolution goin...
(Also, see 12 recommendations for the series Savile and Mangum ) - #7
Save:'Our Happy Time' by Gong Jiyoung is a thought-provoking and emotional novel that delves into themes of forgiveness, acceptance, mistakes, and lessons learned through the unlikely friendship between the characters. The book explores soul-searching for answers to life's questions, addressing issues such as poverty, suicide, and capital punishment. The story is told in alternating narratives, providing different perspectives that are connected by the character of Aunt Monica, a nun who visits those on death row to help them find peace.
The writing style in 'Our Happy Time' is described as beautifully written, emotional, and raw, evoking deep emotions in readers. The book offers a poignant and human story that deals with sensitive topics while making readers reflect on their own lives and values. The plot unfolds in a way that surprises and engages readers, with secrets and dark pasts being revealed, highlighting the differences between the rich and the poor and showcasing the characters' journeys of growth and self-discovery.
Harlem is there by way of a divine indictment against New York City and the people who live downtown and make their money downtown. The brothels of Harlem, and all its prostitution, and its dope rings... - #8
Save:'The Weatherman' by Steve Thayer is a gripping regional mystery set in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. The story follows a brilliant meteorologist, a faceless burn victim, and a serial killer, creating a tale filled with haunting suspense and well-paced storytelling. Despite some mixed opinions on the ending and writing pacing, readers found the book to be a page-turner that keeps the heart rate up with its murder and discovery narrative.
It was a cold act on a hot June day. The temperature was 98 degrees Fahrenheit—36.6 on the centigrade scale. The relative humidity was 69 percent with sticky dew points in the low 70s. The barometric ... - #9
Save:The Executioner's Song by Norman Mailer is a Pulitzer Prize-winning true crime novel that delves into the last nine months of murderer Gary Gilmore's life, leading up to his execution in Utah in 1977. The book captures the attention to detail and portrayal of a time and place, showcasing the absurdity of capital punishment through fine and banal descriptions. It provides an in-depth exploration of Gary Gilmore's desires, crimes, legal battles, and the media frenzy surrounding his case.
Brenda was six when she fell out of the apple tree. She climbed to the top and the limb with the good apples broke off. Gary caught her as the branch came scraping down. They were scared. The apple tr... - #10
Save:'Gallows Thief' by Bernard Cornwell is a historical fiction novel set in 1817 London, post Napoleonic wars. The story follows Captain Rider Sandman, a Waterloo veteran turned investigator, who is hired to prove the innocence of a man sentenced to hang for a murder he did not commit. Sandman delves into the seamy streets of London, uncovering the flaws in the justice system and racing against time to find the real killer before it's too late. combines elements of murder mystery, social commentary, and historical accuracy to create a thrilling narrative that captures the ambiance of early 19th-century London.
With a writing style akin to Cornwell's Sharpe novels, 'Gallows Thief' presents readers with a well-crafted plot, a likeable protagonist in Sandman, and sturdy supporting characters that add depth to the story. offers a departure from Cornwell's usual battle-heavy narratives, focusing instead on the intricacies of the criminal justice system, the social dynamics of the era, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Cornwell brings Regency England to life, weaving together elements of mystery, historical accuracy, and social commentary into a captivating tale of justice and redemption.
RIDER SANDMAN WAS UP LATE THAT MONDAY MORNING because he had been paid seven guineas to play for Sir John Hart’s eleven against a Sussex team, the winners to share a bonus of a hundred guineas, and Sa...
