Reasons to Read:
1. It’s got a little bit of everything—action, romance, mystery—to keep you entertained
2. It’s very closely based on a true story, so you’re getting memorable historical details on America from 1901-1969 without even noticing it
Page Count: 368 (paperback)
For Fans of: Historical Fiction, “Public Enemies,” Bonnie and Clyde, “Titanic,” vintage Hollywood
No-Spoilers Plot:
Willie Sutton is born poor and Irish in turn-of-the-century New York, and he doesn’t mind until he meets Bess Endner on Coney Island. Bess’s father, a shipping magnate, doesn’t approve of their romance, so Bess convinces Willie to rob her father’s safe and run away with her. It marks the beginning of Willie’s long career as “The Actor,” the infamous bank robber and folk hero who carries big guns but makes a point of never hurting anyone. “Sutton” takes the reader on a journey, from Willie’s parole on Christmas Eve, 1969, back through his life as a bank robber, escapist, gardener, secretary, and, above all, lover.
The Long and Short:
“Sutton” is a beautifully written story of America as it used to be, with its old-time heroes and romances. But the problems are very real and relevant, and it’s easy to feel sympathy for Willie, if not outright admiration. The pages go by quickly, with events piling up to keep the reader interested, and it’s easy to put down, pick up days later, and follow along—or get sucked into and blaze through. Thoroughly enjoyable, entertaining, and lovely; a little like watching a movie.
Every Thursday, I’ll be posting a new book recommendation, aiming for light beach reading material. Got a recommendation for me? Response to the book? Comment below!
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