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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Bonnie and Clyde by Paul Schneider

I first heard of Bonnie and Clyde back in the 1960's when I was too young to have any clue who they were and what they did. Their names really stuck with me.

Bonnie is of course the Scottish word for beautiful and the Clyde is the big river which flows out through the city of Glasgow which I grew up practically on the banks of. It took until a couple of weeks ago when I picked up Bonnie and Clyde - the lives behind the legend by Paul Schneider for me to really learn what they were all about.

If you're looking for a cheerful read, this book is not for you. However as an interesting journey into the human condition and America in the 1920's I'd recommend it. I really found myself absorbed by the downhill slippery slope these two people were on. Of course I already knew the ending, but the twists, turns and agonies which led them there were in a way compelling.

I think this book would make a good college-level, or upper high school read. There's plenty of blood, violence and law breaking of course, so bear that in mind. There is even one really bad photo. The author doesn't turn it into a circus act though - I found myself enlightened about their story without much emotional attachment, either good or bad.

It would also be great for a homeschooling parent who just wants a change of pace and to be reminded that life in the 2000's is overall pleasant and safe, at least for most of us in America.

You can see inside Bonnie and Clyde, the lives behind the legend at Amazon.com.

4 comments:

Ruralmama said...

This is totally weird becaue I am currently reading a book called Murder in Minnesota which is written in a sort of detached, witty manner. It was written in the 1960's and catalogues a bunch of really ancient murders from when Minnesota had just become a state.

It must just be that time of the year....

Alison Kerr said...

Sounds like you have another reading suggestion for me Ruralmama :-)

Paul Schneider said...

Hey, thanks for the nice review of my book! If you ever do assign it to your homeschooled, I'd be happy to answer their questions...In fact, we should come up with a way to link homeschoolers with writers--who are always looking for ways to connect with readers (and sell a few books... :)

Paul S

Alison Kerr said...

Hi Paul, thanks for coming over and commenting. I think it's a great idea to link up homeschoolers and authors. I'm not sure if that's being done already. Well, obviously not for you. Thanks for offering :-)

 
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