by Larson, Erik
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In Thunderstruck, Erik Larson tells two stories of Edwardian Britain. He recounts the struggle of Guglielmo Marconi to perfect and profit from wireless telegraphy and the history of Dr. Crippen, an American pursued by Scotland Yard for the murder of his wife. Larson unfolds the dual narratives in a style that readers of his Devil in the White City (2003) will recognize: alternating descriptions of genius and criminality, told with maximum dramatic effect. Larson brings out the parallels between the 1910s and our own day: new communications technology and new twists on old crimes. He makes the past seem nearer and more fascinating.
- reviewed by Tom, University City Regional, PLCMC