John Berendt follows Capote and Mailer in writing a hugely popular true crime non-fiction novel.In 1981, Jim Williams shot Danny Hansford in his Savannah mansion. Danny worked part time for Jim, but their relationship was fuzzier than simply professional. The murder, local reactions, and the resulting 4 trials make up a main part of the book but the colorful supporting characters round out this non-fiction novel perfectly.
The term 'non-fiction novel' refers to the fact that the book reads like a novel but is based on true facts. However the author's note at the end, and a close inspection of when Berendt actually arrived in Savannah, acknowledges some liberties with characters, motivations and dialogue.
In addition to the true crime interest, this book also covers the history of Savannah, a very unique city. Fans of Southern Gothic books may appreciate both the historical facts, and a glimpse into some of the unique local workings, including voodoo, which was the inspiration for the title.
Our collection includes other Savannah reads, including some mysteries set in Savannah that would be a good match for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Savannah, Georgia Fiction
Savannah, Georgia Travel
Savannah, Georgia History
