TL;DR
A captivating true-crime book set in Savannah, Georgia, blending Southern charm with a gripping murder case and a colorful cast of characters.
What is Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil about
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the eccentricities and scandals of Savannah, Georgia. Published in 1994, this New York Times bestseller masterfully combines true crime with Southern charm, painting a vivid portrait of the city and its unforgettable residents. The narrative revolves around the mysterious shooting of Danny Hansford by wealthy antiques dealer Jim Williams and the subsequent trials, interwoven with Berendt's observations of Savannah's unique social fabric.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil 5 Key Takeaways
Southern Gothic Atmosphere
The book captures the enchanting and eerie atmosphere of Savannah, Georgia, highlighting its moss-draped oaks, historic mansions, and quirky social customs.
Complex Characters
Berendt introduces a diverse cast of characters, including aristocratic society ladies, a voodoo priestess, a black drag queen, and an arrogant antiques dealer, each contributing to the city's rich tapestry.
True Crime Narrative
At the heart of the book is the real-life murder case of Jim Williams, who was tried four times for the shooting of Danny Hansford. The trials reveal much about Savannah's legal and social complexities.
Blending Fiction and Non-Fiction
Though a work of non-fiction, the book reads like a novel due to Berendt's engaging storytelling and rich descriptive prose, making the true events even more compelling.
Social Intrigue and Scandals
The book explores the intricate social dynamics and hidden scandals of Savannah, providing a window into the lives of its eccentric inhabitants.
Top Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Quotes
- 'Rule number one: Always stick around for one more drink. That’s when things happen. That’s when you find out everything you want to know.'
- 'If you're hungry, you go to a restaurant. If you're thirsty, you go to a bar. If you're lonely, you go to a church. But if you don't know where the hell you're going, you come here.'
Who should read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil?
This book is ideal for readers who enjoy true crime, Southern Gothic literature, and character-driven narratives. Those fascinated by eccentric personalities, social dynamics, and the charm of Southern cities will find it especially engaging.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Best Reviews
- 'Elegant and wicked.... [This] might be the first true-crime book that makes the reader want to book a bed and breakfast for an extended weekend at the scene of the crime.' —The New York Times Book Review
- 'An enormously engaging portrait of a most beguiling Southern city.' —The New York Times
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Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil FAQs
What is the book 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil' about?
The book explores the eccentricities and scandals of Savannah, Georgia, blending true crime and Southern charm through the story of a mysterious murder case.
Is 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil' a novel or non-fiction?
It is a non-fiction book that reads like a novel, combining real events with engaging storytelling.
Who are the main characters in the book?
Notable characters include Jim Williams, an antiques dealer; Minerva, a voodoo priestess; and a host of Savannah's unique residents, each adding depth to the narrative.