In Cold Blood - Truman Capote

Recommended for ages 16-adult.

I was in two minds about including Capote's famous novel here. On the one hand it is a frightening and at times violent tale which delves into the minds and histories of two cold-blooded murderers. But on the other hand it is a brilliant piece of writing. It is gripping, suspenseful at times (although Capote doesn't overuse the privilege), fast-paced and elegantly written. As one reviewer says it is "as precise as surgery".

If you want to learn to really refine your writing style, read Capote and see how he manages his tale. But make sure that you can distance yourself from crime stories, or you will find In Cold Blood very chilling indeed. As someone who really doesn't enjoy crime fiction, this book was a stretch. Capote's fluid writing style made persevering with his novel worth my while and provided access into the mind of a murderer in the most appropriate ways. Capote doesn't use violence as a tool for manipulating the reader, but the way he writes about it is quite extraordinary.

Best to leave this book to older readers because of its themes, although mature readers 16-ish and up will appreciate its written expression. If you do like crime fiction, then this will blow you away.