Libra - Don DeLillo --------------------- 4 Stars

This book ended up being an interesting read that had connections to two previous review. First, I really found DeLillo's Underworld an interesting read when I took on a while ago (can't believe it's been a decade!). Here is the review. The connection is more odd as this book had such a fascinating overlap of the recently read and reviewed American Tabloid by James Ellroy. In fact, Ellroy based much of his book on Libra as the similarities are notable.

If you have not read either, both are historical fiction narratives about the life of Lee Harvey Oswald and the people and events surrounding his eventual part in the assassination of JFK. As an interested and well read student of the JFK assassination and many conspiracy theories, I found both of these books interesting reads though I struggled most with the historical fiction aspects of the book. After reading multiple non-fiction books about the assassination (my two favorites - Oswald's Tale by Norman Mailer and Case Closed by Gerald Posner), it's hard to "buy into" these books that take many real life and historical events and make up the dialogue and other actions. And while I appreciate the intent of painting a much clearer and detailed picture, I often reminded myself that the author is often guessing and taking a lot of artistic license. 

That being said, I did find this book entertaining and an enjoyable read. In fact, I really couldn't put it down during the last third of the book as the preparation and plans leading up to the assassination began. Unlike American Tabloid, this book was a bit less gritty, and I preferred DeLillo's writing style to Ellroy. Ellory has much shorter prose; almost staccato like; whereas DeLillo has a more refined and smooth writing style. I also find Libra did a better job rounding out characters and giving a better and fuller representation of the people around Oswald that likely led to the events of November 22, 1963. 

And while I enjoyed the book, I could imagine others not having the same regard. First, it's a fairly dense and long book, coming in at nearly 500 pages (with some small print!). It also is pretty niche. Besides having an interest or appreciation for DeLillo (which you should because he's a great writer), the content is very specific to the JFK assassination and Oswald. Perhaps last, while not as dark as American Tabloid, it's still a story mostly about violence, deception, and spycraft. Again, great for some readers, probably not the cup of tea for others.

Feel free to check it out for yourself; meanwhile, hyperlink record with five this blog!

The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession - Michael Finkel ----------------- 3 Stars

The Art Thief recently was released and seemed like a book that I would really enjoy. Even by the title alone, one could see why it seems like a great read. And, while I did enjoy the story for the most part, I didn't find the book met the expectations I had for it.

So, the story was unknown to me and actually pretty unbelievable. This book is about the most prolific art thief in modern times (or ever?). Beginning about 20 years ago and carrying out over 200 heists of 8 years, this book chronicles his life. 

As a whole, I enjoyed the story immensely. Partly this is because I knew nothing about these crimes and also because it was so interesting to learn about the life and mindset of the man responsible for these crimes. Also interestingly, because this book is so recent, the author takes you up to almost the present in understanding the current status of the main characters of the story. It also makes clear (as much as possible) the status of the many, many pieces of art that were taken.

While the story is fantastic, and almost beyond belief, I thought the telling was just average. While there was nothing wrong with the book and the author did an acceptable job of retelling the story, I felt it was pedestrian in many ways. Amazingly, he spent over 40 hours speaking with the art thief and learning all about his crimes and story. And, even with that amazing direct access, I found the book never captured my excitement the way it could have. No cliffhanger chapter endings and nothing that left me agog. This isn't to take away at all from this incredible tale; I just felt it could have been told in an even better way.

I still recommend this book strongly. It's an easy read and a good book. And, even though only 3 stars, it's an engaging read from start to finish. It's possible I just had too high of an expectation for this book. Perhaps you should take a read for yourself and see what you think! 🧐