In the Garden of Beasts, The Devil in the White City, and Dead Wake are some of my favorite nonfiction books by Erik Larson. The way he compiles letters, notes, and documents to create a cohesive story is incredible. You forget you’re reading a nonfiction book and get so invested in these real life characters. I was so excited when The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz was released and picked up the book instantly. If you haven’t read it yet and enjoy a good nonfiction read, pick up this book immediately!
The Gist
Erik Larson takes on the task of characterizing Winston Churchill and Britain’s struggle during World War II. Beginning before the German Occupation in France, Churchill’s new administration is faced with the impossible task of taking on Hitler and his growing Third Reich. With interludes of Churchill’s family life, the book shows Churchill’s showmanship and courage in the face of war. It gives life to London’s struggle during the blitz and how it affected Londoners day-to-day experience.
Standing Up to the Bad Guys
Oh Winson Churchill. What an interesting man. Having never read a biography on this key historical figure, The Splendid and the Vile was my first take on Winston Churchill. I never knew he was so serious about his baths…I guess that’s one thing we have in common.
The book was entirely inspiring with Churchill’s best speeches laid out with fantastic context to understand their impact. “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.” I mean how does that not get you geared up to protect the homeland?
The thing I loved about this book most though was not the amazing characterization of Churchill. Instead, I fell in love with all of the side characters – from Mary Churchill to “the Prof” to John Colville. I loved the moments of levity – Beaverbrook’s constant letters of resignation, Colville’s unrequited love with Gay Margesson, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s reaction to a nude Winston Churchill in the White House. The supporting characters really built the story for me and gave historical context – not only was a war going on but people were actively trying to live their lives.
In my humble opinion, Erik Larson delivered another well written, poignant, and interesting nonfiction book about a man doing his very best to get his country though its very worst.
Alyssa Flores
Alyssa reads hundreds of books a year and is on a never-ending quest to find the perfect book.
