Received today from Jubby as part of the Southern Cross Book Exchange. Thanks very much Jubby. This was relatively recently added to my wish list so it is grand to have the wish fulfilled so quickly.
From the back cover:-
"Controversial and compelling, "In Cold Blood" reconstructs the murder in 1959 of a Kansas farmer, his wife and children. Truman Capote's comprehensive study of the killings and subsequent investigations explores the circumstances surrounding this terrible crime and the effect it had on those involved. At the centre of his study are the amoral young killers Perry Smith and Dick Hickock, who, vividly drawn by Capote, are shown to be reprehensible, yet entirely and frighteningly human."

This book that made Capote's name is a seminal work of modern prose, a remarkable synthesis of journalistic skill and powerfully evocative narrative.

While it has taken me over 10 months to read this book it has surely now lived up to its promised potential. The first part of it kept me riveted wondering what was going to happen even though I knew the outline of the story while I found some of the detailed psychological studies nearer the end needed slightly more concentration. Nevertheless, I'm delighted to have this one on hand for further reflection.
When local prosecutions in NZ go to great lengths to explore the unfortunate circumstances in killers early lives it is easy to dismiss the defence arguments on behalf of their clients, especially when the crimes are as horrific as the Clutter murders.
Equally, arguments both pro and con capital punishments can stir lengthy debate. There certainly does not appear to be convincing arguments about the effect on lowering the murder rate in places that still have capital punishment.
Guess I am still confused. Unless I miss read it there doesn't seem to be religious reasons behind the actions of Smith and Hickock.
The writing is magnificent and I'm really pleased to have read it, thanks to Jubby.

Will be on a table in the Arizona Bar. Wellington Bookcrossers will be meeting there and likely one of them might 'catch' the book else some body else might.

Dear Reader.
Thank you for picking up this book! Please make a journal entry here to let me know that this book has found a good home with you. You may choose to remain anonymous or to join (its free). If you join, please consider indicating that Sherlockfan referred you. I hope you enjoy the book. You can make another journal entry with your comments when you’ve finished reading. Whenever you’re ready to send it on its way, make a journal entry if you are giving or sending this book to a known person, or release notes if you are leaving it "in the wild" again for anyone to catch. Then watch its journey. You’ll be alerted by e-mail each time someone makes another journal entry. It’s confidential (you’re known only by your screen name and no one is ever given your e-mail address), and it’s spam-free.
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For the IHC OBCZ

Dear Reader. Thank you for picking up this book! Please make a journal entry here to let me know that this book has found a good home with you. You may choose to remain anonymous or to join (its free). If you join, please consider indicating that Edwardstreet referred you. I hope you enjoy the book. You can make another journal entry with your comments when you’ve finished reading. Whenever you’re ready to send it on its way, make a journal entry if you are giving or sending this book to a known person, or release notes if you are leaving it "in the wild" again for anyone to catch. Then watch its journey. You’ll be alerted by e-mail each time someone makes another journal entry. It’s confidential (you’re known only by your screen name and no one is ever given your e-mail address), and spam-free.
Wellington Bookcrossers often get together for a chat and a coffee, drink or meal . Contact Edward Street for details we would love to meet you.

Borrowed this book off a friend so thought I'd get the journal back up and running, I haven't read it yet but will be back in touch once I've done so! Peace