73 pages • 2 hours read
Killers of the Flower Moon
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Book Brief
400
Book • Nonfiction
Oklahoma • 1920s
2017
Adult
18+ years
1090L
Super Short Summary
Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann recounts the 1920s Reign of Terror, during which members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma were murdered for their oil wealth, often under mysterious circumstances, as authorities and private agencies failed to solve the crimes. Tom White and the Bureau of Investigation eventually uncovered evidence implicating prominent local figures, including William Hale and the Burkhart brothers. The book also explores Grann's research into the prolonged and pervasive nature of these killings. The narrative describes extreme violence and racist anti-Indigenous stereotypes.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
460,164 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
David Grann's Killers of the Flower Moon provides a gripping narrative of the Osage murders in the 1920s, praised for its meticulous research and compelling storytelling. While some critics find the extensive historical detail occasionally overwhelming, the book's powerful exploration of systemic corruption and racial injustice receives overwhelming acclaim. A must-read for true crime and history enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Killers of the Flower Moon?
A reader who enjoys meticulously researched historical narratives and crime investigations would be captivated by Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann. Fans of Erik Larson’s The Devil in the White City or Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood will appreciate the blend of true crime and historical insight.
460,164 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mollie Burkhart
Mollie Burkhart
Mollie Burkhart was an Osage woman whose family was victimized during the Osage Reign of Terror in the 1920s. Her story serves as the entry point for Grann's exploration of the era.
William Hale
William Hale
William Hale was a wealthy and influential political figure in Oklahoma, known as the "King of the Osage Hills." He was involved in the Osage murders, betraying the community he was believed to support.
Ernest Burkhart
Ernest Burkhart
Ernest Burkhart was married to Mollie Burkhart and worked under his uncle William Hale. He became involved in the Osage murders due to his uncle's influence.
Tom White
Tom White
Tom White was the lead investigator for the Bureau of Investigation tasked with solving the Osage murders. His efforts were pivotal in bringing the culprits to justice.
J. Edgar Hoover
J. Edgar Hoover
J. Edgar Hoover was the director of the Bureau of Investigation during the Osage murder case, seeking to enhance the Bureau's reputation through the case's successful resolution.
400
Book • Nonfiction
Oklahoma • 1920s
2017
Adult
18+ years
1090L
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