BOOK BRIEF

The Onion Field

Joseph Wambaugh
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The Onion Field

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007

Book Brief

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Joseph Wambaugh

The Onion Field

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1960s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Onion Field by Joseph Wambaugh recounts the distressing experience of two Los Angeles police officers abducted during a routine traffic stop. It details the subsequent trial and the lasting psychological impacts on the officers involved. This true crime narrative examines the resilience of law enforcement personnel and the complexities of the justice system.

Reviews & Readership

4.2

22,147 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Joseph Wambaugh's The Onion Field receives praise for its gripping narrative and realistic portrayal of police work, rooted in his own law enforcement experience. Critics commend its emotional depth and detailed character studies. However, some find its pacing uneven and the gritty content may be unsettling for sensitive readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Onion Field?

Readers with an interest in true crime, police procedurals, and psychological drama will be captivated by Joseph Wambaugh's The Onion Field. Fans of Truman Capote's In Cold Blood and Vincent Bugliosi's Helter Skelter will appreciate the gritty, detailed narrative and in-depth character exploration.

4.2

22,147 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1960s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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