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58 pages 1 hour read

Thunderstruck

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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Erik Larson

Thunderstruck

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • Edwardian Era

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Thunderstruck by Erik Larson intertwines the development of Marconi's wireless communication technology and the notorious London murder committed by Dr. Crippen, culminating in a dramatic transatlantic pursuit. Set in the pre-World War I era, Larson highlights Edwardian London’s societal quirks and captures the public’s imagination through two disparate yet intersecting narratives, reflecting themes of innovation and intrigue. The book features graphically detailed murder and post-mortem investigations.

Informative

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

59,998 ratings

66%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Erik Larson's Thunderstruck intertwines a riveting murder mystery with the invention of wireless technology. Reviews praise its engaging narrative and meticulous research, but some find it slow-paced and overly detailed. Overall, Larson's storytelling effectively blends history and true crime for a captivating read. MLA: Thunderstruck by Erik Larson.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Thunderstruck?

Readers who enjoy gripping historical narratives with elements of true crime and scientific innovation will find Thunderstruck by Erik Larson captivating. Fans of Larson's own The Devil in the White City or David Grann's The Lost City of Z will appreciate the meticulous research and compelling storytelling in this blend of history and suspense.

4.0

59,998 ratings

66%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Guglielmo Marconi

An affluent Italian inventor driven by a singular focus on wireless communication, known for his secretive and paranoid nature throughout his career.

The chief engineer at the British Post Office, who mentors Marconi and supports his early experiments but later becomes his rival.

A physicist who demonstrates Hertz’s electromagnetic discoveries and becomes Marconi's rival, with an interest in the supernatural.

An American homeopath who moves to England, known for his mild manner and complicated personal life.

Crippen's ambitious second wife, who harbors dreams of stardom but faces challenges in the pursuit.

An employee at the same company as Crippen, she becomes his companion after the disappearance of Belle Elmore.

A seasoned and methodical investigator at New Scotland Yard, involved in high-profile cases such as the Crippen investigation.

A captain of the SS Montrose, known for his adventurous past and use of Marconi's wireless to report suspicious passengers.

Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • Edwardian Era

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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