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True Crime Book Club - Past Titles: Dec. 2024

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Candace Fleming on Writing

Read-Alikes & Resources

Synopsis

How did two teenagers brutally murder an innocent child...and why? And how did their brilliant lawyer save them from the death penalty in 1920s Chicago? Written by a prolific master of narrative nonfiction, this is a compulsively readable true-crime story based on an event dubbed the "crime of the century." In 1924, eighteen-year-old college students Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb made a decision- they would commit the perfect crime by kidnapping and murdering a child they both knew. But they made one crucial error- as they were disposing of the body of young Bobby Franks, whom they had bludgeoned to death, Nathan's eyeglasses fell from his jacket pocket. Multi-award-winning author Candace Fleming depicts every twist and turn of this harrowing case--how two wealthy, brilliant young men planned and committed what became known as the crime of the century, how they were caught, why they confessed, and how the renowned criminal defense attorney Clarence Darrow enabled them to avoid the death penalty. Following on the success of such books as The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh and The Family Romanov, the acclaimed nonfiction writer, Candace Fleming, brings to heart-stopping life one of the most notorious crimes in our country's history.

Discussion Questions

  1. Motive and Psychology:

    • What were the motivations behind Leopold and Loeb's decision to commit murder?
    • How does the book explore the psychological aspects of their characters?
  2. Relationship Dynamics:

    • How did the friendship between Leopold and Loeb contribute to the crime?
    • Were there warning signs or aspects of their relationship that stood out to you?
  3. Legal System and Justice:

    • How did the legal system respond to the Leopold and Loeb case?
    • Do you believe the punishment they received was just, or did it reflect the societal attitudes of the time?
  4. Socioeconomic Factors:

    • In what ways did the socioeconomic backgrounds of Leopold and Loeb influence their actions and the aftermath of the crime?
    • How did their privilege or lack thereof play a role in the narrative?
  5. Media Influence:

    • How did the media coverage of the case impact public perception and the legal proceedings?
    • Were there parallels between the media portrayal then and the way crimes are covered today?
  6. Ethical Considerations:

    • Do you think there were any ethical dilemmas faced by those involved in the investigation and trial?
    • How did the society of that time grapple with the ethical implications of the crime?
  7. Cultural Impact:

    • How has the Leopold and Loeb case left a lasting impact on popular culture and public memory?
    • Are there elements of their story that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences?
  8. Legal Legacy:

    • In what ways did the Leopold and Loeb case influence criminal law or legal practices in the years that followed?
    • Were there any changes in legal procedures or public attitudes towards crime and punishment?
  9. Personal Reflection:

    • How did reading about Leopold and Loeb's case make you reflect on the nature of crime, punishment, and morality?
    • Were there aspects of the story that challenged your own beliefs or preconceptions?

About the Author: Candace Fleming

  • Birth: Candace Fleming was born on April 5, 1962, in Evanston, Illinois, USA.

  • Education: She attended the University of Tampa, where she earned a degree in elementary education. Later, she pursued graduate studies in creative writing at Vermont College.

  • Writing Career: Candace Fleming is a versatile author who has written picture books, middle-grade novels, and nonfiction works for young readers. She is recognized for her ability to tackle a wide range of subjects and genres.

  • Genres and Themes: Fleming's works often cover historical events and figures, and she is known for her engaging storytelling and meticulous research. Her books frequently address complex subjects in a way that is accessible to young readers.

  • Notable Works:

    • "The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia" (2014): This nonfiction work explores the last days of the Romanov family, the end of imperial rule in Russia, and the rise of the Bolsheviks.
    • "The Lincolns: A Scrapbook Look at Abraham and Mary" (2008): An illustrated biography of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, providing a unique perspective on the lives of the former president and first lady.
    • "Giant Squid" (2016): A picture book that delves into the mysterious world of the giant squid, combining scientific information with poetic language and stunning illustrations.
  • Awards: Candace Fleming has received various awards and honors for her contributions to children's literature, including multiple ALA (American Library Association) Notable Book designations.

  • Collaborations: In addition to writing her own books, Fleming has collaborated with illustrators and photographers, contributing to the visual appeal of her works.

  • Writing Style: Known for her engaging and accessible writing style, Fleming often brings historical events and figures to life for young readers, making complex subjects relatable and interesting.

  • Personal Life: Information about Candace Fleming's personal life is often kept private, and details beyond her professional career may not be readily available.

Other Writings:

Honeybee

Muncha! Muncha! Muncha!

The Family Romanov

The Tidal Pool Waits

The Curse of the Mummy

Crash from Outer Space

Ben Franklin's in My Bathroom!

Amelia Lost

Bulldozer's Big Day

Cubs in the Tub

Imogene's Last Stand

Murder Among Friends

Papa's Mechanical Fish

Giant Squid

& so much more!

Fact vs Fiction: Leopold & Loeb

Nathan Leopold:

  • Birth: Nathan Leopold Jr. was born on November 19, 1904, in Chicago, Illinois.
  • Family and Background: Leopold came from a wealthy Jewish family. His father was a wealthy box manufacturer.
  • Education and Intelligence: Leopold was exceptionally intelligent and had an IQ that was reportedly in the genius range. He was a prodigy in various fields, particularly ornithology.
  • Relationship with Loeb: Leopold met Richard Loeb while they were both students at the University of Chicago. They developed a close friendship, sharing common interests in intellectual pursuits and criminal activities.
  • Crime: Leopold, along with Loeb, committed the infamous crime known as the "Leopold and Loeb Case" or the "Crime of the Century." In 1924, they kidnapped and murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks, a neighbor and distant relative of Leopold.

Richard Loeb:

  • Birth: Richard Loeb was born on June 11, 1905, in Chicago, Illinois.
  • Family and Background: Loeb came from a wealthy Jewish family. His father, Albert Henry Loeb, was a senior executive at Sears, Roebuck and Company.
  • Education and Intelligence: Like Leopold, Loeb was highly intelligent. He was known for his rebellious nature and a fascination with crime.
  • Relationship with Leopold: Loeb's friendship with Leopold was intense and complicated. Some speculate that Loeb's influence played a role in shaping the criminal aspects of their relationship.
  • Crime: The crime committed by Leopold and Loeb involved the kidnapping and murder of Bobby Franks in May 1924. The motive behind the crime was rooted in a belief in their own intellectual superiority and a desire to commit the "perfect crime."

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