The Executioner's Song

Norman Mailer

85 pages 2-hour read

Norman Mailer

The Executioner's Song

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1979

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Book Brief

Norman Mailer

The Executioner's Song

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1979
Book Details
Pages

1056

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
American Literature

Journalism
Setting

Utah • 1970s

Theme
Death

Community

Good & Evil
Topic
Crime & Law
Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

960L

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Super Short Summary

The Executioner's Song by Norman Mailer narrates the real-life story of Gary Gilmore, who, following his release from prison in 1976, murdered a gas station attendant and a motel manager, leading to his conviction and becoming the first person executed in the United States after the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty. The book is based on extensive interviews and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1980.

Dark

Gritty

Mysterious

Unnerving

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

23,991 ratings

76%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Norman Mailer's The Executioner's Song is often praised for its intricate and meticulous portrayal of true crime, offering a haunting and thought-provoking narrative. Critics laud its journalistic rigor and the depth of its character studies. However, some find its length daunting and argue that the extensive detail can slow the pacing. Overall, it's considered a compelling yet demanding read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Executioner's Song?

A reader who enjoys The Executioner's Song by Norman Mailer likely has a keen interest in true crime, legal drama, and the complexities of the human psyche. Fans of Truman Capote's In Cold Blood and Ann Rule's The Stranger Beside Me would appreciate Mailer's detailed narrative and exploration of real-life events.

4.1

23,991 ratings

76%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Key Figures

A complex figure with a history of violent crime, whose release from prison brings him back into contact with family and leads to destructive relationships, highlighting his intense yet volatile nature.

A young woman with a traumatic past, marked by instability and intense emotional connections, whose relationship with Gary forms an important yet tumultuous aspect of her life.

A media professional who navigates the complexities of storytelling and public perception, balancing commercial motivations with moments of empathy and self-awareness.

Gary's cousin, who holds nostalgic memories and a deep sense of responsibility toward him, striving to believe in his potential for change despite his actions.

Nicole's sister, who shares a similar traumatic background, providing a contrasting perspective on Gary through her own experiences with him and the lasting impact they have.

A hardworking, morally upright man who supports Gary despite personal struggles, embodying selflessness and enduring optimism amidst adversity.

Book Details
Pages

1056

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
American Literature

Journalism
Setting

Utah • 1970s

Theme
Death

Community

Good & Evil
Topic
Crime & Law
Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

960L

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