Nonfiction books about historical events and true crime can be incredibly gripping, providing a deep dive into real-life stories that are often stranger than fiction. Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann is one such book that meticulously details the Osage murders and the birth of the FBI. If you’re fascinated by this genre, here’s a list of 20 similar books that will captivate and educate you.
Books Similar to Nonfiction Killers of the Flower Moon
1. The Devil in the White City
Erik Larson’s The Devil in the White City intertwines the true stories of the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago and the horrifying murders committed by H.H. Holmes, America’s first known serial killer. This book is a masterful blend of history and true crime, making it a must-read for fans of Killers of the Flower Moon.
2. In Cold Blood
Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood is a groundbreaking work that delves into the brutal murder of the Clutter family in Kansas. Through meticulous research and compelling narrative, Capote created a new genre of nonfiction, making this book a classic in true crime literature.
3. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
John Berendt’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil explores the eccentric characters and mysterious murder trial in Savannah, Georgia. The book’s rich storytelling and atmospheric setting make it a fascinating read that blurs the line between reality and fiction.
4. The Ghosts of Eden Park
Karen Abbott’s The Ghosts of Eden Park tells the story of bootlegger George Remus and the sensational events that followed his rise and fall. Abbott’s vivid writing and thorough research bring the Prohibition era to life, making this a compelling read.
5. The Lost City of Z
David Grann’s The Lost City of Z chronicles the mysterious disappearance of British explorer Percy Fawcett in the Amazon. This book combines adventure, history, and true crime, providing a thrilling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
6. Bad Blood
John Carreyrou’s Bad Blood exposes the shocking fraud behind the biotech company Theranos and its founder, Elizabeth Holmes. This book is a riveting account of corporate deception and journalistic persistence, making it a must-read for anyone interested in modern scandals.
7. The Man from the Train
Bill James and Rachel McCarthy James’s The Man from the Train investigates a series of gruesome murders in the early 20th century. Through meticulous research, the authors identify a likely suspect, offering a fresh perspective on these chilling crimes.
8. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark
Michelle McNamara’s I’ll Be Gone in the Dark is a gripping investigation into the Golden State Killer. McNamara’s passionate pursuit of the truth and her compelling writing make this book a standout in the true crime genre.
9. The Stranger Beside Me
Ann Rule’s The Stranger Beside Me offers a unique perspective on Ted Bundy, as Rule knew him personally before discovering his horrific crimes. This book provides an intimate look at one of America’s most infamous serial killers.
10. Helter Skelter
Vincent Bugliosi’s Helter Skelter details the Manson Family murders and the ensuing trial. As the prosecutor in the case, Bugliosi provides an insider’s view, making this book a definitive account of one of the most notorious crimes in American history.
11. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Rebecca Skloot’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks explores the life of a woman whose cells were used without her knowledge to make significant scientific advancements. This book raises important ethical questions while telling a deeply human story.
12. Empire of Pain
Patrick Radden Keefe’s Empire of Pain investigates the Sackler family’s role in the opioid crisis. This meticulously researched book provides a damning portrait of greed and corruption, making it essential reading for understanding this ongoing epidemic.
13. Say Nothing
Patrick Radden Keefe’s Say Nothing delves into the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the disappearance of Jean McConville. Through gripping narrative and thorough research, Keefe reveals the complexities of this conflict and its lasting impact.
14. The Radium Girls
Kate Moore’s The Radium Girls tells the harrowing story of young women who suffered from radium poisoning while working in watch factories. This book is a powerful account of their fight for justice and the impact of industrial negligence.
15. American Fire
Monica Hesse’s American Fire investigates a string of arson cases in rural Virginia. Through compelling storytelling, Hesse explores the motivations behind the crimes and the community affected by them, making this a fascinating read.
16. The Feather Thief
Kirk Wallace Johnson’s The Feather Thief recounts the bizarre theft of rare bird specimens from a British museum. This book combines elements of true crime and natural history, resulting in a unique and engaging narrative.
17. The Wright Brothers
David McCullough’s The Wright Brothers chronicles the lives and achievements of the famous aviation pioneers. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, McCullough brings to life the challenges and triumphs of the Wright brothers.
18. Lost Girls
Robert Kolker’s Lost Girls investigates the unsolved murders of several women in Long Island. This book provides a compassionate look at the victims and their families, while also critiquing the societal issues that allowed these crimes to go unnoticed.
19. The Five
Hallie Rubenhold’s The Five reexamines the lives of the women murdered by Jack the Ripper. By focusing on the victims rather than the killer, Rubenhold provides a fresh and empathetic perspective on these infamous crimes.
20. The Poisoner’s Handbook
Deborah Blum’s The Poisoner’s Handbook explores the development of forensic science in early 20th century New York. Through fascinating case studies, Blum highlights the pioneers who transformed criminal investigations and brought murderers to justice.