This was a great read – full of surprises. In his interviews with Grobel, Capote shares so much about his life. Through his comments–laced with humor and sadness–on his contemporaries and their work, friendships, writing, and society, his sharp wit, character, and sensitivity are revealed.

Grobel began with the intention of doing one interview with Capote, but was so intrigued he continued to do a series of interviews and maintained a friendship with him until Capote’s death in 1984. As you read, you can see why Grobel couldn’t resist the conversations. Capote’s responses are direct and raw. He talks about his rivalry with Norman Mailer, and offers straightforward, sometimes harsh, criticism of fellow writers like Jack Kerouac, William Faulkner, and Ken Kesey. He often reflects on his own writing as well and offers insights into the art of writing. A word of warning–you might not be able to put this one down. I was captivated by it.