It is often the case that one can learn more about history from a good, well written novel[s] or personal account than from a textbook. – Early last year I began an odyssey which is still going on. I began reading the “Lanny Budd” novels by Upton Sinclair. They follow Lanny from 1913, when he is 13, until 1948. Unlike some historical novels Lanny doesn’t just observe history, he participates and makes, or appears to make, history. – The first book was published in 1940 and the last one in 1953. – I can only say, if you haven’t tracked then down, you are missing out on a fabulous read. – Sinclair was an out and out genius. – Currently I’m reading the books he mentioned as references. Unfortunately, these books only cover the period from about the beginning of WWII. I would love to learn what books he used for the earlier books in the series. – Go find these books and read them!
December 12, 2009 at 4:58 am |
Having studied the period and events in question all my life, and having read a lot of source material, I come away amazed at the level of knowledge that Sinclair reveals in his Lanny Budd novels. Sinclair betrays a highly detailed knowledge of the people, events and culture involved in those momentous events. What others may call a series of novels, I tend to see as an encyclopedia of WW2 and the countries that had a role in it.
I have never seen a novelist so well informed, and who can keep sharing so much insight over 7000 pages of text. For those who are a little spotty on history, as a great many Americans are, a read of these novels would help make up for all the history books they never read, or history class lectures they didn’t pay attention to. Read these novels, and you will come away with a profound knowledge of the events of that time. You will also be very entertained!
December 12, 2009 at 3:38 pm |
I do like history, including alternate history from such writers as Harry Turtledove & Eric Flint.
In addition to the marvelous story I found his references most fascinating. He finally in the last 5 books or so gives a list of references. I’ve obtained and read most of them.
I wish the books weren’t so hard to find.