The Alienist and The Angel of Darkness

The Alienist & The Angel of Darkness by Caleb Carr

Because The Alienist and it’s sequel, The Angel of Darkness, is a unique take on a common idea:

Because it’s like a procedural show, only set in the turn of the century
Because it’s a criminal investigation in the days before forensics was accepted
Because it focuses on the psychology of the criminal intent

Because it gently reminds the reader how different life was back then, what with the NYPD bursting with corruption, juries consisting only of white males, and the censoring of newspapers to protect the public’s sensibilities.

Peter Pan

In case this story and my booklist didn’t tip you off, I’m a bit fascinated by Peter Pan.

Because of the infinite possibilities of Neverland (I like real food as much as the next person, but nothing beats the wide range of imaginary food).

Because the story is rife with psychological nuances and brilliant insights.

Because who doesn’t want Peter Pan to appear at her bedroom window to fly her (fly!) to Neverland?

Because as fantastical as the world of Peter Pan is, there are pearls of truth strung throughout.