The Executioner's Song Audiobook By Norman Mailer cover art

The Executioner's Song

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The Executioner's Song

By: Norman Mailer
Narrated by: Maxwell Hamilton
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In this Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, a convicted killer becomes the first prisoner to be executed in the United States.

The Executioner's Song follows the true story of cold-blooded murderer Gary Gilmore, who, after being tried and convicted, insisted on being executed for his crimes. To do so, he fought a system intent on keeping him alive long after it sentenced him to death.

Norman Mailer tells Gilmore's story with impressive authority and compassion. The Executioner's Song is a trip down the wrong side of the tracks, right into the heart of American loneliness and violence–it is impossible to put down and difficult to forget.

Accolades & Awards

Pulitzer Prize
1980
20th Century Historical Fiction Jewish Heritage Pulitzer Prize True Crime Biographies & Memoirs Crime Suspense Funny Witty Biographical Fiction Crime Fiction Literary Fiction Fiction Genre Fiction
Compelling True Crime • Thorough Research • Excellent Character Voicing • Gripping Storytelling • Insightful Portrayal

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I still have to give this five stars despite the imperfect narration. This outstanding book is more than worth ones time and a credit. It may not be for everyone. It touches real life like no other story.The unconditional love of Gary's family is unbelievable. The narrator doesn't convey th e charm and charisma Gilmore must of had, but there aren't many Tommy Lee Jones out there. I don't go along wit the system not giving Gary a chance.He never gave himself a chance. His alcoholism played a part in him not getting away with things and not working well for long when give the opportunity. I'm blown away by Nicoles honesty. Besides her promiscuity , She comes across as not too bright and a bit lazy.Of course these are a result of sexual abuse and depression. I found myself really liking her and caring about her. All the other characters are real people I became attached. I'm not sure if this this is an anti death penalty book.I don't think it's meant to be. If so it didn't work with me. I think the death penalty is unfairly and over used. However Gary Gilmore had it coming. Also there are things worse than death.

Still 5 Stars

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query; corollary; piqued

And I'm only halfway through. But it's too good a story to pass up. And I have a long drive ahead of me.

uneducated narrator; shoddy editing.

Maxwell Hamilton mispronounces multiple words

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Loved it. I had to rewind a few times but it was worth it.

Multiple stories of people's dynamic views.

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It pains me greatly to hear Geraldo Rivera butchered over and over and over.

Great book, awful reading

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I hesitated getting this because some reviewers were so negative about the reader. I think he does an amazing job. Three cheers for Maxwell Hamilton. For me, he's absolutely convincing as the voice of Gary Gilmore.

Reader is great

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