Author – Michael Crichton
A review of The Great
Train Robbery
I didn’t know what to expect when I learned that Crichton
wrote a book that appeared to be a western.
If you read the title, see the old style train cover art and his name
dominating the rest of the front what else could it be? I’m accustomed to his science driven stories,
mostly, and was curious about a setting such as 1854 for him. I found out later it was based on true events
which finally pushed me to read it. It’s
a great book.
I’ll
point a few things out; if you like learning about the 1800’s in any fashion
then this book will give you enough taste to satisfy. If you’re interested in London during that
time even better. I’ve come to enjoy
reading books from that time as well as learning how life was back then. There is something about no cellular phones,
internet, automobiles or any other technological marvel in this day and age
that is fun to read about. I grew up in
the era when computers reached up and grabbed us all then drew us close to its
bosom so now I’m curious as to how it was prior. Going back to the 1800’s will quench that
desire. I’m no fanatic of years long ago
but Crichton sets the stage for that era well.
A slick
man with a plan and a few accomplices go to unimaginable lengths to rob a
train. I can say I wasn’t interest in
the few beginning pages when I discovered it was in London. I’m American why should I want to read how
these great Englishman pulled a heist. I
want a shootout old west adventure right?
It didn’t take long for Crichton to knock that notion aside and get me
hooked anyway. The story of the robbery
is mixed in beautifully with the history of times back then. Following the main character around, who is always
so smooth, is a joy to read. The fact
that London was young in its law enforcement at the time makes the chance of
success even greater for the alleged criminals.
This really is one train ride you better not miss.
This is
a simple read and can be enjoyed by any who enjoy a clever heist. Remember its 1854 so quirky gadgets and
computer passwords to a vault don’t exist so put our current era on the shelf
when you grab this book from it. If you
set your mind to a time in the distant past you’ll have a pleasant memory to
recall upon later in life. All aboard
for thievery at its finest! These train
puns are so addicting.
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