Truman Capote's Southern Years: Stories from a Monroeville Cousin

Told from the recollections of family and friends of Capote, Southern Years captures Truman's childhood years and gives a brief glance at his roots and how he came to be who he was as an adult. We also get an interesting glimpse into Truman's friendship with "To Kill a Mockingbird" author Harper Lee, who was a childhood and lifelong friend.

Most of the book is told from the perspective of Jennings Faulk, Truman Capote's cousin. Long summer days were spent as curious children growing up in Monroeville. Page after page detail the antics and schemes these young ones got into and you can see how many of the children's real life experiences were translated to the pages of both Capote and Harper Lee's novels.

We also get a sad peek into some of the turmoil that Capote faced because of his troubled family life. Knowing his history will give you a better appreciation for his writing and will entertain you at the same time. This is an easy, light read and in many ways will bring you back to your own childhood days of playing outside in the summer time.