As we wrap up this discussion, is there anything that you'd like to comment about?

This was a very big book with a lot of possible topics, but I think, judging by what you all told me that your main interests were in Dillinger, so that's where I tried to keep us focused.

Thanks to you all for an interesting discussion and many thanks to Bryan Burrough for being so accessable and for writing a book that truly came from his heart!

I'm glad I read the book as I didn't know much of the history of Dillinger and the other public enemies. The book was written in a format that was easy to read, even though loaded with info., and gave a real insight into the various people.

, and it will be fun to see how it all comes together. BBurrough really did his homework and debunked some of the myths I had always believed, i.e. Bonnie/Clyde. It did help to put a "human" face on these people while not romanticizing them. Another great choice of film role by Johnny and I hope 2009 gets here real soon. I still wonder if they won't push to get it released this year if it seems like it may be in contention for awards.

-Donna

I enjoyed the book and as Donna said it was an easy read and held my interest. I plan on reading more about Purvis and Hoover. I enjoyed reading all the posts during the discussion and appreciate Karen for providing the Q/A with Mr. Burrough. I look forward to the release of the film and especially to see how "Hollywood" changes the facts presented by Mr. Burrough. I am still very curious why Dillinger did not leave the states? :) Anne r

I'll have to try to find it in the book, but didn't it say that Dillinger was planning on going to Mexico, but was gunned down before he could?

-Donna

Well I am still not through with the book, (p. 300+) but I enjoyed the discussions anyway. It is a great read and when I do get the chance to read I have a very hard time putting it down. I agree that the debunking of many of the myths was eye opening and actually the truth was more interesting.

Many thanks for all the thought provoking questions and answers.

Deppends

I've been too immersed in other parts of my life to be an active participant with this discussion...however, the fabulous interview with Mr. Burrough had added to my thorough enjoyment of his book...I'm about half way. As I read, I keep thinking... "will this be in the film?" "whoa, that's going to be an intense scene..!" etc. So, like all of you, I look forward to seeing how Johnny, et al, will pull this off...in style no doubt! Nemosfriend

Thanks everyone for such nice words! I know we all don't post, but I can see by the hits that people are reading what we say. As always, this discussion is not over and can be added to at any time! woohoo

And I'm glad to know that you all are still reading and still looking through Bryan's wonderful book! We'll have to do a comparison once the film has opened!

Nemo I'm with you. I keep trying to decide which parts will be in the film and how to string them together. There is so much meat to this book it would challenging to decide what to film. Maybe it should have been a three picture deal like POTC. ;)

Deppends

I have to admit to haven't read all the discussions as I am still reading the book. And absolutely loving it!! The hardest part is putting it down. Have even started to bring it into work in case I can slip in a couple of pages reading ;) Once Im finished I cant wait to get started reading everyones thoughts and comments on it.

I just got done with reading the part where Dillinger gets killed. They are trying to get the girls to confess about everything. I'm wondering if they spent time in jail or do they get away. I have very much enjoyed reading this book. Steven, my 17 year old wants to read it, but I know he won't find the time. I am so looking forward to see this movie. Has everyone seen the Youtube video on the crime scene of B&C? How kind of disturbing, don't you think?

I finished the book last night about midnight!! I thought I might not be interested after Dillinger was killed but No Way. I tore right on through to the endnotes. I was actually sorry to run out of book.

Deppends

"Public Enemies" is a well written, well planned and thought out book. There's tons to learn and a lot to absorb, but all things considered? I think it's worth the read.

Yes, we have the link for the B&C death scene here on jdr with very serious disclaimers about the actual scene. A bit macabre and haunting.

Can someone please tell me where I can find this quote? Thank you.

Christine, it's not a quote, this click will take you to a thread in this forum that has links to the actual video of the Bonnie and Clyde death scene. There's a warning there about the fact that the video clip contains gruesome images of B & C immediately after they were shot and are still in the car, dead. There are also other clips there that show other gangsters after their death. Just a warning....it's chilling to see.

Karen,

Thank you for directing me and for the warning. I'm not sure how the word "quote" got in there. :unsure:

I bow down to the person(s) who did the screen adaptation. :bow

I had alot of fun reading about the cities in Ohio that were affected by the public enemies. Much to my surprise, Sandusky (my hometown) was mentioned in the epilogue on page 549. It wasn't much, but it was fun to read. Also, Port Clinton (page 526 where a pilot was found to fly out Karpis after his train robbing idea) is where my good friend lives. Neat little bits of trivia.

Thank you Mr. Burrough for making this book fun to read. I'm looking forward to the movie.