Book Review: For the Thrill of It: Leopold, Loeb and the Murder that Shocked Chicago
Simon Baatz has written a thorough, workmanlike account of the notorious thrill-killing that inspired the films Compulsion and Rope. Baatz's recounting of the murder is chilling, and his explanation of the legal strategy behind the defense and the prosecution is fascinating. Conventional wisdom has it that Clarence Darrow's brilliant summation is what saved the boys from the gallows, but Baatz notes that the judge in the case specifically disregarded Darrow's arguments and imposed a life sentence on other grounds. Actually, Baatz seems to be faintly contemptuous of Darrow's defense. I would have liked to hear a bit more of Darrow's own words so I could decide for myself.
