Capitol Reads

August's Capitol Read was The Night of the Hunter by Davis Grubb

Inspired by serial killer Harry Powers, "The Bluebeard of Quiet Dell," who was hung in 1932 for his murders of two widows and three children. This best-selling novel, first published in 1953 to wide acclaim by author Grubb, (who like Powers lived in Clarksburg, West Virginia), served as the basis for Charles Laughton's noir classic .

Renamed "Harry Powell," the lead character in this book, with LOVE and HATE tattooed on his fingers, is remembered as one of the creepiest men in book and cinema history.


The Capitol Reads book discussion group not only talked about Grubbs' classic novel but also had an opportunity to view the classic film on the big screen at the Normal L. Fagan Theater at the Culture Center.

More information about Capitol Reads selections can be found on the WVLC website.