The Swans of Fifth Avenue

This is the story of writer Truman Capote and his intense,

complicated friendship with the women he dubbed The Swans during the 1950’s. Truman watched these women with awe and as his writing career escalated he slowly immersed himself deeply into the lives of Babe Paley, C.Z. Guest and Gloria Guiness, to name a few. Truman, a talented, flamboyant character was invited to stay on their yachts, visit their homes and get invited to the most important parties. Escaping from the south and a troubled childhood, Truman was desperate for things that were beautiful, dying to be loved. He became incredibly close to Babe Paley and her CBS Executive husband, Bill. Truman discovered their deepest darkest secrets and tucked them away in his little notebook. After a few years of clawing his way to the top and writing the biggest novel of his life (In Cold Blood) Truman experiences complete and utter self- destruction. This period is insanely glamorous and the riches and lives these women lead is almost unbelievable. Fabulous author Melanie Benjamin (The Aviator’s Wife -#unputdownable) has once again brought us back in time through her detailed, well researched story of these outrageous characters who were the IT girls of their time. Highly recommend BUT only if this period interests you. The story is easy to read but the shallow women and unstable Capote left me feeling empty and well, I was glad it ended swiftly.