Work
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is a masterful blend of true crime, Southern Gothic charm, and cultural exploration set in Savannah, Georgia in the 1980s. The book delves into the city's eccentric characters, from socialites and drag queens to voodoo practitioners, offering a vivid portrayal of the city’s unique social fabric. At its heart lies the gripping true story of a sensational murder trial involving wealthy antiques dealer Jim Williams and his shooting of a young assistant and sometime lover, Danny Hansford. Berendt’s atmospheric storytelling brings to life the haunting beauty and secrets of Savannah, weaving mystery with humor and intrigue.
The City of Falling Angels
The City of Falling Angels is a richly detailed narrative exploring Venice, Italy, in the aftermath of the devastating 1996 fire that destroyed the historic La Fenice opera house. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Berendt delves into the mystery surrounding the fire and the intricate lives of the city’s residents, including aristocrats, artists, shopkeepers and others. The book reveals Venice’s unique blend of history, intrigue, and decadence, painting a portrait of a city balancing tradition with modernity. As he uncovers secrets and scandals, Berendt captures the essence of Venice’s charm and resilience, making the city itself a central character. This compelling work is both a love letter to Venice and a fascinating exploration of its complexities.
Class Act: A Gentleman's Guide to Dressing Well
For more than a decade, John Berendt wrote a series of smart, sophisticated columns for Esquire on matters of manners and men's clothing. Class Act brings together over fifty of these updated and revised pieces, as well as two new additions, each focusing on an item of iconic men’s fashion. Whether interviewing the Duchess of Argyll about her family's connection to a certain pair of socks, revealing the identity of the mild-mannered gentleman who invented the most macho item in the male wardrobe (the motorcycle jacket), or laying bare the bloody Crimean war origin of the cardigan sweater, Berendt informs and entertains in equal measure.
My Baby Blue Jays
A heartwarming story about two blue jays making a nest and raising chicks on the balcony outside the author’s office in his townhouse on New York’s Upper West Side. Berendt observed the blue jays from when they first began building their nest, capturing their journey from helpless fledglings to independent young birds, showcasing their intelligence and playful nature. The book blends natural history with a personal narrative, offering insight into the lives of these vibrant creatures. It celebrates the beauty of wildlife and the joy of connecting with nature in everyday life.