"Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" - Summary

Savannah is presented as a city steeped in tradition, where graceful manners and genteel appearances often mask a darker underbelly. Berendt skillfully peels back these layers, exposing the hypocrisy and secrets lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic world. The book explores how the past continues to shape the present, influencing social dynamics and perpetuating a culture of silence and denial.

Savannah is populated by a cast of unforgettable characters, each more peculiar and fascinating than the last. From the flamboyant Lady Chablis, a black drag queen with a sharp wit, to the enigmatic Joe Odom, a piano-playing con man with a talent for storytelling, these individuals embody the city's unique spirit. Berendt celebrates their individuality, suggesting that it's often the outliers who best reveal the true heart of a place.

Berendt masterfully blends reportage with storytelling, blurring the line between reality and fabrication. He becomes a part of the narrative, his own experiences and observations woven into the fabric of Savannah's social tapestry. This approach raises questions about objectivity and truth, leaving the reader to ponder the subjectivity of perception and the power of narrative to shape our understanding of events.