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Up To Date

Truman Capote's Take On True Crime

Truman Capote's book, "In Cold Blood" showcased a quadruple murder case in southwestern Kansas, becoming one of the most famous true crime books ever.

On Monday's Up to Date, we'll talk with University of Kansas professor Dr. Dave Tell about how Capote forged an understanding with the convicted killers while researching the book and how that affected his portrayal of the infamous crime.

We'll also discuss why Capote decided to write about the murders and his research process.

Dr. Dave Tell's work focuses on the intersections of rhetorical theory and political culture. He teaches undergraduate courses in the history and theory of rhetoric and in American public discourse. At the graduate level, he offers courses in contemporary theory. His work has been published in a number of national journals. His dissertation on the history of public confession won two national awards, including the National Communication Association's prestigious Gerald R. Miller Doctoral Dissertation Award.

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When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.