American Confidential: Uncovering the Bizarre Story of Lee Harvey Oswald and his Mother

by Deanne Stillman

"In dazzling, evocative prose, Stillman effectively employs the tools of cultural criticism to shed light on the forces that might have left Marguerite dangerously disillusioned with the American dream." - Jonathan Darman, Air Mail

"Deanne Stillman's American Confidential takes the familiar and makes it new - makes it thrilling. You won't believe this story; it resonates with deep American echoes." - Darin Strauss, author of Chang & Eng

On the 60th anniversary of the JFK assassination, a critically acclaimed writer presents an astonishing new account of one of the 20th century's most notorious assassins, Lee Harvey Oswald—and the mother who raised him . . .

Was Lee Harvey Oswald—as he himself claimed—a patsy? A hired gunman? In this startling account, Deanne Stillman suggests that there was indeed a conspiracy behind the assassination of John F. Kennedy—that of Oswald and his mother, Marguerite, who were locked in a desperate pursuit of fame and recognition. It was a struggle that would erupt on November 22, 1963, with Kennedy’s murder—after which the assassin joined the roster of infamous immortals, while his mother spent the rest of her life seeking the media limelight. 
 
American Confidential is a mother-son noir tale that plays out across the Wild West of mid-twentieth century America, delving into Oswald’s nomadic boyhood, and the world of his restless and disillusioned mother, who passed along a legacy of class resentment and a clamorous need to matter. 
 
In this new and surprising investigation into the short, troubled life of the ordinary man who would take down an American king, Deanne Stillman also presents a fascinating portrait of Oswald as a predecessor of the many violent young men and boys of America today, who take selfies with their rifles, and have come to define a new era of brutality.

Following in the tradition of Joan Didion and Charles Bowden, and continuing her celebrated exploration of America’s shadowlands, Stillman recounts a haunting tale of the promise and failure of the American dream. It held Oswald in its grip until the very end. “Some day,” he once told his wife, “I’d like to have a son. Maybe he’ll grow up to be president.”

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Politics, True Crime

255 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 14, 2023

About the author

Deanne Stillman is a widely published, critically acclaimed writer. Her books of narrative nonfiction are place-based stories of war and peace in the modern and historical West.

Reviews

[dakotadief · Rating 3 out of 5]

i think we could find a way to blame boy moms for everything that has ever happened

[Hilda Hansen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was a disappointment, taking 226 pages to say what could have been said in 20, and at t h e same time managing only a superficial treatment of Oswald and his mother. It is confusing at times, as the author is not consistent with the use of names. Sometimes, when she uses the name Oswald, the reader is lost, not knowing whether she is talking about Lee, his father, or one of his two brothers. In other instances, she uses first names only, leaving the reader to figure out which person with that name she is writing about. In addition, there are obvious factual errors that anyone who has a reasonable knowledge of the JFK assassination would recognize. I would not read another book by this author.

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read a LOT of JFK books, including assassination ones. This one definitely has some new information to me and is unique in focusing on Oswald and his relationship with his mother, who has always seemed like a real character. Not in a good way! My only complaint is that we are asked to imagine too often and there's a plethora of rhetorical questions. This makes the book feel less like history and more like a mental exploration. That said, I did enjoy it and the details I'd never heard before.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.

[False · Rating 3 out of 5]

The mother from hell, and then some. The information about his mother is pretty well known, by this date, but may be new to people not familiar with the Oswald history. A full blown narcissist unlikable to most who made her acquaintance. Once Lee was killed everything became about money with her, as it always had been. The author makes that clear that money was a primary motivator in her personality, so much so, that the poverty and rejection she dealt out to her sons was the tip of the iceberg: she sold her interviews, wrote a pamphlet, then eventually a book. She also sold some of Lee’s personal items for the highest amounts possible. She sought out recognition, for herself and for Lee, claiming he was a hero. She obsessed over the care of his grave, where she ultimately resided. Ironically, and the author doesn't explore this, John Kennedy also had a narcissistic mother, so self-absorbed she left her sick little boy behind while she went to Paris to purchase the latest fashions. On her departure, and it's been repeated, often, Kennedy stood in the hall while his mother left saying to her, "You are a rotten mother." Later, Jacqueline Kennedy said her heart broke, knowing what her husband endured with his mother. Now there's another story in itself. One living in abject poverty, the other in cushioned wealth.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very intrigued by the subject matter in this book and was eager to pick up a copy shortly after it released. It was fairly easy to get into and painted a very interesting picture of Oswald and his upbringing. Reading his backstory gave me more clarity on who he was and what he went through growing up that may have helped steer him in the direction to go down in history as an assassin. By the end of the book, I found the title and synopsis to be a bit deceiving. To me, this was more a bio of his life rather than an intensive deep-dive into his relationship with his mother. He had brothers who went through much of the same experiences, and they lived normal, productive lives. It was an interesting book, but do not expect to have an epiphany while reading it.

[Joseph Hamilton]

When I saw this book at the library yesterday I knew I should take a pass but its limited scope drew me back. As I checked it out I thought ruefully that I was still down the assassination rabbit hole. Once I started reading though I got no further than the introduction when I came across these hoary old chestnuts: Writing the book had taken the author “right into the dark heart of the American dream” and the assassination was “the act from which the country has yet to recover.” And that’s as far as I got.

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nothing new. Too much speculation.

[Abigail · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book talked about what the book was going to talk about for the first two thirds. It never actually got anywhere.

[J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is an interesting look at how parents, Oswald's mother in this story, may or may not have influence someone to commit violence.

[Jillian · Rating 1 out of 5]

In desperate need of an editor. Didn’t need 238 pages of droning on when this could’ve been a short magazine article instead.

[Todd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fathers take note: No child left behind

[Raven · Rating 2 out of 5]

strange and speculative

[Alexander Socinski · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too much conjecture to be a reliable source! Which is a bummer because it’s an interesting subject. Lot of tangents too. Book didn’t really have a clear direction

[Kenny Schwarz · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of the information that would have otherwise fallen through the cracks on most references of Oswald. Nonetheless, none of this lesser known information was particularly interesting. Somewhat dry, and a solid three star rating.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher Melville House Publishing for an advanced copy of this look at the lives of one of the most famous assassins in history and his mother who wanted so much for herself and for her son, Lee.

My parents were not big on discipline when my brother and I were young. My father always seemed at a loss when his children did something dumb or wrong, something that other children would do, not his. My mother while not the discipline type had other ways of showing her displeasure. A look, a comment, even weeks later a oh remember don't do that again. I joked after my father died that I knew the worse thing my father could ever do to us would be to kill us, I had no idea what my mother would do, and never wanted to find out. That is Mom's power. And this power can be used for good and for bad. A mother who uses this power when thinking only of herself, sending her children to orphanages or family, not taking responsibility for things. Wanting not only the best things, but whatever those lucky people across the way had. That can have an effect on children. Some it could drive away. Some could become the same, never happy with life. And some it can drive to have all those things and more, and get it by any way possible. Even killing a president. American Confidential: Uncovering the Bizarre Story of Lee Harvey Oswald and his Mother by Deanne Stillman looks at the relationship that Marguerite Oswald had with her son Lee Harvey Oswald, the drive for both to be acknowledged as wonderful people, and the lives ruined by both in different ways.

Lee Harvey Oswald was born in Louisiana, a place that even the native people say can confuse a soul, surrounded by water, and the legacy of the city's history. Lee's mother Marguerite Frances Oswald was a woman who had known hardship and misery. Leaving school before graduating to work at a law firm, marrying and divorcing after the birth of her first child. Marguerite's second husband died before Lee was born, mowing the lawn, as the author says a unique American death. Lee grew up without much control, with behavior problems that might have been mental, as well as Marguerite's style of parenting. Marguerite was unhappy in that no one knew how special she was. That her children were special, and that everyone was against her, and she could never be on that pedestal she so richly deserved. Placing her children first with family than with state services, Marguerite wandered to Dallas, with hopes that a third husband would change things. It did not. Traveling to New York Lee threatend his sister-in-law, and was found to be truant. Help was offered, but Lee was taken away to Texas again, were things really began to fall apart. Leaving school for the second time Lee joined the Marines, and his life changed forever.

This is a very unique book in assassination lore, in that the author has no agenda to either explain why Lee Harvey Oswald killed President Kennedy, but more of an examination of the life and influence that Marguerite Oswald had, and might have shaped him. However this is not a cherchez la femme book. What Stillman has done is look at both of this historical characters and tried to place them in an America that many who look back at that good ole days never like to discuss. That side of America the working poor, the counting on families to help, and even Government with schools and orphanages. And nothing ever being enough, because America is for winners and not losers. Stillman looks at America at the time, the places the Oswalds found themselves, and compares what is going on with the Oswalds, and mostly the Oswalds are found lacking. Not an indictment, but a truth. One that Marguerite used after the death of her son to attack everyone that ever did her wrong, talking to anyone and everyone who would listen. America is a place where you don't exist unless one's name is in lights. Marguerite wanted her name seen from Pluto.

A really interesting and well-written book, assassination writing that pays little attention to the assassination itself, concentrating on the human factor. Which is something in the world of Oswald clones, Mexico trips, Alek Hidell, defections, gets looked over. The relationship between a boy and his mom. Even without all the bells and whistles of the names involved Oswald, Kennedy, this is a really interesting story that is an American story, and one that seems as real today as it did back then.

[Amelia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really struggled with this book. I typically am a memoir/biography/autobiography junkie but to me this author really overdoes the speculation on details unknown. I wasn't a fan of the at times odd references to Broadway plays and musicals scattered throughout the story. This is a very interesting topic, and typically would be engaging to me, but this was difficult to finish and not one I would recommend to others. The actual details and facts are far more interesting than the odd assumptions and speculation as to the upbringing and circumstances of Lee Harvey Oswald.

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"American Confidential: Uncovering the Bizarre Story of Lee Harvey Oswald and his Mother" by Deanne Stillman is an intriguing exploration of the complex and lesser-known aspects of the life of Lee Harvey Oswald and his relationship with his mother. The book offers a unique perspective on a historical figure and an event that has captivated the public's imagination for decades.

One commendable aspect of the book is Stillman's commitment to delving into the more obscure facets of Lee Harvey Oswald's life. The author goes beyond the well-known details of the Kennedy assassination, shedding light on the personal and familial elements that shaped Oswald's trajectory. Stillman's meticulous research and attention to detail contribute to the book's depth, providing readers with a fresh perspective on this historical figure.

The narrative unfolds in a well-structured manner, guiding readers through the intertwined lives of Oswald and his mother. Stillman's storytelling captures the complexity of their relationship, offering insights into the dynamics that influenced Oswald's actions. The book's approachability and engaging writing style make it accessible to both history enthusiasts and general readers.

However, some readers may find the book lacking in a broader historical context or analysis of the events surrounding Lee Harvey Oswald. While the focus on Oswald and his mother is intriguing, a more expansive examination of the socio-political climate and the aftermath of the Kennedy assassination could enhance the book's overall impact.

In conclusion, "American Confidential" provides a compelling and unique perspective on Lee Harvey Oswald and his mother, offering a deeper understanding of the person behind the historical figure. Deanne Stillman's research and storytelling make the book a valuable contribution to the exploration of this complex narrative. While a broader historical context could enrich the reading experience, the book remains an engaging exploration of the lesser-known aspects of a pivotal moment in history.

[Ionia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised to come across a well-researched book on Lee Harvey Oswald that stands apart from the usual barrage of conspiracy-laden works. Deanne Stillman's approach is refreshingly thoughtful, offering a comprehensive exploration of Oswald's life without delving into the realm of conspiracy theories. The level of research invested in this book is commendable, and I found the author's adeptness at engaging the reader's attention to be particularly praiseworthy.

In portraying the eccentric and peculiar codependency shared between Oswald and his mother, Marguerite, Deanne Stillman has adeptly captured a relationship that can only be described as one-of-a-kind. This distinctive bond, spanning from Oswald's early years to adulthood, is presented with fascinating insights that make for an absorbing read. However, amid the engaging narrative, I did find myself slightly unsettled by the author's tendency to indulge in conjecture on various subjects. In a non-fiction work, conjecture seems out of place, as it veers away from the pursuit of factual accuracy. The appeal of historical accounts lies in their grounding in truth, rather than speculation and supposition.

Nevertheless, the book is undeniably well-crafted, effortlessly compelling the reader to turn each page in anticipation. The author's skill in weaving a narrative is evident throughout the book, ensuring a consistently engaging experience.

In summation, this book is a solid contribution to the literature surrounding the JFK assassination and the enigmatic figure of Lee Harvey Oswald. I wholeheartedly recommend it to those with an interest in these subjects.

Full disclosure: This review is based on a digital copy obtained from NetGalley, and the opinions expressed herein are solely my own.

[Valerity (Val) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be a rather eye-opening look at the whole Oswald story. The information about his mother is quite enlightening in view of how Oswald turned out. She seems to have been quite unlikable to most who made her acquaintance. Once Lee was killed everything became about money with her, as it always had been. She sold interviews, a self–written pamphlet, and eventually a book. She also sold some of Lee’s personal items for the highest amounts possible. She sought out recognition, for herself and for Lee, claiming he was a hero.