Let's get this out of the way: 'Further E. K. Means' is a strange beast. Published in 1936, it's the personal account of Eldred Kurtz Means, a man who was right in the thick of American political drama during the Teapot Dome and other oil scandals. This isn't a history book written by a scholar; it's a man fighting for his legacy with a pen.

The Story

The plot is Means's life, as told by him. He walks us through his career as a lawyer in Oklahoma and Washington D.C., his work for the government, and his central role in the investigations that rocked the Harding administration. He was accused of many things—being a 'fixer,' taking bribes, manipulating the system. This book is his direct response. He lays out letters, telegrams, and his recollection of events to argue that he was acting in good faith, that he was a patriot caught in a web of bigger powers and bad press. The narrative jumps around as he tries to tackle each accusation, but the core is always the same: 'This is what really happened.'

Why You Should Read It

I loved this because it's raw and unfiltered. You're not getting a polished, third-person history. You're getting E.K. Means, in his own (often lawyerly and detailed) words, making his case directly to you, the jury. It's a brilliant look at how someone constructs their own defense, how they choose what to highlight and what to skim over. You can feel his frustration and his pride. It makes you think hard about truth, memory, and how we all try to shape the story of our lives, especially when that story is under attack. The man is a compelling character, whether you believe him or not.

Final Verdict

Perfect for true crime or political history fans who enjoy primary sources and messy, human narratives. If you like stories where the narrator might not be totally reliable, or if you're fascinated by the gritty, personal side of early 20th-century American politics, this is a hidden gem. It's not a light beach read—it demands some attention—but it offers a unique, front-row seat to one man's lifelong battle with his own reputation.