Flashbacks can work well in books, as well as in films (but are rarely used effectively). In The Godfather, Puzo told us of Vito's assassination attempt and the death of Santinio in flashback. I think that this is one of the book's downfalls; such incidents lose severe impact when told in flashback. I actually think that flashbacks work better in films, as then you can find out how the incident happened and then think "ah, so that's how it happened. That was clever." Do you agree? I do not know why Puzo wanted to tell the story part in flashbacks. Maybe he thought it would add more depth.

I'm very grateful that FFC decided to do away with this method! Imagine the film with Vito saying to Bonasera "look how they have massacred my boy," and then cutting to the Sonny at the causeway scene?

Mick