The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers [Paperback]

Harold Schechter (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 4, 2006

Bestselling true-crime writer Harold Schechter, a leading authority on serial killers, and coauthor David Everitt offer a guided tour through the bizarre and blood-chilling world of serial murder. Through hundreds of detailed entries that span the entire spectrum -- the shocking crimes, the infamous perpetrators, and much more -- they examine all angles of a gruesome cultural phenomenon that grips our imagination.

From Art (both by and about serial killers) to Zeitgeist (how killers past and present embody their times)...from Groupies (even the most sadistic killer can claim devoted fans) to Marriage (the perfect domestic disguise for demented killers)...from Homebodies (psychos who slay in the comfort of their homes) to Plumbing (how clogged drains have undone the most discreet killer), THE A TO Z ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SERIAL KILLERS is the ultimate reference for anyone compelled by the personalities and pathologies behind the most disturbing of crimes.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"The scholarship is both genuine and fascinating."

-- The Boston Book Review

About the Author

Harold Schechter is a professor of American literature and culture. Renowned for his true-crime writing, he is the author of the nonfiction books Fatal, Fiend, Bestial, Deviant, Deranged, Depraved, and, with David Everitt, The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers. He is also the author of Nevermore and The Hum Bug, the acclaimed historical novels featuring Edgar Allan Poe. He lives in New York State.

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Gallery Books; Rev Upd edition (July 4, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1416521747
• ISBN-13: 978-1416521747
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #183,863 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best Serial Killer Book, March 27, 2008

By 

P. Fidler "brookedavisfan" (Texas) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers (Paperback)

This is a very interesting book about anything you want to know about Serial Killers. Every killer you know is in there along with many you don't. If you are a crime reader or love crime in general you will love it.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Some interesting info, July 13, 2007

By 

James A. Forrest "Signal20" (Bradenton, Fl.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers (Paperback)

This book is not really an encyclopedia of information on serial killers, but more of an overview of the more notorious. The format was somewhat lacking; not in a manner that one would take very serious (there's not even an index). It is a quick read and does provide entertainment; as long as you have a twisted couriousity (which I do).

James A. Forrest - Eye of the Storm

3.0 out of 5 stars Not as detailed as I wanted, May 31, 2011

By 

Marie Mari "Mam" (Ca,) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers (Paperback)

I was somewhat disappointed in the information or lack of information on the individual. I expected a more detailed description of the crime and punishment.