Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books to Read If You're a True Crime Reader

As always, Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the wonderful The Broke and The Bookish.

These are considered two of the classics in this genre, and for good reason. They not only tell the tale of the crime itself, and its aftermath, but the culture, society, and politics surrounding the era in which the crime occurred. 

This is a brilliant book that looks at many notorious crimes through the light of statistical analysis. I am not a math fan by any means, but this book is absolutely fascinating, and is written in an easily accessible narrative style that flows like fiction.

This is definitely a modern classic, and an exemplary example of how to perfectly blend history and crime.

This is one of my all-time favorite true crime books. It is so well-written, and tells its story so well.

This is a newer entry in the true crime genre. The author has clearly done extensive research and presents all aspects and angles of Manson's life, from childhood to jail.

I remember this being one of the first true crime books I ever read. I borrowed my parents' copy, and now have a copy of my very own (which reminds me I'm due for a re read of this soon). To me, it's akin to a modern day In Cold Blood, with the author being so personally immersed in the setting and with the people.

This case has always fascinated me-the psychology, the fact that it takes place in my hometown, the trial, the scandal-I even did a research project on it in high school that turned into a paper in college.

This is one of the most difficult books I've ever read, but also one of the most important. It covers the Columbine shooting in such heartbreaking detail, debunking the prevalent media myths, and getting at the painful truth.

Sherlock Holmes fans plus solving super mysterious unsolved crimes is a guaranteed win, especially when the book is really well-written.


And a bonus!