Danielle V. reviewed on 4/8/2010

Helpful Score: 2

As a new high school student in 1999, this event defined those four years for me. Security on campus increased; several students were suspended for wearing trench coats within days of the massacre. I started writing "Massacre in May," a fictional story with heavy Columbine influences, in order to try to comprehend the thought processes of both sides of something so traumatic and powerful as this.

Dave Cullen's book answered every question I had. Eric Harris, who in photos looked handsome and charming, was as such in real-life - but only to further his sociopathic goals. Dylan Klebold, the shy boy with a warm smile, was hiding thoughts of suicide. Three-quarters of the way through this work, I had trouble falling asleep because there were still some unanswered questions. By the end, they'd been answered. Cullen's journalistic style is just as the cover states: Capote would be proud.

To anyone who experienced this national tragedy, I highly recommend this book. To anyone who didn't, read it and understand. Compassion, understanding, and alertness to any warning signs are the ways to prevent a repeat of this type of horror.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details