The Encyclopedia Schools Haven't Found Out About Yet...

....and I'm glad they haven't! This book both disturbed and fascinated me. It's nothing less than a compilation of all the notable people throughout history twisted enough to turn to killing innocent people for personal pleasure (most crimes are sexual, too). Although I normally love this stuff, this book disturbed me more than any others have (including "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote, which came close). I mean....at the risk of sounding hopelessly naive, THIS IS REAL. I can read story after Stephen King story, but these are real crimes and real killers.

Interesting

I felt the book was very interesting, very well organized, but to me it lacked something. Not sure how to put my finger on it but a good reference.

Good Introduction, But Neither Definitive Nor Very Thorough -

I picked this book up, on remainder, at the local Border's. It was only six dollars, and for this price, the book has served its purpose. The Encyclopedia of Serial Killers reviews, in a few paragraphs, numerous killers throughout history. It is organised like a typical encyclopedia, alphabetically by the killer's last name. Additionally, serial-killer 'phenomena' (for lack of abetter word) are explored (eg, cults, cross dressing).