America has a thing for true crime. Interesting, isn’t it? To think of millions of people around the country all fascinated by murders (that’s got to be a red flag…). True crime movies, shows, and novels are abundant. You turn on Lifetime and there’s an over-the-top movie about a serial killer moving in next door. You turn on Netflix and the most popular shows are the true crime documentaries they constantly throw in your face. I’m pretty sure there’s a television channel completely dedicated to true crime (my mom constantly watches this channel…I’m pretty sure she could commit a murder and get away spotfree). If you are like the millions of other Americans fascinated by true crime, then American Predator by Maureen Callahan is a book you should absolutely pick up.
The Gist
American Predator dives deep into an investigation for a serial killer by Alaska police and the FBI. Israel Keyes murdered people without discretion, without a type, and without emotion. He was thorough, premeditated, and intentional. He didn’t take chances and he made sure to leave no DNA behind. The author takes us through the crimes to which he confessed and the ones he likely committed. She delves into Keyes’ unique upbringing and what may have caused his killer tendencies.
The Review: Dude is Crazy!
This disturbing look into Israel Keyes is well written and keeps the reader intrigued from beginning to end. The author takes first-hand interviews and depositions and weaves them into this clear and chronological story that creates an opaque picture of the mind of a serial killer (because the mind of a serial killer is rarely transparent).
I particularly loved the way Callahan referenced additional resources throughout the book – Mindhunter, Dark Dreams, and other works on the behavioral analysis of serial killers. You can tell she did her homework before tackling this story and her references really help give a background for her analysis of Keyes’ psyche (aka CRAZY!). If you’re intrigued by books about Ted Bundy and the Zodiac killer, then definitely give this one a try. Although Israel Keyes isn’t as widely known, you won’t be disappointed with his story.
Alyssa Flores
Alyssa reads hundreds of books a year and is on a never-ending quest to find the perfect book.
