No comments about FBI: A Centennial History 1908-2008 (Hardcover): A Centennial History 1908-2008.

2 comments about The Crimes of Jack the Ripper.

1. I got this as a remainder book at my local bookstore. It is quick to read, covers the events and is basically "Jack the Ripper for Dummies". It's the cut and dry coverage of the murders, suspects, conspiracies, and the author's sumation without getting overly detailed and bogged down. Good book for the casual interest in JtR. However, there are errors and bias.
   
   The author appears to include Tabram in the JtR murders along with Coles and the 'canonical five'. Oddly, the author seemingly leans heavily towards Francis Tumblety but on the final page actual calls out multiple individuals for the deaths (which may account for his apparent inclusion of Tabram & coles). Thusly, JtR was not one person but more of either copycat style deaths or random coincidental murders. Decent enough for the casual reader, good enough to put in your collection, but far from being in the top books regarding JtR (still much better than Cornwell's though).



2. This is by far the best book that I have read about `Jack the Ripper' and his crimes. Of course, they only total five and I am by no means an expert on the subject. Perhaps that's why I found the book to be of such interest. It simply contains a lot of information about which I was unaware, particularly with regard to the numerous suspects.
   
   Three of the previous books which I had read tried to convince their readers that a particular suspect, or suspects, was actually Jack the Ripper and, in the process, introduced a lot of presumed evidence which the reader had no way to verify. The fourth (Uncovering Jack the Ripper's London) took its readers back to the Whitechapel District in the 1880s and walked them through that time and place during the reign of terror. This book went beyond that book and presented a much more comprehensive study of the crimes including a review of 1880s London; an assessment of the crimes, including the autopsy reports; the thoughts of the principle investigators, many reflecting back in their later years; and finally a discussion of the "usual" suspects and Scotland Yard's prime suspects.
   
   I liked the way the author presented his material and his fairly consistent objectivity. But I can't say that I agree with all of his conclusions, particularly those concerning James Maybrick and 'Jack the Ripper's Diary.' And I was more than a little surprised when, at the end of the book, he introduced his own, previously unknown, suspect.
   
   With regard to Maybrick, I couldn't help but wonder: If I had been a workman in Maybrick's old house and had found the diary, would I have told anyone? I don't really know that I would. And I'm not sure that modern FBI profiling can really be applied to a man becoming psychotic through his addiction to strychnine and arsenic. Furthermore, if the presumed forger of the diary was the scrap metal dealer Michael Barrett, Barrett must surely have been the most remarkable scrap dealer in world history. For besides being able to sell scrap metal he was also a world class expert in the psychotic behavior of the human mind. If he could also write, there must surely be samples of his handwriting for comparison with the diary. That would be more conclusive evidence as to whether, or not, he actually wrote it. Still further, I couldn't help but wonder about the two items, said to be unknown to the public, which were mentioned in the diary. I would also have liked to have heard a little something about the twist in the supposed word 'Juwes' as scribed on the wall (but copied and erased), and 'James' as used in the diary. Simply stated, I'm not convinced that Maybrick can be so easily ruled out as a suspect. But, what do I know?
   
   As for the author's introduction of Jacob Levy as a new suspect, previously unknown to the police: I found this to be quite remarkable and a little amusing, especially when he concluded that Levy's death in a mental asylum in 1891 may have been the reason that Scotland Yard officially closed their files on the Whitechapel murders. Why would they do that if they didn't know he was a suspect? And why wouldn't they tell the public? That struck me as particularly strange considering the fact that it followed a chapter in which virtually all of the principle Scotland Yard investigators, many reflecting back years later, said they had no idea who `Jack the Ripper' really was. But still, I can't help but wonder: Who had enough power and influence to close the case and seal the records for 100 years? And why would they do that? No wonder the Royal Family is, and will likely continue to be, a prime suspect.
   
   Bottom line: This book presents an excellent overview of the `Whitechapel Murders' and is quite thought provoking. If you have even the slightest interest in `Jack the Ripper,' you will certainly enjoy it.

5 comments about Lone Star Lawmen: The Second Century of the Texas Rangers.

1. Robert M. Utley follows his masterful account of the first century of the Texas Rangers, Lone Star Justice, with another tour de force, bringing the story up to date. Brilliantly written and meticulously documented, as always with this celebrated historian of the West, this book traces the transformation of a frontier peace force at the beginning of the 20th century to today's internationally recognized investigative and law-enforcement force, a small band of efficient professionals whose frontier history will always hang over them. Casting off frontier ways was not always easy, politically or professionally, as Utley clearly explains. He is not afraid to deal with the controversial aspects of his subject's history, in particular repeated charges of racism and high-handed brutality. This is no love poem to this sometimes controversial organization, as Utley takes on the negative as well as the positive, with judiciouos balance. On the whole, his judgment of the Rangers, for all the regrettable elements of their past, is favorable, and he concludes that the organization has not so much overcome its history as learned from it. A welcome corrective to the romanticizing that usually characterizes stories about the Rangers. Recommended to anyone interested in the history of Texas, the West, and law enforcement. Given that issues involving the US border with Mexico are in the forefront lately, this book provides informative background.



2. Robert Utley shows again why he is the dean of western history with the second part of his masterful account of the Texas Rangers. While this isn't as romantically wild and woolly as the previous volume--it's inevitable, as automobiles replace horses and the solving of cases relies on more technical tools--it's still engaging and colorful. A great historian--and a great storyteller--does a magnificent job once more.



3. As a proud native Texan I have relished the mythology of the Texas Rangers as much as anyone else. But after a century and three quarters of a steady diet of stories of larger-than-life Rangers who could do no wrong it is past time that we begin to understand these lawmen as the real men they were. Some of what they did was extraordinarily good and some extraordinarily bad. Robert Utley, who has never yet stepped back from pushing fact in the face of popular mythology, has helped us know the genuine background of Texas as few others have done.



4. 
   Much to the pleasure of Texans and history buffs acclaimed historian Robert Utley returns with his sequel to Lone Star Justice (2002) thus bringing the saga of the Texas Rangers to the present day. Many have been introduced to the Rangers via television with such programs as Walker or Texas Ranger, yet it is left to Utley to deliver the most telling and intriguing story of all.
   
   We read, "One Riot, One Ranger. A single Ranger could quell an incipient riot. Rangers and Texans alike reveled in the image of the stalwart, fearless lawman facing down an angry mob. On occasion it came close enough to happening to provide at least an inspiration for the slogan."
   
   Yes, the Rangers were and are, for many, men of mythic stature. Utley debunks some myths while perpetuating others. History is at its most fascinating as the Rangers enter the twentieth century leaving their beloved horses behind and chasing criminals in motorized vehicles. They're no longer after rustlers but set their sights on modern criminals and the utilization of contemporary methods, such as forensic science.
   
   With Lone Star Lawmen readers view the Mexican Revolution (a dark point in Ranger history) and visit towns made rich and lawless by oil. The dramatic capture of Bonnie and Clyde is retold, as well as the Branch Davidian tragedy near Waco.
   
   Prodigiously researched Lone Star Lawmen is one more valuable addition to Texas history.
   
   - Gail Cooke



5. An accurate accounting of the modern-day Texas Rangers. A must read for the Texas Ranger enthusiast and those interested in the history of law enforcement in Texas. I loved the section about "Garrison's Rangers". A real good read!! I highly recommend.

5 comments about Sleep My Little Dead: The True Story of the Zodiac Killer (St. Martin's true crime library).

1. I read a lot of true crime books and all I can say is: spend the money and read the book. Crowley really gets into the mind of the killer. Awesome story-telling.



2. Save your time, save your money, don't purchase this book.

   Yes, in NYC this guy was called the Zodiac, but this author uses California's infamous Zodiac Killer symbol, etc. on the cover. So much for imagination.

   The book itself is a total waste of time, the writing is poor, there are spelling and grammatical mistakes throughout. If I could have given this book a zero star rating I would have.

   If you want good true Crime check out books by Graysmith, Keppel, Rule, Bledsoe and Carlton Smith, these names are KNOWN in the True Crime genre, Crowley is not.




3. I've read material safety data sheets more engaging than this. Stick with Graysmith or others if you want a good read.



4. THIS BOOK GIVEs INSIGHT TO A SMALL PERSON WHO WAS NOT THE BIGGEST OR BEST OF THE SERIAL KILLERS I HAVE READ ABOUT. THIS PERSON WAS VERY RANDOM AND JUST WANTED TO MAKE HIMSELF A NAME.HE TRIED TO PATTERN HIMSELF AFTER THE ORIGINAL ZODIAC KILLER & DID NOT DO A GOOD JOB AT THIS. APPEARS TO BE A YOUNG PERSON WHO HAD MENTAL ISSUES THAT GOT TOTALLY OUT OF HAND & DESTROYED PERSONS LIVES IN THE PROCESS. A GOOD BOOK BUT NOT THE BEST I HAVE READ!!



5. I have not read this book but when I came across it at the book store one day I immediately recognized that the author uses the notoriety of the San Francisco Zodiac murders as his selling point. I am very familiar with the San Francisco Zodiac killings and I admit for a second that I thought the murders had been solved until I realized that the picture of the man on the cover looked too young to be the Zodiac from the late 60's. The release of ZODIAC in 2007 may inspire some viewers who are unfamiliar with the case to want to read the books by Robert Graysmith and may also buy this book as well thinking the case has been solved.

1 comments about Lo Capos, Las narco-rutas de Mexico (Best Seller (Debolsillo)).

1. I think is an informative book that covers really well the subject, however, the author in the first chapters spend too much time to attack some people in the Mexican Government that are not really related to what the book is about. The rest of the book is very precise and informative!.

No comments about Road Without End: On the Run with Bonnie & Clyde.

3 comments about The Ultimate Jack the Ripper Companion: An Illustrated Encyclopedia.

1. An exhaustive record of all official correspondence, case file notes, evidence details and media reports concering the Jack the Ripper/Whitechapel murders of 1888-91. A very thorough research guide for serious Ripperologists. Includes all major case notes and relevant data, as well as a solid collection of photographs and drawings. Recommended for the hardcore Ripper enthusiast, and as a companion to other books on the case, especially Sugden's "The Complete History of Jack the Ripper".



2. This book is a necessary addition to any Ripper library. It is essentially a compilation of contemporary documents, mostly police, inquest and newspaper reports. It covers the major bases, including the individual murders and some documents relating to suspects and police opinions. Although it obviously may not be as comprehensive or up-to-date as one might like, it is one of the few primary source collections on the Whitechapel crimes, which alone makes it worth the read.



3. It is indeed rarest of rare to find a book that is perfectly true in terms of its name, and this book falls under that "category" (are there any other books in that class?). It is trully ultimate as a sourcebook for the "Jack the Ripper" killing that terrorised London and keeps on horrifying us after all these years. Every year we come across new "theories" propounded either by the Ripperologists, or by rank amateurs trying to cash on our queries. But this book remains true and authentic. If at any point in my life I consider myself qualified enough to uplift myself to the rank of a Ripperologist rather than being the curious folk (as at present), I will make a thorough study of everything in this book. Until then, I can merely recommend: "please get hold of a copy of this book by any means".

5 comments about Blood Will Tell: A Shocking True Story of Marriage, Murder, and Fatal Family Secrets (St. Martin's True Crime Library).

1. I found this book a bit slow and tedious compared to writings by other true crime writers like Ann Rule and Jerry Bledsoe. The author reveals from the first chapter that Ken is in prison so the book never builds any anticipation as to whether the police will build a case against him. The most interesting thing about the whole book is the eerie similarities to the Michael Peterson case going on right now in NC which is being televised on CourtTV. Actually, that case is more interesting, skip the book.



2. I just finished reading this book and was very disappointed with it. He tell everything that happen through the whole trial. All of this could have been left out and then at the end of the book all he writes is the jury knew Ken had killed his wife. Then he just ended the book. He didn't say what the sentence was or how long he will have to serve. This is a very important part of a true crime book'



3. I couldn't finish the book. It was so tedious that I fell asleep. If you want a good true crime try: "Scream at the Sky" by Carlton Stowers, "Salt of the Earth" by Jack Olsen or any one of John Walsh's books.



4. Its nice to feel confident when ordering from Amazon...knowing that the item will be shipped as stated and arrive just as advertised.
   Keep up the great work gang....
   Don



5. This was a pretty good book. I have read better books by Carlton Smith, but it was still worth my time. The husband is so irritating, you can't put it down wanting to see just what he is going to come up with next!

5 comments about Crimson Stain: The Shocking True Story of the Only Amish Man to be Convicted of Homicide (Berkley True Crime).

1. Eddie Gingerich is a pretty frightening example of the downside of living in an isolated, doctrinal community. He was headed over the edge and there wasn't much in his community frame of reference to get him the help he desperately needed. The book is impossible to put down. The publisher has helpfully provided an unintentional promotional gimmick by printing "Crimson Stain" with such cheap, smelly inks and paper that you begin to sympathize with Eddie as he works away in his shed, inhaling the "petrochemical fumes" which allegedly contributed to his insanity. It's a whole new way to bring the reader into the book's world. Fisher is a good true crime writer, and it's involving from start to finish.



2. I remember when this crime occured, but only recently saw this book. It was a great read. I thought it was very inciteful, as opposed to a lot of "true crime" tabloid-type accounts.

   A few quick comments:
   - The details leading up to the crime and the murder itself were well described. As other reviewers have mentioned, the section on the trial was weaker. The author could have started with describing the trial and presented the details in various flashbacks at appropriate points. I've never written a book myself, so I find it hard to be too judgmental.
   - Given the reluctance of the major figures in the book to become involved in the trial or any other activity outside their own community, I was very curious as to how the author was able to compile such detailed accounts. A preface or additional material on the method he used and the main players he interviewed would have been nice.
   - The story was great in providing a complex look at the Amish society which is usually only seen in cliched calendars and tired stereotypes - the peaceful, simple folk, who shun the evils of the outside world. This would make such a better movie than "Witness."
   - A very minor point. The author wrote disapprovingly about the local residents who drove by the murder scene after hearing of the crime. I thought that this was pretty ironic in that the disapproval appears in a paperback account detailing the lives and personal problems of the people involved. Curious nonparticipants are exactly the kind of people that would be reading the book...If another edition ever comes out, hopefully it would include some additional information about the participants in the intervening years.




3. The book is a meer thin paperback that took me months to read and I didn't even get to finish it I was so bored to tears.

   Jim Fisher repeated himself over and over in every chapter. One was like reading the other. I read about 5 books a month, this was the most boring book ever in my life to read. Don't waste your money on this book ... if you "must" read it try your local library, or buy it through Amazon.com for a buck 75 or less/




4. Ed is shunned from his Brownhill Amish community and is allowed to see his children for one hour once a year. He writes and receives letters from them and his family. He is currently at a specialized Amish community with people of his faith who also have similar mental problems, where he helps counsel, and works 15 miles away for a Mennanite farmer doing mechanical work. He recently rebuilt a molding machine that can be used to make tongue and groove flooring.
   
   He's staying on his medication regimen and communicates "normally", and clearly. He sounds like he is in fairly good spirits over the phone. I talked to him for about a half an hour on October 30, 2005 and we talk several times a year.
   
   Katie's mother moved to NY state to get away from the area and the memories of all that had happened. Katie's brother, Emmanuel Shetler, built my house and several out buildings.
   This entire tragedy would have never happened if his community and family understood that mental illnesses do exist and that Eddie suffered greatly. By simply saying "the Devil" was in him or made him do it, is a poor summary of the situation. With the proper medication, from the right doctor, this could have all been prevented.
   
   And for those of you who labeled Eddie as a quick-tempered bully, I've known Ed 2 years before the tragedy and never heard him raise his voice. We drove 6 hours to Lancaster, PA to look at a diesel engine that he saw advertised in an Amish paper, and when we got there and saw the engine, it was not as described in the ad. He did not show any anger or hostility. Not one negative comment.



5. While the topic was interesting, the cause for the book was tragic. But let's talk about the actual writing of the book.
   
   I found the introduction of the characters and locations incredibly tedious and laid out in a manner that was very hard to follow. I nearly tossed the book after the first couple of chapters due to this. Introducing a large family in alphabetical order makes about as much sense as introducing the extended British Royal Family in alphabetical order, especially when many family members have the same first name. Sure, in the book, the family list identifies middle initials to distinguish the people, but the middle initials aren't used in the rest of the book. How about presenting the families in chart form, such as a basic family tree? That would have been so much easier to sort out.
   
   I also found myself getting really bored due to repeat information (nearly throwing the book out again many times) and *hoping* that something unexpected would occur, not because I thought the underlying story should have such twists and turns, but because the writer tries to entice us into believing there are possible twists of the story, and then leaves us flat because those events didn't really happen. I kept thinking, 'a-hah! the prosecution will call so-and-so as a witness" based upon the writing, but alas, false hopes all around.
   
   And, I don't think I'd be giving anything away here, after all the cover of the book states "The Shocking True Story of the Only Amish Man Ever Convicted of Homicide", but I don't understand why Fisher tried to make it sound as if there was a possibility that Mr. Gingerich might be acquitted of homicide in the latter portion of the book. The cover clearly states he was convicted. By the end of the book, I started just skimming paragraphs to find out what the sentence was for Mr. Gingerich's conviction. If I did pause to read a paragraph, I was faithfully disappointed.
   
   All in all, I'm so glad that I bought this book at a $1 store and didn't pay regular price for it. Had it been a library book, I would have just returned it without ever finishing it. I usually donate my used books, but this one is going straight to the recycle bin.

1 comments about The FBI Files Sam Giancana.

1. This is a very good book on the Chicago mob dealing with the years for the 1950's, 60's and 70's. The book is loaded with tons of information on Sam "Mooney" Giancana, Chicago's most famous mob boss other than Al Capone. The book goes into great detail about his organized crime operations, his life as mob boss, his friends, his enemies, his lovers, his association with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, his family, and the battle between Giancana and the FBI. It explains how the FBI investigated Giancana and the steps that were taken to bring him down. It's a good book!