Columbine

by Dave Cullen
Columbine cover
Good Books rating 4.12
True Crime
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Waterstones
Paperback • £16.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 2244
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780446552219
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-04-06
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Ten years in the making, this book is a meticulously researched and definitive account of the Columbine massacre, its aftermath, and its significance. The author, Dave Cullen, who was one of the first reporters on the scene, challenges the common misconceptions about the tragedy, such as the involvement of jocks, Goths, or the Trench Coat Mafia. Instead, he delves into the psychological profiles of the two killers, offering a raw and detailed portrait of their motivations and actions. The book also explores how Columbine became a template for subsequent mass shootings, such as those in Newtown, Aurora, and Virginia Tech. With a new epilogue, the author examines the growing urgency to understand the crime that sparked this wave of violence. Drawing on extensive evidence, insights from leading forensic psychologists, and the killers' own words and drawings, Cullen provides a comprehensive analysis of the event and its broader implications.

Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2025-10-15
informative 4.00

The book is described as deeply challenging and informative, offering a thorough account of the Columbine shootings. It is considered worth the time to read.

This Reddit discussion praises 'Columbine' for its depth and thoroughness, with users finding it a deeply challenging and informative read. They appreciate the book's ability to provide new insights and correct common misconceptions about the events. The reviewer also expresses a desire to read more of Cullen's work, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the book. The overall sentiment is that 'Columbine' is a valuable and impactful read that sheds light on a tragic event.

Quick quotes

    Very much worth the time to read.

    A deeply challenging and informative book.

    I need to read more of his work.

The Guardian · 2019-02-09
insightful 4.00

The book offers a critical reflection on how media narratives shape our understanding of mass shootings. It highlights the evolution of journalism in covering such tragedies.

This review discusses how the author, Dave Cullen, initially swore off writing about mass shootings after Columbine but felt compelled to revisit the topic due to the persistent misinformation. The reviewer appreciates Cullen's thorough investigation and his critique of media coverage, which often perpetuates myths rather than facts. They also note that Cullen's work provides a nuanced understanding of the events and their broader implications. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable contribution to the discourse on mass shootings and media responsibility.

Quick quotes

    After Columbine, Dave Cullen swore he would never write about a mass shooting again.

    He realised that he and other journalists had got the story wrong.

    The book is a critical reflection on how media narratives shape our understanding of mass shootings.

The Guardian · 2009-05-02
profound 4.00

The book reveals the true motives of the killers and provides a stark contrast between their hatred and the resilience of the survivors.

The reviewer emphasizes the book's revelation of the killers' deep-seated hatred and their desire to inflict mass harm. They appreciate the stark contrast drawn between the perpetrators and the survivors, who show remarkable resilience and redemption. The book is seen as a profound exploration of the psychology behind such a tragic event, offering insights that challenge simplistic explanations. The reviewer also notes the emotional weight of the narrative, which is handled with sensitivity and depth.

Quick quotes

    The truth was these two boys hated the world and wanted to kill large numbers of people in it, ...

    Cullen paints raw portraits of two polar opposite killers.

    They contrast starkly with the flashes of resilience and redemption among the survivors.

The New York Times · 2009-04-16
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its excellent media criticism and sensitive portrayal of the events. It effectively debunks common myths surrounding the Columbine shootings.

The reviewer highlights that 'Columbine' is not just a retelling of the tragic events but also a profound critique of media coverage. They appreciate how the book shows how legends become truths through continual citation, often distorting the facts. The reviewer also notes the sensitivity with which Cullen handles the subject matter, providing a balanced and respectful account of the victims and the perpetrators. They find the book to be an essential read for understanding the complexities of such tragedies.

Quick quotes

    Columbine is an excellent work of media criticism.

    Showing how legends become truths through continual citation.

    A sensitive guide to the events and their aftermath.

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