Mindhunter cover
Good Books rating 4.17
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Technical
  • ID: 2250
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781501191961
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2017-10-24
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Mindhunter takes readers behind the scenes of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit, where agents John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker delve into the minds of some of America's most notorious criminals. The book explores the development of criminal profiling techniques through interviews with infamous killers, including the Trailside Killer, the Atlanta child murderer, and the Green River killer. It's a harrowing yet fascinating look at the psychology of violence and the birth of modern criminal investigation. Based on real cases and the authors' firsthand experiences, Mindhunter offers a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and the men who commit these heinous acts. The book is not just a collection of crime stories but also a deep dive into the minds of those who commit them, providing insights into the motivations and behaviors of serial killers.

Reviews
Reddit - r/MindHunter · 2023-10-10
Engaging 3.50

The reviewer finds the book to be a great read but notes that John Douglas's subsequent works repeat similar content. The book is engaging but may not offer new insights for those familiar with the author's other works.

This Reddit discussion shares mixed feelings about the book. While it's engaging and provides valuable insights into criminal profiling, the reviewer mentions that John Douglas tends to repeat similar ideas in his other books. If you're new to his work, it's a great starting point, but for those familiar with his writing, it might feel redundant.


Quick quotes

    It's a great read, but you'll pretty much never need to read anything else by John Douglas afterward.

    He basically just says the same shit over and over...

    A great starting point for those new to his work, but may feel redundant for familiar readers.

steemit.com · anaerwu · 2023-01-01
Fascinating 4.50

The reviewer praises the book as a fascinating case study of both serial killers and the author himself. It offers deep insights into the psychology of crime and the FBI's investigative techniques.

This review from Steemit highlights the book's dual appeal as both a true crime story and a personal journey of the author. The reviewer appreciates the detailed interviews and the psychological insights, making it a must-read for true crime enthusiasts. The book also serves as a reflection of the author's own experiences and mindset.


Quick quotes

    Mindhunter, in addition to being a source of information about the most dangerous serial killers of America, is also a fascinating case study of the author...

    The book offers deep insights into the psychology of crime and the FBI's investigative techniques.

    A must-read for true crime enthusiasts, with detailed interviews and psychological insights.

Compelling 4.50

The reviewer finds the book to be a true crime classic with a gripping narrative. The book provides a deep dive into the minds of serial killers and the FBI's methods.

This review highlights the book's ability to blend the intensity of a novel with the grim reality of true crime. The reviewer notes how the book offers a fascinating look into the psychology of serial killers and the FBI's approach to understanding them. Overall, it's a compelling read that stands out in the true crime genre.


Quick quotes

    With the fierce page-turning power of a bestselling novel, yet terrifyingly true, Mindhunter is a true crime classic.

    The book provides a deep dive into the minds of serial killers and the FBI's methods.

    A fascinating look into the psychology of serial killers and the FBI's approach to understanding them.