The Dead Girl

by Melanie Thernstrom
The Dead Girl cover
Good Books rating 3.88
True Crime
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Format • £17.09
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Paperback • £17.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2398
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2026-02-21
  • ISBN: 9780671663339
  • Published: 1991-01-01
  • Formats: 11
  • Reviews: 4

In 1984, Berkeley student Roberta Lee went for a run with her lover Bradley Page, but only Page returned. Roberta's battered body was found five weeks later, and within hours, Page confessed to her murder—only to recant shortly after. Written by Roberta's closest friend, this multi-layered work is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the elusive nature of redemption. Illustrated throughout, the book delves into the emotional and psychological aftermath of Roberta's tragic death, offering a deeply personal and haunting narrative. /n/n The author's intimate connection to Roberta provides a unique perspective, blending personal recollections with the broader themes of grief and healing. This haunting account is not just a retelling of a crime but a profound meditation on the enduring impact of loss on those left behind.

Reviews
The Storygraph · 2026-02-21
bittersweet 3.50

The book starts and ends strongly but has a rambling middle section. It is also quite sad and captures the essence of the 1980s well.

This reviewer found the beginning and end of the book particularly compelling, while the middle section felt rambling and strange. They also noted the book's emotional impact, describing it as terribly sad. The setting and details, like the fashion of the 1980s, were highlighted as well-captured aspects of the narrative. Overall, they appreciated the book's ability to evoke a strong emotional response and its authentic portrayal of a past era.

Quick quotes

    Part 5 of this book is rambling and strange but the beginning and end are great.

    And terribly sad.

    Also very '80: leotards are worn.

Melinda J. Irvine · Melinda J. Irvine · 2019-11-09
harrowing 4.50

The memoir is described as complex, raw, and real, with a focus on the author's obsession with the case. The reviewer appreciates the raw emotion and the detailed portrayal of grief and loss.

Melinda J. Irvine delves into the memoir's emotional depth, highlighting how Melanie Thernstrom's personal connection to the victim adds a layer of rawness and authenticity. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling, particularly how it captures the author's obsession with the case and the intricate details of the investigation. They also note the memoir's ability to evoke a deep sense of grief and loss, making it a poignant read. Irvine appreciates the way Thernstrom weaves her personal journey with the broader societal context of the time, creating a multifaceted portrait of a tragic event.

Quick quotes

    But it's a memoir and as a story it's complex, raw, and real.

    It is told over a number of years and we feel Melanie's immediate obsession for the truth.

    The author's personal connection to the victim adds a layer of rawness and authenticity.

The Storygraph · fourlittlebees · 1990-10-14
moving 4.00

The reviewer finds the book deeply moving and heart-wrenching, comparing it favorably to other true crime memoirs. They appreciate the personal touch and the detailed account of the investigation.

fourlittlebees finds 'The Dead Girl' to be a profoundly moving and heart-wrenching account of a tragic event. They highlight the personal connection between the author and the victim, which adds a unique perspective to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the detailed portrayal of the investigation and the emotional depth of the author's journey. They also note that the book stands out in the true crime genre due to its personal touch and the author's ability to convey the impact of the crime on her life. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read that stays with the reader long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    Absolutely phenomenally moving and heart wrenching.

    The impact of death on a young best friend is explored with raw honesty.

    The author's personal connection to the victim adds a unique perspective to the narrative.

The New York Times · 1990-10-14
thought-provoking 3.50

The reviewer describes the book as a literary study rather than a true crime narrative, highlighting its unique approach and the use of literary references.

The New York Times reviewer sees 'The Dead Girl' as a literary study rather than a traditional true crime account. They appreciate the author's use of literary references and the unique approach to storytelling. The reviewer notes that the book is more about the author's personal journey and the literary gamesmanship involved in retelling the story. They find the book to be a thought-provoking exploration of grief, memory, and the power of storytelling. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to capture the essence of a generation and the societal context of the time.

Quick quotes

    This is not true crime; it is a study in literary gamesmanship.

    There are epigraphs from Milan Kundera, Terry Eagleton, and others that add depth to the narrative.

    The book is a portrait of a generation and a study in literary gamesmanship.

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