The Dead Girl

by Melanie Thernstrom
The Dead Girl cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Biography and Memoir
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Format • £17.09
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  • ID: 2398
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780671663339
  • Published: 1991-01-01
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3

In 1984, Berkeley student Roberta Lee was found brutally murdered after going on a run with her lover, Bradley Page. Page initially confessed to the crime but later recanted, leaving the case shrouded in mystery. Written by Roberta's closest friend, this book is a deeply personal and multi-layered exploration of memory, loss, and redemption. It weaves together fragments of Roberta's life, the events surrounding her death, and the emotional journey of those left behind. The book is a poignant blend of memoir, true crime, and reflection, offering a unique perspective on grief, justice, and the complexities of human relationships. Illustrated throughout, it captures the essence of Roberta's life and the enduring impact of her death on those who knew her.

Reviews
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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