The Scientist and the Serial Killer by

In the early 1970s, Houston was a city of contrasts, home to NASA's innovation and a dark underbelly where over two dozen teenage boys vanished without a trace. The Houston police dismissed them as runaways, but the truth was far more sinister. Decades later, forensic anthropologist Sharon Derrick discovered a box of remains marked '1973 Murders' and took it upon herself to uncover the identities of the victims, known as the Lost Boys. Through advanced scientific techniques and relentless effort, she brought closure to the families of these young men, revealing the horrifying crimes of Dean Corll, the 'Candy Man.'/n/nInvestigative journalist Lise Olsen delves into the chilling details of this case, bringing to life the stories of the victims and the extraordinary dedication of Sharon Derrick. With newly uncovered information, The Scientist and the Serial Killer immerses readers in a story that remains relevant, highlighting the importance of justice and the power of forensic science.

Reviews

The Book Delight · 2025-04-15

unforgettable 4.50

The narrative is described as unforgettable, blending forensic science, missing persons, and unsolved crimes. The reviewer highlights the author's investigative skills and the book's emotional depth.

This review praises the book for its unforgettable narrative, which seamlessly blends elements of forensic science, missing persons cases, and unsolved crimes. The reviewer commends the author's investigative skills and the emotional depth of the story, noting how it brings to life the victims and the scientific efforts to identify them. The book is seen as a powerful exploration of justice and the enduring impact of crime on communities. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to make complex scientific processes accessible and engaging, while also highlighting the human stories behind the cases.

Quick quotes

This is an unforgettable narrative of forensic science, missing persons, and unsolved crimes by award-winning investigative journalist Lise Olsen.

The book's strength lies in its ability to humanize the victims and the scientists, making the story both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Olsen's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this a standout in the true crime genre.

Open Letters Review · 2025-04-02

compelling 4.50

The book delves into the long-term emotional damage inflicted by serial killers on victims' families. It highlights the meticulous work of a forensic scientist in identifying the victims of the 'Candy Man'.

This review emphasizes the profound and lasting impact of serial killers on the families of their victims, focusing on the emotional turmoil and uncertainty they endure. The narrative is praised for its thorough exploration of the forensic process, showcasing how one dedicated scientist's efforts brought closure to decades-old cases. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to humanize both the victims and the scientist, making the story both compelling and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

This touches on one of the most cruel and subtle long-term damages that so many serial killers inflict: the doubt, the gnawing, mostly ...

The book is a testament to the power of forensic science and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Olsen's writing is both evocative and precise, bringing to life the emotional and scientific complexities of the case.

Kristine Hallways Blog · 2025-03-27

impactful 4.75

The book is described as engrossing and weighty, with the author pulling no punches in her narrative. It is considered a necessary and impactful read.

The reviewer finds the book to be deeply engaging and emotionally heavy, appreciating the author's unflinching approach to the subject matter. They highlight the importance of the story in bringing attention to the victims and the scientific efforts to identify them. The narrative is praised for its evocative storytelling, which makes the reader feel the weight of the crimes and the significance of the forensic work. The reviewer believes this is a book that needed to be written and commends the author for her thorough and impactful presentation.

Quick quotes

Engrossing, evocative, and weighty, THE SCIENTIST AND THE SERIAL KILLER is a book that needed writing, and Lise Olsen pulls no punches and ...

The narrative is both heartbreaking and inspiring, showcasing the resilience of the victims' families and the dedication of the scientists.

Olsen's detailed research and compassionate storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in true crime and forensic science.

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