For the Thrill of It

by Simon Baatz
For the Thrill of It cover
Good Books rating 3.5
True Crime
Technical:
  • ID: 886
  • Added: 2025-09-21
  • Updated: 2025-09-21
  • Publisher: Harper
  • Published: 2008-08-05
  • Reviews: 3

For the Thrill of It offers a riveting recreation of one of the most infamous crimes of the 20th century, the Leopold-Loeb murder case. This book delves into the scandalous events that shocked Chicago, providing a detailed and immersive account of the crime and its aftermath. The narrative is enriched with photos throughout, offering a visual journey through this dark chapter of history. /n/nThe book is written in the tradition of The Devil in the White City, combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling. It explores the psychological and social dimensions of the case, making it a fascinating read for those interested in true crime and historical events. The author's approach brings the past to life, making the story as engaging as it is informative.

Reviews
Loeb and Leopold · 2019-09-05
skeptical 2.50

The reviewer questions the depth of the research, finding the bibliography sparse despite the praise for the book's thoroughness. They suggest the book sensationalizes the crime rather than providing a nuanced analysis.

The reviewer expresses skepticism about the book's research, noting that the bibliography is surprisingly sparse for a work that is often praised for its thoroughness. They argue that the book leans more towards sensationalism, focusing on the shocking details of the crime rather than offering a deeper psychological or sociological analysis. While the writing is engaging, the reviewer feels that it falls short of providing a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Quick quotes

    Though he is so often praised for the incredible research he did on this book, when you look into his bibliography it is disturbingly sparse.

    The book sensationalizes the crime rather than providing a nuanced analysis.

    It falls short of providing a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Semicolon · Ava · 2011-10-26
absorbing 4.00

The book is noted for its absorbing narrative and the author's ability to blend historical facts with a gripping story. The reviewer appreciates the detailed account and the way the book keeps the reader engaged.

The reviewer praises the book for its absorbing narrative and the author's skill in blending historical facts with a compelling story. They appreciate the detailed account of the crime and the way the book keeps the reader engaged throughout. The reviewer also notes the author's ability to provide a balanced perspective, offering a comprehensive look at the events and the people involved. The book is seen as a valuable addition to the literature on this infamous case.

Quick quotes

    Baatz begins his tale of the 'murder that shocked Chicago' and the nation in 1924 with a longer excerpt from Dostoyevsky's fictional crime novel.

    The book is impressive in its research, even-handed in its tone and immensely readable.

    It is a valuable addition to the literature on this infamous case.

The New York Times · Richard E. Gordon · 2008-08-17
compelling 4.00

The book is praised for its meticulous research and well-written narrative, offering a compelling exploration of the crime. The author's background in criminal justice adds depth to the analysis.

The reviewer highlights the author's extensive research and engaging writing style, which brings the chilling details of the crime to life. They appreciate the even-handed tone and the way the book delves into the psychological aspects of the perpetrators. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of this infamous case, providing a detailed and absorbing account that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    Baatz, a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Manhattan, has done meticulous research, and he writes extremely well.

    As a result, the book is a compelling and chilling account of a crime that shocked the nation.

    The author's background in criminal justice adds depth to the analysis.

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