kitty_kat21's review
3.0
Originally posted here
Issue number 18 of the Atavist magazine. Very short, this is an intriguing look at a cannibalistic child killer, Albert Fish in 1920s New York. No details of his crimes are dressed up and the facts are presented clinically which chilled me to the bone. The crimes described are so dark and I can't come to terms with the fact that those crimes actually happened. What a horrible way to die. Fish was a sick, disturbed individual.
Blum examines how the killer was caught and his subsequent trial. It was interesting to read how the insanity defence unfolded and what the legal attitudes of the time were towards madness. Learning about the role early forensic science played in the case was also illuminating.
Because this was kindle single was so short and fascinating, I found myself wanting more elaboration and more details of the case but it was still a great way to pass half an hour. Recommended for a reader who wants a quick article-style read.
mfred's review
4.0
The true story of the arrest of the child killing cannibal Albert Fish. Really compelling, interesting stuff. Blum manages to build suspense without delving too grossly into the horrific details of the crimes
anrobe's review
4.0
Quick read - somewhere between a longform essay and a novella. Easy and quick to read. Liked the length and felt that it explored quite a bit about this case and the history of the insanity defense. Very disturbing content but if you can stomach the content, it's a fascinating look into a very disturbing case!
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