Son of Sam by Lawrence D. Klausner (1981), McGraw-Hill, True Crime Hardcover

A Chilling Chronicle of a Notorious American Killer

David Berkowitz—known to the world as the Son of Sam—shattered the illusion of safety in New York during the 1970s, prowling the streets and shooting young women seemingly at random. Son of Sam by Lawrence D. Klausner offers a riveting, investigative look into the case that terrorized a city and confounded the police.

This book isn’t just another true crime retelling—it draws directly from over 300 taped conversations with Berkowitz, his personal diaries, and police reports. Klausner delivers a nuanced, even-handed account of the killer’s psyche and the frantic effort to stop him. Readers are given rare access into how Berkowitz’s mental illness both masked and revealed his intentions, raising important questions about criminal responsibility.

Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or just curious about the case that defined a decade of fear, this book is a compelling, disturbing, and ultimately insightful read.

Specifications:

Title: Son of Sam
Author: Lawrence D. Klausner
Publication Date: 1981
Publisher: McGraw-Hill Book Company
Format: Hardcover with dust jacket
Genre: True Crime
Pages: 430
Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 2 inches
Language: English
Condition: Good used condition, minor wear on dust jacket as shown in photos

About the Author: Lawrence D. Klausner

Lawrence D. Klausner is an American journalist and writer who drew on his investigative background to create this comprehensive Son of Sam case account. His work balances meticulous research with narrative storytelling, capturing the fear, confusion, and eventual resolution of one of the 20th century’s most infamous crime sprees.

Why It Belongs on Your True Crime Shelf

This isn't just a history of the Son of Sam murders—it's a psychological study, a police procedural, and a haunting glimpse into the thin line between illness and evil. If you appreciate complex criminal cases and methodical reporting, Son of Sam will stay with you long after the last page.

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