This is a book containing a brief snapshot, most only one or two pages, of some of the most famous crimes in American history. There is no in depth coverage of the crimes. For instance the case of the murder of Nicole Simpson's murder is two pages and there must be twenty plus full length books written on that case alone. Instead the strength of the book is what Life magazine does so well, the pictures. The photographs are beautifully done as well as thought provoking. In the OJ case, there is a picture of Nicole and OJ that was taken five years before they were ever married. They both look so beautiful and in love that is hard to believe from looking at the photo how the love story would end. Another memorable photo is one taken of Ted Bundy from the floor looking up into his face. It was just how his victims would have seen him as he was over them killing them. Chilling. The few crime scenes that are presented here are not gory at all and are as tastefully presented as possible. Murder is not the only crime covered here, robbery such as the one that took place at the Gardner art museum also is presented. This is a fun book to look through on an afternoon for the photos alone but for the already crime initiated there will be no new surprises. ( )

About: 50 American crimes are deemed the "most notorious" and are summarized with text and photos.

Review: A very nice piece of "fluff" reading. Each of the crimes are discussed in one to four pages of simple prose and liberal photos. Only the basic facts of the crimes are presented, so if you are looking for hard-hitting, in-depth coverage, you'd best pass this one by. It's a decent coffee table book, as it allows the reader to only read a bit at a time.

Grade: A- ( )