Danny Rolling (1954–2006)

This is probably one of the most bizarre books I've ever read. The subject has interested me because it all happened so close to home & there was a giant media circus. In addition, the killer was captured in the woods across from the apartment where I'd come to live soon after all this happened.

I have read the book, "The Gainesville Ripper," but Rolling discounts much of the book, calling it fabrication. This book is reportedly the only true account, but you have to decide for yourself show more whether you can believe the words of a serial killer.

We learn a lot in this book about Rolling's childhood. If these stories are true, it's no wonder he turned out the way he did. That's no excuse for the burglaries & rapes & murders, but it does explain why he became so dark and evil.

The book had an appendix that offers some tips to people to stay safe. I think I'm going to copy it down & stick it on every wall in the house for my teenage daughter to see. She's the age these girls were who were killed at the hands of Danny Rolling in August, 1990. At the time of the murders, I was their age. That's probably another reason all this is so fascinating to me.

The book is filled with artwork & poetry & songs all created by Danny Rolling. I can't say the guy would have been something if he had been raised in a different environment, but he surely had impressive talent and I am impressed by some of his work. show less