54 pages • 1 hour read
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416
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2000s
2014
Adult
18+ years
A Deadly Wandering by Matt Richtel investigates the dangers of distracted driving through the tragic story of a 2006 Utah car accident where teenager Reggie Shaw, while texting and driving, caused the deaths of two scientists, intertwining this narrative with research on attention and the impact of technology on cognitive function.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Unnerving
4,114 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Matt Richtel's A Deadly Wandering is praised for its compelling narrative and in-depth exploration of the dangers of distracted driving, blending a tragic true story with scientific insights. However, some critics feel the pacing drags at times and that it includes excessive technical detail. Overall, it's an enlightening read with significant real-world implications.
A reader who would enjoy A Deadly Wandering by Matt Richtel is typically interested in technology's impact on human behavior, neuroscience, and public policy. Fans of Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point and Nicholas Carr's The Shallows would find this a compelling read due to its investigation of distracted driving, cognitive science, and societal implications.
4,114 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jim Furfaro & Keith O’Dell
Two rocket scientists who worked at ATK Systems; they were victims of a fatal accident caused by distracted driving.
Terryl Warner
A victims advocate in the Cache County attorney's office who becomes involved in the case due to her connection to one of the victims and her commitment to seeking justice.
Bart Rindlisbacher
A Utah state trooper with a reputation for persistence, who investigates the accident scene and pursues the case against Reggie Shaw.
Dr. Adam Gazzaley
A cognitive neuroscientist recognized for his research on attention, who collaborates on projects aiming to enhance cognitive capacity related to distracted driving.
Jackie Furfaro
The widow of Jim Furfaro and mother to their daughters, who later finds forgiveness for Reggie Shaw and moves forward with her life.
Don Linton
Chief deputy county attorney who leads the prosecution in Reggie Shaw's case, motivated by his past experiences to empathize with the defendant.
Jon Bunderson
Reggie Shaw’s defense attorney who navigates the legal challenges and secures a plea agreement for his client.
Leila & Megan O’Dell
The wife and daughter of Keith O’Dell, who seek justice and keep in contact with investigators, impacted deeply by the consequences of the accident.
Dr. David Strayer
A neuroscientist specializing in attention and distraction, his testimony about the dangers of texting and driving becomes crucial in the case.
416
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2000s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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