logo

78 pages 2 hours read

Columbine

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2009

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Dave Cullen

Columbine

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

496

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Littleton, Colorado • 1990s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Dave Cullen's nonfiction book, Columbine (2009), chronicles the mass shooting at Colorado’s Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, by seniors Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, who killed thirteen people and injured two dozen before taking their own lives. The book, spanning multiple timelines, delves into the shooters' backgrounds, the victims and their families, law enforcement, media portrayals, community reactions, and examines the misinformation and cover-up that followed the attack. Includes discussions of violence and trauma.

Informative

Dark

Unnerving

Mysterious

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

101,407 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Dave Cullen's Columbine is widely praised for its meticulous research and nuanced exploration of the infamous school shooting. Reviewers commend Cullen's in-depth analysis and empathetic storytelling. However, some criticize its extensive detail, which can be overwhelming. Overall, it's a compelling, if exhaustive, dissection of a tragic event.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Columbine?

Readers fascinated by true crime, psychological analysis, and modern history will find Columbine by Dave Cullen gripping. Fans of In Cold Blood by Truman Capote or Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi will appreciate Cullen’s meticulous research and narrative skill. This book appeals to those seeking deeper understanding of tragic events and their impact.

4.4

101,407 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Eric Harris

One of the two perpetrators of the Columbine High School attack, described as charming and intelligent with a strong disdain for society. Known for his nickname "Reb" and a military family background, he had a significant influence on the planning of the attack.

The second perpetrator in the Columbine attack, known for his height and distinctive curls, described as depressive and conflicted. He had been accepted to the University of Arizona, reflecting his potential future plans outside of the attack.

Eric Harris's parents, with Wayne working for the military and described as a stern disciplinarian. They maintain a private life post-attack and do not engage with the press.

Dylan Klebold's parents, with Tom having a background in oil and property management and Sue working in the community college system. They were reportedly shocked by Dylan's involvement in the attack.

Principal of Columbine High School during and after the attack, known for his commitment to students. He introduced surveillance cameras for cafeteria cleanup and struggled with PTSD after the event.

FBI agent and clinical psychologist involved in the Columbine investigation, arriving quickly due to his son attending the school. He helped clarify the attackers' motives and individual psychological profiles.

A teacher at Columbine High School described for his heroic efforts during the attack. His actions during the event provided safety for many students.

A student killed during the Columbine attack, she received significant posthumous media attention. Known for her Evangelical faith and initially mistaken narrative of martyrdom.

A student gravely injured during the attack, famous for his escape from a library window. He later graduated as valedictorian and pursued further studies.

The Jefferson County Sheriff during the Columbine attack, criticized for his handling and misinformation in the aftermath. He faced community discontent but stayed in office until the end of his term.

The officer who responded to threats made by Eric Harris against Brooks Brown before the attack. His investigative work was later scrutinized in light of the attack.

A student who had a complex relationship with Eric Harris, both as a friend and enemy. Notably warned by Harris to leave school before the attack.

A close friend of Harris and Klebold, especially with Dylan, who was unaware of the attack plans. His relationship with Harris deteriorated before their senior year.

A friend of Harris and Klebold who assisted in acquiring guns used in the attack. Known for her distinctive appearance and Christian faith.

A friend who was initially approached by Harris to participate in the attack. He provided information on the perpetrators’ attempts to acquire firearms.

The intermediary who connected Mark Manes with Harris and Klebold for acquiring a firearm used in the attack.

The seller of the TEC-9 firearm used by Klebold in the attack, facilitated through Phil Duran.

Book Details
Pages

496

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Littleton, Colorado • 1990s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.