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My Friend Dahmer

Nonfiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Derf Backderf

My Friend Dahmer

Nonfiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Ohio • 1970s-1980s

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf is a graphic memoir depicting the author's high school experience with Jeffrey Dahmer, who later became a notorious serial killer. The novel recounts Dahmer's troubled home life, disturbing behaviors, and increasingly isolated existence, culminating in his first murder shortly after graduation. The story reflects on missed opportunities for intervention that might have prevented his later crimes. This book features depictions of violence and murder.

Dark

Unnerving

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.3

33,921 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf offers a chilling, empathetic look at the high school years of notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. The graphic novel is lauded for its unique perspective and detailed, evocative illustrations. Some readers note the unsettling nature of the content, but others appreciate its insightful examination of the factors leading to Dahmer's monstrous actions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read My Friend Dahmer?

Readers who enjoy riveting true crime narratives and graphic novels will appreciate My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf. Fans of works like In Cold Blood by Truman Capote and Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi will find its blend of dark biography and visual storytelling compelling. This book appeals to those fascinated by psychological studies and true crime.

4.3

33,921 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Ohio • 1970s-1980s

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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