Cover image for The killer of little shepherds : a true crime story and the birth of forensic scienceThe Killer of Little Shepherds by Douglas P. Starr

Reviewed by: Sarah Baker, Circulation

Genre: Non-Fiction, True Crime

Suggested Age: Adults

What is the book about?: At the end of the nineteenth century, a killer stalked France.  Yes, all of it.  His name was Joseph Vacher, a former soldier and patient of 2 different mental asylums. In his wanderings as a vagabond he killed at least eleven people in locations all around the country.  His favorite targets were young shepherds, isolated and helpless.  His attacks were violent and brutal. During this same time, the new fields of forensic science and psychology were developing at a rapid pace.   Dr. Alexandre Lacassagne, the preeminent head of forensics in France, was investigating more accurate and thorough methods for autopsy and for determining the age and physical aspects of unknown corpses.  Methods for tracking repeat offenders were being developed, as were set procedures for crime scenes.  The causes of criminality (nature vs nurture, the “inherent criminality” determined by physical traits, and even mental illness) were being put under the microscope as well. These worlds were brought together after Vacher was caught, and the full weight of scientific evidence was used to determine his guilt, and his competence to stand trial.

My Review: This was eye-opening.  I knew that forensic science had to begin sometime, and Starr did a great job showcasing its beginnings and the obstacles it had to overcome.  This book also raised the question of how one could determine sanity, especially in light of apparent sane-ness and or episodic madness.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Engrossing, Intriguing, Informative

Give This a Try if You Like…  CSI, Sherlock Holmes

Rating: 4/5

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About FDL Reads

FDL ReadsWelcome to FDL Reads, weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.  Librarians (and possibly some other guest reviewers) review all types of books, from children’s picture books, young adult favorites, to the latest adult thriller, and share their thoughts each week at fondulaclibrary.org. If the book is owned by Fondulac District Library (or another local library), you’ll see a direct link to the catalog entry and whether or not it is available.  If it is checked out or at another local library, you will be able to place a hold as long as you have your library card and PIN numbers. As with any book review, these are our opinions…we disagree amongst ourselves about books frequently.  We all have different likes and dislikes, which is what makes the world an interesting place. Please enjoy, and keep on reading!