"The Strange Case of Dr. H.H. Holmes" contains three fully illustrated,
unabridged primary source books, plus Holmes' published confession as
originally documented shortly before his execution. For the first time in
over a century, these materials are again available - and all in one book.
HOLMES' OWN STORY by Herman W. Mudgett - 1895
In this autobiography, Holmes recounts his childhood years, and life's
trials and tribulations.
THE HOLMES-PITEZEL CASE by Detective Frank Geyer - 1896
Included are rare court transcripts, expert
witness testimony, and in-depth criminal and legal detection methods
utilized in the trial against Holmes.
THE HOLMES CASTLE by Robert Corbitt - 1895
Robert Corbitt entered the Holmes "castle" when the investigation into the
horrors first began. Learn what made Corbitt believe that Holmes was
innocent.
THE CONFESSION OF H.H. HOLMES - 1896
Holmes gives the media what they want...a confession.
UNABRIDGED - ILLUSTRATED
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By John Borowski
Oct 15, 2009
"A Must-Have" Reviewed by Dark Realms Magazine, April, 2006. Posted by John Borowski.This book follows the release of John Borowski’s acclaimed film H.H. Holmes: America’s First Serial Killer, and contains several historical accounts of the mass-murderer who plagued Chicago while Jack the Ripper stalked London. Whereas the Ripper’s identity and motives remain a mystery to this day, The Strange Case of H.H. Holmes allows us a detailed look into the mind of a mass-murderer. The book is divided into four parts. In the first part, Holmes’ Own Story, penned while in prison awaiting trial, he vividly describes his schemes and offers reasonable excuses for his claim of innocence. The Holmes-Pitezel Case by Detective Frank Geyer covers the events leading to Holmes’ arrest for fraud, the exhaustive investigation which led to the discovery of even more heinous crimes, and Holmes’ trial and conviction. The Confession of H.H. Holmes wraps things up with the killer likening himself to... More > the Devil and coldly describing the deaths of 27 people, while The Holmes Castle offers a tour of the house of horrors where many poor souls met grisly ends. In the words of the judge who presided over Holmes’ trial, “Truth is stranger than fiction.” As each perspective is presented and layer upon layer of deception is peeled away, an awful truth becomes evident, and with that the horror finally sinks in - this really happened! This is a fascinating and chilling tale, and a must-have for fans of true crime stories.< Less
"H.H. Holmes" I have always been fascinated by true crime since I was in High School. I have never heard about H.H. Holmes until I was reading in the paper about the documentary playing in a local theatre from the John Borowski. I am glad I went. I have since bought the book and enjoyed it very much. It starts with Holmes own story where Holmes tries to paint himself as a normal guy. I am not familiar with the legal system at that time, but I suspect this was done to possibly taint the jury pool. The second section is features the closing statements from the prosecution, as well as the account of Det. Geyer. He was able to accomplish his goal by painstakingly retracing the steps of Holmes outside of Philadelphia. Back then there was no FBI so much credit was due to that city for financing such an enormous task. This section also features the decision of the Supreme Court with their reasons not to overturn the verdict. The third section is Holmes true confession to the... More > taking of 27 lives. FBI statistics state that often times the number of victims they were caught with is often only a small portion of how many there really are. Although these days with more knowledge on the subject and better tools at the disposal of law enforcement, not to mention the vigilence of society today due to terrorism. It is not likely that someone like Holmes could exist like this today. The fourth installment has a detailed blueprint of "the Castle". Although I must admit it is not good as something would be to today's standards. Overall I have enjoyed this book and intend to lend it to friends. If able I would encourage you to read it before watching the dvd.< Less
