The Anatomy of Motive: The FBI's Legendary Mindhunter Explores the Key to Understanding and Catching Violent Criminals

I am in a criminal justice program and I also profile for a hobby. This was such an interesting book that it helped in class during our discussions. Hats off for the people a Quantico you have a very cruling job and interesting all in one. I wish I had gotton into this years ago but as it stands I did not. I want to go to Virginia some day just to have my picture taken with me on the outside of the building. I wanted to know how to tell what makes criminal tick and why they do what they do, I got part of my answer and I will be purchasing alot in the future. It is always a good deal to know how to read someone. I have also applied to CASA and this will help I am sure. Maybe if you get to people before they snap then maybe we can cut down on some of these crimes. Thank You I enjoyed it very much! Paula Zion

This book mainly focuses on the important role that profilers play in tracking down criminals and serial killers by examining the processes involved in examining their minds. Using genuine criminal cases the authors lift the lid on what goes on in a criminal's mind, and one relevant point made is that it's a myth that violence on T.V serves as a motive to go out and kill someone, with evidence to prove the point. Various types of crimes are put under the microscope, from mass killings to arson and bombings. I found this to be a truly interesting book and it helped me to understand why criminals behave in the way that they do. If you have an interest in studying the art of criminal profiling, then this is for you.

a classic for true crime fans

I enjoy the facts when reading books by John Douglas. I do have a hard time with the excessive focus on himself. The fact that his office was on a certain floor or that he was the one who stayed the latest to work on a case does not seem relevent. His ego takes away from learning about motive and forensic psychology. I own most of his books and use them for research but it is hard to search through all of the personal information to find the facts that I am looking for.

I work as a civilian in the field of law enforcement and teach individuals in training. An important aspect of preparing to become a warrior in this field is understanding the importance of mental management. Frequently it is necessary to "get into the head" of the bad guy in order to be digilent in prevention. The Anatomy of Motive can provide insight into the "why" of particular crimes.Although I found this book to be dry and more of a declaration of the authors' expertise, the material was presented in a straight forward manner making it an easy read. It does, however, lack the "literary hook" authors frequently use to grab the reader's attention and hold it. I would recommend this book to anyone trying to understand the criminal mind.