Who Killed Christopher Goodman?

Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 12, 2017

Review

This story is based on a true-life crime in the author’s hometown. Instead of focusing on the murder, the actual focal point is on a group of teenagers trying to come to terms with the murder of a classmate. Set in a small town in Virginia in 1979, Christopher Goodman is a friendly, easygoing Senior. Much of the book is spent during the weeks before the annual community celebration of Deadwood Days. The reader meets Goodman through the multi-voice chapters of his classmates, one of whom is his murderer. Readers become familiar with the hopes, dreams, and friendships, and allows them to relate to the guilt each one feels after the murder since each person feels like they could have done something differently to prevent it. There are a few references to 1970s culture, such as the Dukes of Hazzard and tv dinners. Readers may note that some of the language used by the teenagers seems quaint, but overall the unfolding of the murder will keep readers turning the page. The author’s note at the end connects the actual crime with the fictional account providing insight into the characters and the murder. Mystery and true crime readers will be sure to enjoy this book.

Overall Book Score: very good