Dave Cullen’s Columbine is a bold yet respectful look at the events that occurred on April 20, 1999. The approach Cullen took was unique, he could have discussed the few days before and after the massacre. Instead he explores months before and after. Doing this cleared common misconceptions about the shooters, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold weren’t bullied, weren’t outcasts, and weren’t triggered a few days before the shooting. But because Cullen took years investigating, rewatching basement tapes, reading journals, interviewing, and building a solid conclusion to the tragedy. What makes Columbine different is how it follows a handful of those impacted. As stated on Cullen’s personal website, he chose those with a powerful story such as the Christian martyr Rachel Scott. Columbine is insightful and informative but keeps it at the can’t-stop-reading stage.
As much praise as Columbine has received, it has one noticeable flaw. While reading the book I personally struggled with the chronology. Throughout the book he jumps to and from before, after, and during the shooting making it at times confusing if the reader isn’t paying close attention to time. However, once over that hill Columbine is a book I think most people should read. Whether you’re in high school or mid life Columbine can help give perspective and clear misconceptions on a very important and historical tragedy.