Just got through reading “Columbine” by David Cullen and it is a must-read if you work with adolescents/boys. The two biggest take home points from the book in my opinion are:
1) the media completely glossed over the fact that the original plan was to detonate propane tank bombs that would have wiped out almost half the school. The boys then planned to shoot survivors as they fled the school. The original plan was not to go into the school and target individual students to shoot.
2) Eric Harris was a textbook psychopath. He was NOT a member of the trenchcoat mafia, did not like Marilyn Manson and was not a “goth.” His case does NOT prove that any disaffected teen who is bullied for being different can decide to go on a killing rampage. His past actions, personal diaries, website and personality profile are all indicative of a dangerous psychopath.
Overall, the book is very well-written and gripping. My one complaint is that the author switches from providing an analysis of the killers to telling the stories of the survivors, which can impact the continuity. There is much to learn from this book and Mr. Cullen should be congratulated for a job well done.