Posted by If you’re looking for an intriguing and exciting genre of books to read, you can’t go wrong with criminology. There are free criminology books you would love, whether you’re interested in true crime, mystery novels, or even thrillers.
According to the Statista Research Department of the United States, crime fiction and thrillers always rank among the most popular genres of books, with over 50% of respondents saying that they have read a crime novel.
Also, the FBI’s website states that crime novels and true crime stories are some of the most popular forms of entertainment, with sales of true crime books rising steadily in recent years.
With all this excitement around it, it’s no longer news why there are so many great free options of criminology books for you.
To help you find the best one, we’ve compiled a list of free criminology books that you’ll love. Let’s start with an in-depth knowledge of the study of crimes.
What’s Criminology?
Criminology is the study of crime and its causes. It’s a field that examines crime from multiple perspectives, including psychology, sociology, and the law.
Criminologists seek to understand why people commit crimes and how to prevent them. This includes studying the characteristics of criminals, the social and environmental factors that contribute to crime, and the effectiveness of various criminal justice policies and programs.
Reasons Why You Need to Read Books on Criminology
The following are some of the reasons why you should read criminology books:
- You’ll learn about the roots of crime and how to prevent it
- The books help you gain a deeper understanding of human behavior
- You’ll gain insight into the criminal justice system
- They help you learn about the impact of crime on victims and society
- You’ll be able to understand current events better.
You’ll Learn About the Roots of Crime And How to Prevent it
Reading about the roots of crime can help you understand what causes people to commit crimes in the first place.
This knowledge can help you come up with ways to prevent crime, such as addressing poverty, mental health issues, and other risk factors.
The Books Help You Gain a Deeper Understanding of Human Behavior
Criminology books are often focused on human behavior, and by reading them you can gain a better understanding of why people commit crimes and how to address these issues.
For example, a book on forensic psychology might help you understand how to interview a criminal, or a book on juvenile delinquency might help you understand why some young people turn to crime.
You’ll Gain Insight Into The Criminal Justice System
Books on criminology can help you understand the criminal justice system, including how it works and how it can be improved.
You might read a book about criminal sentencing, which can help you understand how different approaches to sentencing can impact recidivism rates.
They Help You Learn About The Impact of Crime on Victims And Society
Criminology books often include research and stories about the impact of crime on victims and society. This can include the physical and psychological effects of crime, as well as the financial and societal costs.
For example, studies have shown that victims of crime often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and that the costs of crime can be enormous, with billions of dollars spent each year on crime-related expenses.
You’ll Be Able to Understand Current Events Better
Many current events, such as high-profile crimes, political scandals, and terrorist attacks, can be better understood with knowledge of criminology.
For example, after the terrorist attacks of 9/11, many criminologists were able to explain how these attacks fit into a larger pattern of terrorism, and how they could have been prevented.
Similarly, after mass shootings, criminologists can explain the psychology of the perpetrators and how to prevent future attacks.
List of 15 Free Criminology Books You Would Love
The following are some exciting criminology books you can read for free:
- In Cold Blood, by Truman Capote
- The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule
- Invisible Darkness by Stephen Williams
- The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
- I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
- The Death Instinct by Jed Rubenfeld
- Lethal Intent by Sandra Brown
- The True Story of Jack the Ripper, by Philip Sugden
- A Father’s Story by Lionel Dahmer
- The Cases That Haunt Us by John Douglas
- Mindhunter, by John Douglas and Mark Olshaker
- Criminology, by Stephen E. Brown
- Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
- Criminal Minds by Richard Walter and Mark Olshaker.
Overview of the Cost-Free Criminology Books That You Would Love
In Cold Blood, by Truman Capote
- Year Published: 1965
Description
In Cold Blood is a true crime classic, and it’s often considered the first nonfiction novel. It tells the story of the 1959 murder of a Kansas family and the subsequent search for and capture of the killers.
Truman Capote spent years researching and writing the book, interviewing the people involved, and delving into the history and psychology of the murderers.
The book is a masterpiece of journalism and storytelling, and it’s one of the most influential true crime books ever written.
The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule
- Year Published: 1980
Description
The Stranger Beside Me is another true crime classic about a close friend of Ted Bundy, a notorious serial killer, and she used her unique perspective to craft a gripping and disturbing account of his crimes.
This book has been praised for its insight into the mind of a serial killer and for its ability to humanize the victims and their families.
It’s an important and thought-provoking work, and it’s sure to stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Invisible Darkness by Stephen Williams
- Year Published: 1996
Description
This is a fascinating book that explores the mind of Gary Ridgway, the Green River Killer. Stephen Williams is a forensic psychologist, and he uses his expertise to examine the psychology of this notorious serial killer.
He also looks at the role that trauma and abuse can play in the development of a criminal mind. This is a compelling and thought-provoking book that will give you a new perspective on serial killers and crime.
The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
- Year Published: 2003
Description
In this book, Larson tells the story of H. H. Holmes, a serial killer who used the fair to lure his victims to their deaths.
It’s a fascinating and chilling book that weaves together two very different stories. Larson’s ability to bring history to life makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in crime and the darker side of human nature.
I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
- Year Published: 2018
Description
Michelle McNamara was a true crime writer who became obsessed with this case, and she spent years researching and writing about it.
She passed away before the book was finished, but her husband, actor Patton Oswalt, saw it through to publication.
This is a powerful and heartbreaking book that will leave you thinking about the victims and the toll that crime can take on everyone involved.
The Death Instinct by Jed Rubenfeld
- Year Published: 2010
Description
The Death Instinct is the story of Stratham Younger, a New York City lawyer who gets drawn into a case involving murder, corruption, and the dark world of Sigmund Freud.
This is a gripping and suspenseful book that also explores the early days of psychoanalysis. Jed Rubenfeld is a talented writer who weaves together history, mystery, and psychology in this unique novel.
Lethal Intent by Sandra Brown
- Year Published: 2011
Description
Known as the master of romantic suspense, Sandra Brown tells the story of Dani, a TV reporter who is pulled into a case involving murder and big pharma.
As she gets closer to the truth, she finds herself in danger and must rely on her instincts and resourcefulness to stay alive.
The True Story of Jack the Ripper, by Philip Sugden
- Year Published: 1994
Description
If you’re interested in the gruesome true story of Jack the Ripper, then you have it in this book. Philip Sugden is a meticulous and thorough researcher, and he presents all of the known facts about the case, as well as some of the more outlandish theories.
He provides an analysis of each theory and explains why some are more likely than others. This is a fascinating and informative read for anyone interested in one of the most famous unsolved crimes in history.
A Father’s Story by Lionel Dahmer
- Year Published: 1994
Description
A Father’s Story is a heartbreaking memoir by Lionel Dahmer, the father of notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
Lionel Dahmer offers a unique perspective on his son’s life and crimes, and he explores the factors that may have contributed to his son’s horrific actions.
This is an emotional and thought-provoking read that will leave you wondering about the nature of evil and the role of parents in their children’s lives.
The Cases That Haunt Us by John Douglas
- Year Published: 2000
Description
In this book, Douglas uses his expertise to look at some of the most notorious unsolved cases, including Jack the Ripper and the Black Dahlia murder.
He explains how he would approach these cases if he were still an active profiler, and he provides insight into the minds of the killers.
This is a must-read for true crime fans and anyone interested in the art of criminal profiling.
Mindhunter, by John Douglas and Mark Olshaker
- Year Published: 1995
Description
Mindhunter is another book by John Douglas, this time co-written with Mark Olshaker. This book is the basis for the popular Netflix series of the same name.
It tells the story of how Douglas developed the field of criminal profiling, and it details some of his most famous cases.
It’s an engrossing and informative read, and it’s a great companion to Douglas’ other books.
Criminology, by Stephen E. Brown
- Year Published: 2015
Description
In this book, the prime suspect was their adopted son, Jeremy Bamber. But was he guilty, or was he being framed?
This book delves into the details of the case and the subsequent trial, and it raises questions about the justice system and how we decide who is guilty.
Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi
- Year Published: 1974
Description
Helter Skelter is perhaps the most famous book about the Manson Family murders. The book is meticulously researched and well-written, and it provides a fascinating look into the minds of the killers.
It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s a must-read for anyone interested in this infamous case.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
- Year Published: 2005
Description
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the first book in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium trilogy. This book is about Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled hacker, and Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist hired to solve a cold case.
The book is suspenseful and engaging, and it’s full of twists and turns. Lisbeth is a complex and fascinating character, and the book raises important questions about justice and the treatment of women.
Criminal Minds by Richard Walter and Mark Olshaker
- Year Published: 1992
Description
Criminal Minds is another book by Mark Olshaker, this time with Richard Walter. Walter is a forensic psychiatrist, and in this book, he explores the minds of serial killers and other violent criminals.
It’s a chilling but fascinating read, and it offers insight into how these individuals think and why they commit such terrible crimes.
FAQs on Free Criminology Books
Can you read criminology books for free online?
Yes, several websites offer free access to digital copies of criminology books. These include websites like OpenStax and Open Library, which have a wide selection of free e-books in various subject areas, including criminology. Several online resources provide access to open-access journals, which publish peer-reviewed articles on criminology and related fields. So if you're looking for free reading material on criminology, you have plenty of options.
Are the free criminology books available in different formats, like PDF or EPUB?
Yes, many of the free criminology books available online are available in multiple formats, including PDF, EPUB, and MOBI. This makes them accessible to a wide range of readers, regardless of the type of device they're using. Some websites also offer the option to download the books in a text-only format, which is useful for people with visual impairments or other accessibility needs. Additionally, many websites allow users to customize the font size and color, making the books easier to read for people with dyslexia or other reading difficulties.
Are the free criminology books available in other languages?
Yes, many of the free criminology books available online are also available in other languages. OpenStax, for example, has some books available in Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Other websites, such as Project Gutenberg, have a large selection of books available in German, Russian, and other languages. So if you're looking for free books in a specific language, it's worth checking out these websites to see what's available.
Are the free criminology books well-written and accurate?
While the quality of free books can vary, there are several well-written and accurate free criminology books available online. Many of these books are published by reputable publishers, and they're written by experts in the field.
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Conclusion
There are a variety of free criminology books available online in a range of formats and languages.
While it’s important to use critical thinking when reading any book, the availability of high-quality free resources makes it easier than ever to learn about the field of criminology.
Whether you’re interested in the psychology of crime or the history of crime prevention, there’s sure to be a free book that’s right for you.