From The 911 Files: True Crime Confessions From Behind The Phone

by Jackson Anhalt, Miranda Levi (Editor)

From the 911 Files takes you behind the scenes of a 911 communications center, where real-life emergency calls come in from people in distress. You’ll read about the actual calls, and experience the reactions of real first responders as they work to save lives and keep the community safe.

In these pages, you'll encounter everything from medical emergencies and car chases to murders and crimes of passion. You’ll also witness some of the lighter moments that help these dedicated professionals get through their toughest days.

Written for layman, From the 911 Files is a true crime book that explores the grittier side of life and the resilience of those who work in the public safety field. You'll find themes of perseverance and dark humor woven throughout, and you'll come away with a deep appreciation for the men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe.

Inspired by true crime stories, this book is perfect for fans of anyone who loves a good mystery, is curious about what happens when you call 911, or has a love of true crime. If you're ready for a glimpse into the high-stakes world of emergency services, pick up your copy of From the 911 Files today.

Praise for From The 911 Files

“Told in the honest, dry wit of someone who has been there, From the 911 Files is an eye-opening look behind the scenes at the people we depend upon to answer our emergency calls. The story within is captivating and well-written, making the audience a part of the action as we delve into what it means to be a dispatcher in today's chaotic world. Full of heart, gritty truth, and enough humor to soften the blow, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to see the reality faced by the heroes we look to in our darkest hour.”
— Cheree Alsop, best selling author of the Werewolf Academy series.

“An absolute page turner, if you're ready for a glimpse into the high-stakes world of emergency services, this is the book. From beginning to end, it had me. It’s so much more than 911 Dispatching, it’s the heart of why some folk wake up every day and face the worst of humanity. Anhalt champion’s dark humor and the compassion it takes to be a 911 Dispatcher. I couldn’t put it down.”
— Miranda Levi, award winning author of From A Youth A Fountain Did Flow & A Tear In Time

Genres: Nonfiction, Humor, True Crime

304 pages, Paperback

Published May 29, 2023

Reviews

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book in two days, and would have finished it in one if I could! Obviously the drama of 911 calls is a gripping premise, but From the 911 Files includes more than just drama. The narrator, speaking from his real-life experiences, interjects his own brand of humor and optimism, while providing the reader with valuable and detailed information about the dispatch process. (Don't worry about all the first responder acronyms, there are footnotes!) Each chapter is organized by a theme (such as fire calls, aviation and UFOs, animal calls, etc.), which provides structure to the narrative while also introducing the characters and drama in the dispatch center itself. Anhalt's sarcasm, dark sense of humor, talent for storytelling, and heartwarming commitment to public service make this a page turner. I walked away from this book with a smile and newfound knowledge about 911 calls, and immediately sat my 3 year old down and drilled her until she learned her home address. This book deserves a tv or movie deal! READ IT!

[Saskia Veldhuis · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Really interesting reading and good explanations about how the dispatchers in the US really work. A great balance in humorous or dramatic stories, working with colleagues in a high stress environment and seeing how absolutely ridiculous the expectations of some callers are. Very enjoyable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am happy to leave a voluntary review.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I really want a series of these stories. People do some of the strangest things, especially in a moment of panic. I think part of the drama of these stories that gets me, is I know they are true and not just something written to entertain, although they certainly are entertaining. The soties are delivered with a lighter touch and the author’s own unique sense of humor. The narration was excellent.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Hanna Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too often people underestimate the trauma and horrific things 911 operators listen to and help people in. That phone call being made could be the last call of someone's life or they could be admitting to a horrific crime, which was the case in some of the stories. Very powerful!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book features the beginning of 911 calls followed by the events in the call handlers' office. The book is in prose form. Some of the calls are devastating while others are ridiculous. There is some light-heartedness and moments of reflection throughout the book.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great to listen to it's almost like a podcast. This has a lot of funny stories or sidelines. Some are very serious others more light hearted. It definitely gives you a great look at what a 911 operator deals with. The good, the bad and the ugly. I really enjoyed this behind the scenes.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

Great book! The author tells of his experiences as a 911 dispatch in such a real way, just like if you were his friend and he was telling you about it. The stories were funny and interesting. You also learn a lot you don't know about 911 center. It is not like they show on TV, its a lot more difficult.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read for fans of true crime. It compiles a series of stories from the author's experience as a 911 dispatcher. There are stories that made me laugh, cry, and a few that had me holding my breath hoping for the best. I loved this book.

[Jackie Gray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Funny and informative. Lost its structure towards the end, but still a good time. We got a potentially accidental cliffhanger about a person named Becky and I really want to know how things resolved there!

[Marwa Ghazy]

May 2024

[Miranda Levi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly one of the best nonfiction books I've had the pleasure of reading. It's real, and raw, and offers a glimpse into the world of the men and women who answer the phone on our worst days. 10/10