Girl in a Box

by John A. Lester

A TV news reporter's account of the kidnapping of Patricia Hearst by the Symbionese Liberation Amy, February 4, 1974, a villainous act that brought a distinguished family to its knees and turned a nation upside-down. John Lester was the "family spokesman," was privileged to be in the midst of this tragic event for six months. This is the untold story of the "other victims" of the kidnap case, one family and their girl in a box.

Genres: True Crime

265 pages, Paperback

First published December 10, 2004

About the author

I’m a rare breed – a California native. I earned a B.S. at Santa Clara University in ’57, majored in English Literature and Philosophy. The Jesuit fathers were great. Had a fleeting thought of being one; a blonde twig changed my mind. Found a notch in broadcasting in The Bay Area. Owned an advertising agency with my name on it. Won a CLEO for a winery. Acted on stage, TV and movies. (Catch me at the beginning of MAGNUM FORCE.) Dues paying member of SAG since ’58. If you’re hiring, I can play an older person. I have three adult children and a grandson; none are in jail. I was married just once but she grew to hate me. I’m single and I’m happy every day. Gray is my favorite color and I’m a pretty good Catholic.

Reviews

[James Giunta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent chronicle of a very tense moment in American history, written by a highly accomplished journalist as the events unfolded. Highly recommended for the story, the writing, and a few footnotes included to round out the piece.

[Mary Virginia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping for more

The first 75% of this book is just a reprinting of the authors journals...including scads of irrelevant information like baseball scores. There is no attempt at weaving a story or any analysis. Then, it ends. 6 months into Patty's captivity and it ends. The author just says, there was a trial, she was found guilty and released. EXTREMELY unsatisfying. And don't get me started on the grammatical errors, the editor (if there was one) should be shot.

[Fred Neil · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good account of Patricia Hearst Kidnapping from an insider

Good book from an insider's perspective. I chose to read because I grew up with the authors son and was close to his this impacted the family. Was curious to read the account from John Lester the author.