What do you think?
Rate this book
Kids Who Kill: Case 1: Joshua Phillips
"We taught our girls to pray every day. What we didn't know was that the devil himself had moved in right across the street." When Maddie Clifton returns to her house that afternoon to find golf balls, she has no idea when she meets her neighbor and friend, 14-year-old Josh Phillips, that he is going to kill her. Within minutes, Maddie Clifton is dead. After a week, a lingering, putrid smell is coming from under his waterbed. How is it possible neither of his parents notice the distinct smell of decomposing flesh? Who is the real Joshua Phillips? There is a dark side to this young teenager that shocks the community to the core. He is a burglar, a thief, a destroyer of property, a possible sexual deviant and a murderer. He pleads that Maddie's murder was a terrible mistake. But was it? There is a lot more to this macabre murder. The Kids who Kill series is written by the bestselling author and researcher, Kathryn McMaster. This nonfiction true crime series covers murder cases of young killers. If you enjoy books by Anne Rule, Jack Rosewood and Kathryn Casey you will enjoy this author's books. Kathryn McMaster specializes in true crime and unsolved murder cases while digging deep to explore the dark side of the human mind.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2018
260 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn McMaster
11 books51 followersKathryn graduated from the University of Natal, Durban in 1980 with a double degree in English Literature and Psychology. The following year she completed her teaching diploma, and later on a TESOL diploma through Trinity College, London to teach English to adults as a second language. For the majority of her working life she worked in Education, both in the classroom, and in management. She is a co-founder of www.onestopfiction.com a website for both authors and readers for free and discounted books.
Kathryn is a writer of true crime and true crime fact-fiction. Her earlier books written as true crime fact-fiction transport you to a different era. She crafts stories around murders in the USA or unsolved murders of the Victorian and Edwardian eras highlighting poor policing practices with a rudimentary knowledge of Forensic Science that allowed the guilty to walk free, and the innocent to hang.
Kathryn’s books are further enhanced by her in-depth knowledge and training in Psychology, Criminal Profiling and a partial Masters of Forensic Science (Investigation) which she draws on to analyze each crime in the Afterword.
She has long had a fascination with crime and the criminal mind, looking at the ‘why’ rather than the ‘how’.
Her first true crime book was as best seller and was entitled “Who Killed Little Johnny Gill?”
This book covers the shocking murder and mutilation of an eight-year old boy in Bradford, England. The murder was so heinous that it was thought, at one stage, to have been the work of Jack the Ripper.
Kathryn continues to write from her 200 year old stone farmhouse in the beautiful and wild Casentino Valley, Tuscany.
Kathryn is a writer of true crime and true crime fact-fiction. Her earlier books written as true crime fact-fiction transport you to a different era. She crafts stories around murders in the USA or unsolved murders of the Victorian and Edwardian eras highlighting poor policing practices with a rudimentary knowledge of Forensic Science that allowed the guilty to walk free, and the innocent to hang.
Kathryn’s books are further enhanced by her in-depth knowledge and training in Psychology, Criminal Profiling and a partial Masters of Forensic Science (Investigation) which she draws on to analyze each crime in the Afterword.
She has long had a fascination with crime and the criminal mind, looking at the ‘why’ rather than the ‘how’.
Her first true crime book was as best seller and was entitled “Who Killed Little Johnny Gill?”
This book covers the shocking murder and mutilation of an eight-year old boy in Bradford, England. The murder was so heinous that it was thought, at one stage, to have been the work of Jack the Ripper.
Kathryn continues to write from her 200 year old stone farmhouse in the beautiful and wild Casentino Valley, Tuscany.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 4, 2018
8-year-old Maddie Clifton disappears one afternoon. The community joins in searching for her. Seven days later, her body is found.
How she was killed and what the killer did to kill her, and how he kept her for a week is the stuff that nightmares are made of.
The killer joined the search .... he was questioned by the police ...he went to school every day. And thought almost everyone expressed disbelief, the author shows us the dark side of this juvenile killer .. the side that no one saw, especially his parents.
This is a well written account of the crime, how this killing affected the victim's family, the killer's family, an entire community. The author takes us to places we never want to be.
"Kids Who Kill: Joshua Phillips" is a page-turner even though there are times when one is afraid to turn the page. If you are a fan of true crime, you do not want to miss this one.
Many thanks to the author and TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for the digital copy of this true crime. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 6, 2019
Very interesting case, not so much the book.
Read like the author was doing a high school book report, not a book. And this would be a C paper, at that, being half-bulked up with multiple court transcripts. Little beyond the verneer of already known and published facts was scratched to reveal any depth to the case, and there was plenty to plumb given some effort.
For a reader totally unfamiliar with the case, this might suffice. But I think for a TC buff, particularly one already familiar with the facts of the crime (and that would be me) and who wants a deeper dive under the surface of the facts, this will likely read shallow (again, me).
There were and are aspects of this case that could have made for fascinating reading for an author more willing to put in the work.
Read like the author was doing a high school book report, not a book. And this would be a C paper, at that, being half-bulked up with multiple court transcripts. Little beyond the verneer of already known and published facts was scratched to reveal any depth to the case, and there was plenty to plumb given some effort.
For a reader totally unfamiliar with the case, this might suffice. But I think for a TC buff, particularly one already familiar with the facts of the crime (and that would be me) and who wants a deeper dive under the surface of the facts, this will likely read shallow (again, me).
There were and are aspects of this case that could have made for fascinating reading for an author more willing to put in the work.
October 20, 2018
I got this as a e book from the tbc review page on facebook. It was a good book to read. It's a shame that something like this happens. I feel bad for the people affected by it. It was a well written book.
November 9, 2018
Right or wrong, I have long been fascinated by people who kill others, primarily their motivations for doing so, and when it comes to children killing other children, that is a whole other level and something completely outside my comprehension.
I found this book an interesting account of the case where Josh Phillips kills his neighbour Maddie although his reasons for doing so still escape me. I guess some things will just never really be known.
It was really sad reading the chapter written by Josh's mother, that woman really went through the mill. Of course, this event also took its toll on Maddie's family in a major way and my heart really broke for all of them.
The only thing I found a bit dull was reading the verbatim summing up of the two lawyers. It made me realise, yet again, that lawyers use twice as many words as the rest of us to say the same things!
All in all, I really enjoyed the author's account of this case and I would be interested in reading more books by her.
4.5 stars from me!
I found this book an interesting account of the case where Josh Phillips kills his neighbour Maddie although his reasons for doing so still escape me. I guess some things will just never really be known.
It was really sad reading the chapter written by Josh's mother, that woman really went through the mill. Of course, this event also took its toll on Maddie's family in a major way and my heart really broke for all of them.
The only thing I found a bit dull was reading the verbatim summing up of the two lawyers. It made me realise, yet again, that lawyers use twice as many words as the rest of us to say the same things!
All in all, I really enjoyed the author's account of this case and I would be interested in reading more books by her.
4.5 stars from me!
October 29, 2018
Although I read a lot of thrillers and fiction stories, I also enjoy true crime books. This book is about the death of Maddie Clifton, an 8-year-old-girl who was murdered by her 14-year-old neighbour Joshua Phillips. The circumstances of Maggie's death are tragic and horrifying.
The book was well researched and the author presented the case in an unbiased and balanced view. However, I felt a lot of the accounts from court could have been presented or written in the author's own words rather than just court transcripts. Also, the book jumped back and forth and did not really have any chronological order so this was a bit confusing at times. I would have liked to have read more of the "why" Jousha Phillips did what he did and what drove him to it. There is speculation in the book, but I feel this could only be told by Joshua himself.
The book was well researched and the author presented the case in an unbiased and balanced view. However, I felt a lot of the accounts from court could have been presented or written in the author's own words rather than just court transcripts. Also, the book jumped back and forth and did not really have any chronological order so this was a bit confusing at times. I would have liked to have read more of the "why" Jousha Phillips did what he did and what drove him to it. There is speculation in the book, but I feel this could only be told by Joshua himself.
October 12, 2018
Kathryn's eye for detail and thorough research shines through in this book. The good news is that this is a must read for all fans of true crime books and the even better news is that this is the first in a series. She is fastidious in looking through testimony, police reports, and court transcripts to bring the case back to life. She also captures the chaotic upbringing and home life of the killer, the tragedy which strikes the community, and the horrendous impact of the crime on the girl's distraught family with startling clarity.
The book throws up many questions for me, such as why the body lay undiscovered for so long, why did Phillips kill, and how children who kill should be treated by the legal and judicial system. The facts are presented in such a straightforward manner it's easy to absorb them, but as in all cases involving the murder of innocent children, the case can be harrowing at times.
Well-written, wonderfully researched, and scrupulously factual, this book promises to be the first in an outstanding series. I, for one, will be reading them all.
The book throws up many questions for me, such as why the body lay undiscovered for so long, why did Phillips kill, and how children who kill should be treated by the legal and judicial system. The facts are presented in such a straightforward manner it's easy to absorb them, but as in all cases involving the murder of innocent children, the case can be harrowing at times.
Well-written, wonderfully researched, and scrupulously factual, this book promises to be the first in an outstanding series. I, for one, will be reading them all.
November 4, 2018
As a fan of true crime I was excited to start reading this book and I must say the book did not disappoint. I've watched a few documentaries about this case but the book went in to more detail than the tv shows ever did. Once I started I couldn't put it down.
8 year old Maddie disappeared one evening after completing her chores and asking her mother if she could go out to play, breaks my heart that this little angel was taken from the world in such a brutal way. Joshua being just a teenager himself when he committed the crime is also sad for me personally.
If you're a fan of true crime then you'll be hooked from the first page of this book and I highly recommend it. Kathryn's detailed account of the murder and the trial were amazing and she left nothing out. Fantastic writing.
Thank you to TBC reviews on Facebook for the copy.
8 year old Maddie disappeared one evening after completing her chores and asking her mother if she could go out to play, breaks my heart that this little angel was taken from the world in such a brutal way. Joshua being just a teenager himself when he committed the crime is also sad for me personally.
If you're a fan of true crime then you'll be hooked from the first page of this book and I highly recommend it. Kathryn's detailed account of the murder and the trial were amazing and she left nothing out. Fantastic writing.
Thank you to TBC reviews on Facebook for the copy.
September 7, 2018
I received a free copy of Kids Who Kill: Joshua Phillips: True Crime Press Series, Book 1 from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, this is a good series. I was superficially familiar with the story through a documentary I watched several years ago. In it, a 14-year-old boy kills his 8-year-old neighbor, a girl. He hid her body in his bedroom for days. The book provides far more detail (at one time, during a police interview in his bedroom, the killer chose to sit on the bed under which the victim’s body still hid) than the documentary I saw. Moreover, McMaster’s book lays out a far more plausible (and upsetting) motive for the killing than had been portrayed in the television piece.
The book was frankly upsetting to read, as any well-written, investigational, True Crime book should be. It is as gripping as any novel. This book (and the forthcoming volumes from the series, one of which I have also been given to read) is a must-read for those interested in True Crime stories.
(For the record, I do not know when, exactly, I got this book in July, 2018, but I read it in one sitting.)
Five stars.
First of all, this is a good series. I was superficially familiar with the story through a documentary I watched several years ago. In it, a 14-year-old boy kills his 8-year-old neighbor, a girl. He hid her body in his bedroom for days. The book provides far more detail (at one time, during a police interview in his bedroom, the killer chose to sit on the bed under which the victim’s body still hid) than the documentary I saw. Moreover, McMaster’s book lays out a far more plausible (and upsetting) motive for the killing than had been portrayed in the television piece.
The book was frankly upsetting to read, as any well-written, investigational, True Crime book should be. It is as gripping as any novel. This book (and the forthcoming volumes from the series, one of which I have also been given to read) is a must-read for those interested in True Crime stories.
(For the record, I do not know when, exactly, I got this book in July, 2018, but I read it in one sitting.)
Five stars.
October 24, 2018
I read a lot of crime books so the idea of reading about something that really happened was appealing.
For me I found that the events after the trial were too long. I would have liked a bit more insight into what led this boy to do this. I would have liked more theories from psychologists & psychiatrists. Sadly I felt that the latter part of the book dragged without adding much to the narrative.
Kathryn McMaster has researched this case thoroughly & a great deal of thought & care has gone into it. It is well written and converys the facts to the reader. I'm sure this & the other books planned for the series will appeal to many
Thanks to the author & THE Book Club Reviewers group who gave me a copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
For me I found that the events after the trial were too long. I would have liked a bit more insight into what led this boy to do this. I would have liked more theories from psychologists & psychiatrists. Sadly I felt that the latter part of the book dragged without adding much to the narrative.
Kathryn McMaster has researched this case thoroughly & a great deal of thought & care has gone into it. It is well written and converys the facts to the reader. I'm sure this & the other books planned for the series will appeal to many
Thanks to the author & THE Book Club Reviewers group who gave me a copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 3, 2018
I was kindly sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed this book, however if you’re into true crime stories (as I am), a lot of the information is exactly the same. I didn’t find I learnt more about the case than what I already knew. However, the style that it was written is was great, and I would definitely read another of this series as long as it’s a case I’m not already aware of.
November 3, 2018
Kids who kill. Joshua Phillips
This is a true crime story of the horrific murder of 8yr old Maddie Clifton by her 14yr old neighbour Joshua Phillips. Grisly details emerge of the fact that Joshua hid the body beneath his waterbed for 6 days. Because this murder happened in Florida, Joshua is tried as an adult and having been found guilty of first degree murder is sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. A lot of the book focuses on the justice system and the various appeals launched. It examines the defence (or lack of) presented to the court at the initial trial. This is a fascinating well researched and written book. I finished the book with lots of food for thought around the American justice system handling of juvenile criminals versus what happens on this side of the Atlantic.
This is a true crime story of the horrific murder of 8yr old Maddie Clifton by her 14yr old neighbour Joshua Phillips. Grisly details emerge of the fact that Joshua hid the body beneath his waterbed for 6 days. Because this murder happened in Florida, Joshua is tried as an adult and having been found guilty of first degree murder is sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. A lot of the book focuses on the justice system and the various appeals launched. It examines the defence (or lack of) presented to the court at the initial trial. This is a fascinating well researched and written book. I finished the book with lots of food for thought around the American justice system handling of juvenile criminals versus what happens on this side of the Atlantic.
November 12, 2018
I enjoyed following this case. It was interesting to find out what happened, the aftermath and effect on both families and the court case. It's sad to think that an 8 year old girl died needlessly and so close to home. I would recommend this book to other readers interested in true crime.
November 18, 2018
A brilliantly written true crime! A page turner at its best, evoking strong emotions throughout.
Well written, leaving you feeling shell shocked.
Really good, well recommended.
Well written, leaving you feeling shell shocked.
Really good, well recommended.
October 18, 2018
I read this book via an Amazon KINDLE Unlimited download.
Being the voracious book reviewer, I am and being a TOP CONTRIBUTOR for True Crime Books here on Amazon, you probably can tell I’ve read my share of stories involving some of the world’s most deplorable, heinous, sadistic murderers and serial killers. The length which some of these individuals went to in order to commit their crimes and to cover them have been quite intricate and intriguing.
While all of the stories that I’ve read so far about these individuals have been about adults, both male and females, or even late teens, this book by Kathryn McMaster, takes the age for culpability for this type act down to the unbelievable age of 14; which is what Joshua Phillips had been when he’d committed the appalling child murder of a 8-year-old girl by the name of Maddie Clifton, who was a neighbor and one of his apparent friends.
Any author who’s forte is writing True Crime books has to possess a certain level of legitimacy in writing them; a level which must contain a total lack of bias/personal opinions and emotions coupled with research that’s immaculate, has Ms. McMaster as shown in this book.
Ms. McMaster seems to have taken a journalistic approach in the writing of this detailed book, making sure to include the feelings of family from both sides of this unbelievably tragic event, the victim’s and the perpetrator’s families, so that her readers will be able to possess a balance of available facts to form their own evaluation as to whether or not Joshua knew what he had done.
In the description for her book, Ms. McMaster raise some intriguing questions, which readers should be asking themselves as they read this book regarding this case: “How is it possible that this seemingly normal 14-year-old boy can hide her body under his waterbed for a week without either of his parents noticing the distinct smell of decomposing flesh? How can he go about his daily life as if nothing has happened? How can he join in the search for his friend with the rest of the neighborhood knowing that there is no point, as she is already dead?
For having given her readers, a page-turning, non-fiction reading experience I’ve given Ms. McMaster 5 STARS for her endeavor here.
Being the voracious book reviewer, I am and being a TOP CONTRIBUTOR for True Crime Books here on Amazon, you probably can tell I’ve read my share of stories involving some of the world’s most deplorable, heinous, sadistic murderers and serial killers. The length which some of these individuals went to in order to commit their crimes and to cover them have been quite intricate and intriguing.
While all of the stories that I’ve read so far about these individuals have been about adults, both male and females, or even late teens, this book by Kathryn McMaster, takes the age for culpability for this type act down to the unbelievable age of 14; which is what Joshua Phillips had been when he’d committed the appalling child murder of a 8-year-old girl by the name of Maddie Clifton, who was a neighbor and one of his apparent friends.
Any author who’s forte is writing True Crime books has to possess a certain level of legitimacy in writing them; a level which must contain a total lack of bias/personal opinions and emotions coupled with research that’s immaculate, has Ms. McMaster as shown in this book.
Ms. McMaster seems to have taken a journalistic approach in the writing of this detailed book, making sure to include the feelings of family from both sides of this unbelievably tragic event, the victim’s and the perpetrator’s families, so that her readers will be able to possess a balance of available facts to form their own evaluation as to whether or not Joshua knew what he had done.
In the description for her book, Ms. McMaster raise some intriguing questions, which readers should be asking themselves as they read this book regarding this case: “How is it possible that this seemingly normal 14-year-old boy can hide her body under his waterbed for a week without either of his parents noticing the distinct smell of decomposing flesh? How can he go about his daily life as if nothing has happened? How can he join in the search for his friend with the rest of the neighborhood knowing that there is no point, as she is already dead?
For having given her readers, a page-turning, non-fiction reading experience I’ve given Ms. McMaster 5 STARS for her endeavor here.
December 14, 2020
While the book is incredible
I find myself at odds with both families. After a child is murdered it seems both families fall apart. The victims family seems to think all that matters is the life that was lost. In doing that children still in the home are neglected and like it not their parents behavior tells them they aren't worthy of a normal family life. If the goal was all the children first as it should be the living children would rise above the loss of a sibling. From early on raising my children it's the one common theme I'd see in story after story. I swore if this nightmare ever happened to one of mine I would not allow it to destroy those still living. Shame on parents who so callously disregard the living for the dead. As to the parents of the child who murdered I have no compassion for what they suffer. Time and and again the victim and the victims family get nanoseconds of thought from them and the race is on to prove their child deserves a life because they love the child. Accountability is ignored in favor of how to use the system to get what they want. I agree with the judge who said what Josh did earned him a life behind bars. Who he was isn't normal and all caged animals will eventually settle into life as is. But unlike human animals real animals once set free of the cage are capable of relishing life. Josh isn't the rules exconvicts have to live with and the consequences of the law he broke will have him at his breaking point. While he has won a look at his sentence in 2024 it's my hope and prayers that he is caged for the rest of his life. He hasn't admitted and got help for the sick person he is. He only admitted what he really did to work the system.
I find myself at odds with both families. After a child is murdered it seems both families fall apart. The victims family seems to think all that matters is the life that was lost. In doing that children still in the home are neglected and like it not their parents behavior tells them they aren't worthy of a normal family life. If the goal was all the children first as it should be the living children would rise above the loss of a sibling. From early on raising my children it's the one common theme I'd see in story after story. I swore if this nightmare ever happened to one of mine I would not allow it to destroy those still living. Shame on parents who so callously disregard the living for the dead. As to the parents of the child who murdered I have no compassion for what they suffer. Time and and again the victim and the victims family get nanoseconds of thought from them and the race is on to prove their child deserves a life because they love the child. Accountability is ignored in favor of how to use the system to get what they want. I agree with the judge who said what Josh did earned him a life behind bars. Who he was isn't normal and all caged animals will eventually settle into life as is. But unlike human animals real animals once set free of the cage are capable of relishing life. Josh isn't the rules exconvicts have to live with and the consequences of the law he broke will have him at his breaking point. While he has won a look at his sentence in 2024 it's my hope and prayers that he is caged for the rest of his life. He hasn't admitted and got help for the sick person he is. He only admitted what he really did to work the system.
February 17, 2020
Playing with Younger Children
Growing up we played with other kids our age, who attended the elementary school at the corner, and who lived on our street. I knew my older brother's friends, but they never wanted me tagging along so I had my own pack of girls. Some people had to watch a younger sibling otherwise we were within one or two years of each other.
But we did have a couple creepy teen(s) in the neighborhood. Who wanted you to come in his house when his parent(s) weren't home. I always listened to my "Danger, Will Robinson! Danger!" warning voice and always said "That's okay!" If my friends weren't around I played with my dog or climbed the trees in my yard. I was friendly and outgoing, but I was wary of putting myself in circumstances that I didn't know what was going to happen.
Joshua Phillips was too old to be playing with his victim. His initial panic was understandable, but he took it way too far. I don't understand why the law officers couldn't detect the smell of decomposition (as when they visited Jeffrey Dahmer's apartment).
What I enjoyed was how the author contrasts the horror of what Phillips did and the community's reaction, to how dedicated his parents especially his mother was to supporting their 14 year old son. It was very revealing seeing the perpetrator's family's side of the vicious slaying. The victim's family reactions are shown several years after the trial.
Growing up we played with other kids our age, who attended the elementary school at the corner, and who lived on our street. I knew my older brother's friends, but they never wanted me tagging along so I had my own pack of girls. Some people had to watch a younger sibling otherwise we were within one or two years of each other.
But we did have a couple creepy teen(s) in the neighborhood. Who wanted you to come in his house when his parent(s) weren't home. I always listened to my "Danger, Will Robinson! Danger!" warning voice and always said "That's okay!" If my friends weren't around I played with my dog or climbed the trees in my yard. I was friendly and outgoing, but I was wary of putting myself in circumstances that I didn't know what was going to happen.
Joshua Phillips was too old to be playing with his victim. His initial panic was understandable, but he took it way too far. I don't understand why the law officers couldn't detect the smell of decomposition (as when they visited Jeffrey Dahmer's apartment).
What I enjoyed was how the author contrasts the horror of what Phillips did and the community's reaction, to how dedicated his parents especially his mother was to supporting their 14 year old son. It was very revealing seeing the perpetrator's family's side of the vicious slaying. The victim's family reactions are shown several years after the trial.
October 12, 2018
True-crime investigation charting the shocking child murder of Maddie Clifton. When police discovered a 14-year-old boy had hidden the body of his childhood friend under his bed for a week without anyone noticing, they had a lot of questions. How was he able to continue his everyday life as if nothing had happened? Why did his parents not realise there was something wrong when the corpse started to smell? And what was it that drove a child to kill his 8-year-old friend?
This is the first in indie author Kathryn McMaster’s new series ‘Kids Who Kill’. Like her previous books ('Who Killed Little Johnny Gill' and 'Blackmail, Sex and Lies'), Ms McMaster shows off her talent for research and investigation. Using court documents, testimonies and police reports, she brings to life this horrendous murder and its effect on the individuals and families involved. The book drew me in with its fascinating and absorbing account and the author’s clever use of language that gives a feeling of immediacy and participation. It’s also worth noting that the nature of the crime demands a level of detail that some readers may find hard to bear.
With the next two books in this series already listed for pre-order, Kathryn McMaster has created an intriguing and captivating series that will thrill true-crime readers everywhere.
This is the first in indie author Kathryn McMaster’s new series ‘Kids Who Kill’. Like her previous books ('Who Killed Little Johnny Gill' and 'Blackmail, Sex and Lies'), Ms McMaster shows off her talent for research and investigation. Using court documents, testimonies and police reports, she brings to life this horrendous murder and its effect on the individuals and families involved. The book drew me in with its fascinating and absorbing account and the author’s clever use of language that gives a feeling of immediacy and participation. It’s also worth noting that the nature of the crime demands a level of detail that some readers may find hard to bear.
With the next two books in this series already listed for pre-order, Kathryn McMaster has created an intriguing and captivating series that will thrill true-crime readers everywhere.
November 19, 2018
Why read true crime, one may ask? Maybe to better understand what is going through someone else's head? To recognize traits of a killer? Yes, perhaps for these reasons, and more. But when the killer is a child... we all shudder; it is unexpected and sad. Author McMaster writes this true crime story with a neutrality that is without her own expression of horror, repulsion, and judgment, which would be a hard thing to do, especially because it involves children. She takes us on the journey of the reveal, and the trial. What touched me was Joshua's mother. She loves her son. I feel her pain. Nothing stops a love of a mother towards a son.
Missy Phillips (mom of Joshua) as she drives the four-hour drive back home after visiting her son in prison (this was written by Missy):
"I wonder how I am ever going to make it back home feeling this way. I miss Josh before I am out of the driveway. Indeed, I am missing him as we're embracing that last time before I walk out the door to continue serving my life sentence, for as surely as Josh was given one, so was I. ... I ask God to help me through another day."
And that could be a good reason to read true crime: To pray for the moms. For they were served a sentence too, and they cry a million tears.
Missy Phillips (mom of Joshua) as she drives the four-hour drive back home after visiting her son in prison (this was written by Missy):
"I wonder how I am ever going to make it back home feeling this way. I miss Josh before I am out of the driveway. Indeed, I am missing him as we're embracing that last time before I walk out the door to continue serving my life sentence, for as surely as Josh was given one, so was I. ... I ask God to help me through another day."
And that could be a good reason to read true crime: To pray for the moms. For they were served a sentence too, and they cry a million tears.
October 12, 2018
Concise, balanced examination of an unbelievable crime
I've read all of Ms. McMaster's books, and this latest, the first in a series of children who commit murder, doesn't disappoint. I remember this crime well; living in the area, watching the news, you become invested in the lives of total strangers. What a shock when little Maddie's found, and her young teenaged neighbor is charged with the crime.! Ms. McMaster's impeccable research allows the reader to examine this crime in detail; participants speak in their own words, and you will learn and understand more about the American legal system. The feelings of the family members - both dealing with unimaginable loss- is presented in a non-emotional, direct way that allows the reader to see both sides. The question of whether life in prison is too harsh a sentence for someone at 14 is presented. Is that truly throwing away a young life, or in some ways is that a benefit to a young person who is already seeking a life out of control? This is a case that could happen to any of us, victim or perpetrator, in today's society. I look forward to the next books in the series.
I've read all of Ms. McMaster's books, and this latest, the first in a series of children who commit murder, doesn't disappoint. I remember this crime well; living in the area, watching the news, you become invested in the lives of total strangers. What a shock when little Maddie's found, and her young teenaged neighbor is charged with the crime.! Ms. McMaster's impeccable research allows the reader to examine this crime in detail; participants speak in their own words, and you will learn and understand more about the American legal system. The feelings of the family members - both dealing with unimaginable loss- is presented in a non-emotional, direct way that allows the reader to see both sides. The question of whether life in prison is too harsh a sentence for someone at 14 is presented. Is that truly throwing away a young life, or in some ways is that a benefit to a young person who is already seeking a life out of control? This is a case that could happen to any of us, victim or perpetrator, in today's society. I look forward to the next books in the series.
March 8, 2019
I remembered seeing this story in the news some years ago, but I had no idea it was in Florida or that it happened so long ago. I believe I must have heard about it around the time of one of the retrials/appeals. This book was well done in my opinion; it relied on facts of the case rather than conjecture. You get all the witness testimony, the arguments from both attorneys, and the thoughts, feelings, actions, and actual words from everyone involved.
I didn't like how the defense tried to twist everything up as if the jury was stupid, and I didn't like how the boy's parents wanted to be angry with and resentful of everyone BUT their son, the killer. And that's exactly what he was, because there's no way it had been an accident. I also didn't like when it came to the judge's explanation of his findings in 2017. It was SOOOO long and boring. There were also a few editing mistakes. But overall I really enjoyed learning so many new facts and gaining a better understanding, especially the clarification for the legal definition for premeditation. I plan to read the rest of this series.
I didn't like how the defense tried to twist everything up as if the jury was stupid, and I didn't like how the boy's parents wanted to be angry with and resentful of everyone BUT their son, the killer. And that's exactly what he was, because there's no way it had been an accident. I also didn't like when it came to the judge's explanation of his findings in 2017. It was SOOOO long and boring. There were also a few editing mistakes. But overall I really enjoyed learning so many new facts and gaining a better understanding, especially the clarification for the legal definition for premeditation. I plan to read the rest of this series.
November 22, 2018
So many questions
You know this is and was my hometown and I remember this story like it just happened. And it really shook up everyone in Jacksonville and made us hold those we love even that much closer! That being said still to this day there are still so many unanswered questions! But that being said I think this book has come to the closest and had at least tried to answer so many questions. I'm glad that I decided to give this book a chance! While I may never understand what made Joshua make that fateful decision that day this book has made me be able to at least face what scared so many of us parents back then! My heart has always gone out to both families and I hope that this book will continue to not only maybe answer some questions but also bring about some very important issues that still to this day have never been addressed.
So if you are looking for a well written book that may also help you understand different aspects of crime, then this is a great read!!! It's def worth it and I will be reading more from this author!!
You know this is and was my hometown and I remember this story like it just happened. And it really shook up everyone in Jacksonville and made us hold those we love even that much closer! That being said still to this day there are still so many unanswered questions! But that being said I think this book has come to the closest and had at least tried to answer so many questions. I'm glad that I decided to give this book a chance! While I may never understand what made Joshua make that fateful decision that day this book has made me be able to at least face what scared so many of us parents back then! My heart has always gone out to both families and I hope that this book will continue to not only maybe answer some questions but also bring about some very important issues that still to this day have never been addressed.
So if you are looking for a well written book that may also help you understand different aspects of crime, then this is a great read!!! It's def worth it and I will be reading more from this author!!
November 2, 2018
Not at all sensationalistic
I thought this book might be one of those quick true crime books that are filled with gruesome details just to sell a copy but this book wasn't like that at all. In fact, I was going to give it three stars initially because of all the dry court testimony. However, once you get past that the book picks up steam with a very interesting portion written by the young killer's mother. I had never heard of this case before, (which is rare), and the ending was satisfying. There is also a beautiful color picture of little Maddie included that just exudes sweetness and light. My heart goes out to both families who lost their children one fateful afternoon.
I thought this book might be one of those quick true crime books that are filled with gruesome details just to sell a copy but this book wasn't like that at all. In fact, I was going to give it three stars initially because of all the dry court testimony. However, once you get past that the book picks up steam with a very interesting portion written by the young killer's mother. I had never heard of this case before, (which is rare), and the ending was satisfying. There is also a beautiful color picture of little Maddie included that just exudes sweetness and light. My heart goes out to both families who lost their children one fateful afternoon.
August 9, 2019
Unreal and super creepy.
Reading about this is so interesting , yet upsetting. Yes, this boy would've been a serial killer. He seemed beyond evil in his actions. Hate to be judgy but geez, I'm just bewildered at the details of the crime. Taking abnormal psychology introduced me to minds of the serial killer types so I agree that was stated by someone in the book. No, he shouldn't get out. It's good he got caught when he did. Although unfortunately for Maddy and her family. In her sacrifice she may have saved countless others. My heart breaks for both parents, although more for Maddys. I didn't give it a higher rating because of the long winded legal crap. It's a pretty intense read.
Reading about this is so interesting , yet upsetting. Yes, this boy would've been a serial killer. He seemed beyond evil in his actions. Hate to be judgy but geez, I'm just bewildered at the details of the crime. Taking abnormal psychology introduced me to minds of the serial killer types so I agree that was stated by someone in the book. No, he shouldn't get out. It's good he got caught when he did. Although unfortunately for Maddy and her family. In her sacrifice she may have saved countless others. My heart breaks for both parents, although more for Maddys. I didn't give it a higher rating because of the long winded legal crap. It's a pretty intense read.
December 4, 2018
Sad story all around.
The boy Joshua, who murdered his little 8 year old Maddie still won’t even tell his mother what all he did. That speaks volumes about how right the police were in their quest for justice. Joshua got the right sentence. I can’t believe how his parents feel that he did not get what he deserves. Maddie’s parents are without her forever. Why should Joshua be set free. I do think, as some of the experts do, that they stopped a serial killer in the making. I feel not one ounce of sadness for him. If he were my son I would still love him till death, but to see him set free would be unthinkable.
The boy Joshua, who murdered his little 8 year old Maddie still won’t even tell his mother what all he did. That speaks volumes about how right the police were in their quest for justice. Joshua got the right sentence. I can’t believe how his parents feel that he did not get what he deserves. Maddie’s parents are without her forever. Why should Joshua be set free. I do think, as some of the experts do, that they stopped a serial killer in the making. I feel not one ounce of sadness for him. If he were my son I would still love him till death, but to see him set free would be unthinkable.
January 21, 2019
Hard to feel sympathy for this defendant
The book is well written and all sides given. I just have a hard time givng any book a rating where the main aubject of the book killed someone else, especially killed a child so young. I really have a hard time feeling sorry for the defendant in his lifetime incarceration. He has gotten what he deserves. I also have to say that I cannot feel sympathy for his family ......their pain can never compare to that of the Clifton's.
As to the author, this book is well written and gives all sides perspectives. I havr to say, the author did something that i could not and that is that they gave the defendant's family true compassion.
The book is well written and all sides given. I just have a hard time givng any book a rating where the main aubject of the book killed someone else, especially killed a child so young. I really have a hard time feeling sorry for the defendant in his lifetime incarceration. He has gotten what he deserves. I also have to say that I cannot feel sympathy for his family ......their pain can never compare to that of the Clifton's.
As to the author, this book is well written and gives all sides perspectives. I havr to say, the author did something that i could not and that is that they gave the defendant's family true compassion.
October 13, 2018
While the story is shocking, Ms. McMasters does an excellent job of telling it. Her unbiased account enables the reader to understand and question the event and the lives that were damaged. "Kids Who Kill: Joshua Phillips" is a page-turner even though there are times when one is afraid to turn the page. If you are into true crime this book is a definite must-read.
The next two books in this series are already listed for pre-order. Ms. McMaster has created a series that will definitely intrigue true-crime readers.
The next two books in this series are already listed for pre-order. Ms. McMaster has created a series that will definitely intrigue true-crime readers.
November 5, 2018
Why is murder so much more dreadful when a child kills a chlld? Joshua Phillips was just 14 when he murdered eight-year-old Maddie Clifton, but he was tried as an adult and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.
No-one knows exactly what happened, or why: the author doesn’t speculate, she just tells the story, including court records, police testimony and a heart-breaking account from Joshua’s mother who reminds us that she, too, is serving a life sentence. This isn’t an easy read but it is a riveting one.
July 6, 2019
Very Moving Account
There were moments that this book seemed more of a four- star read. However, I chose five stars because of the passages about the killer's family. My heart was touched by the suffering both families have and will endure. Well.done Ms. McMaster! We know everyone is impacted by murder, but it's somehow easier to put it out of mind, or worse blame, the murder 's family. Yes, some families are horrendously dysfunctional, but that doesn't excuse is from having sympathy for them all.
There were moments that this book seemed more of a four- star read. However, I chose five stars because of the passages about the killer's family. My heart was touched by the suffering both families have and will endure. Well.done Ms. McMaster! We know everyone is impacted by murder, but it's somehow easier to put it out of mind, or worse blame, the murder 's family. Yes, some families are horrendously dysfunctional, but that doesn't excuse is from having sympathy for them all.
October 31, 2018
I really enjoyed the book and she is one of my favorite authors. I have read her first three books and hope to read the next two coming out in November and December. I felt very sad for the victim and the perpetrator in this book. Being a murderer at the age of 14 is quite horrific. My heart goes out to both families. They both ultimately suffered the loss of a child, one to murder and one to prison.
November 7, 2018
As a fan of true crime books I was eager to read this book in return for a review. The view is entirely my own.
In comparison to the majority of true crime that I have read this book does not just lay out the events and how they happened. It also looks at the effect that a hideous crime like this has on the community and the families of those directly involved.
The book is well written and the accounts portrayed are sensitively recounted, and researched.
A good read for fans of true crime.
In comparison to the majority of true crime that I have read this book does not just lay out the events and how they happened. It also looks at the effect that a hideous crime like this has on the community and the families of those directly involved.
The book is well written and the accounts portrayed are sensitively recounted, and researched.
A good read for fans of true crime.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews