What do you think?
Rate this book
The Schoolgirl Strangler
The shocking true story of a serial killer in 1930s Melbourne.
November, 1930. One sunny Saturday afternoon, 12-year-old Mena Griffiths was playing in the park when she was lured away by an unknown man. Hours later, her strangled body was found, mouth gagged and hands crossed over her chest, in an abandoned house. Only months later, another girl was murdered; the similarities between the cases undeniable. Crime in Melbourne had taken a shocking new turn: this was the work of a serial killer, a homicidal maniac.
Despite their best efforts, police had no experience dealing with this kind of criminal. What followed was years of bungled investigations, falsely accused men - and the tragic deaths of two more girls - before the murderer was finally caught and brought to justice.
With all the pace of a thriller, Katherine Kovacic recounts this extraordinary, chilling true story - of failed police enquiries, a killer with a Jekyll and Hyde personality, and the families shattered when four innocent lives were cruelly taken.
November, 1930. One sunny Saturday afternoon, 12-year-old Mena Griffiths was playing in the park when she was lured away by an unknown man. Hours later, her strangled body was found, mouth gagged and hands crossed over her chest, in an abandoned house. Only months later, another girl was murdered; the similarities between the cases undeniable. Crime in Melbourne had taken a shocking new turn: this was the work of a serial killer, a homicidal maniac.
Despite their best efforts, police had no experience dealing with this kind of criminal. What followed was years of bungled investigations, falsely accused men - and the tragic deaths of two more girls - before the murderer was finally caught and brought to justice.
With all the pace of a thriller, Katherine Kovacic recounts this extraordinary, chilling true story - of failed police enquiries, a killer with a Jekyll and Hyde personality, and the families shattered when four innocent lives were cruelly taken.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 3, 2021
15 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
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
January 21, 2021
4.5★s
The Schoolgirl Strangler is the fourth book by Australian author, Katherine Kovacic. Four girls of school age murdered, over a span of five years from late 1930, in or near Melbourne, and the Victoria Police are baffled. There are suspects; inquests conclude “murder”; arrests are made; a man is put on trial; reputations are ruined; but the real perpetrator is not found. Until…
Kovacic gathers together the information about each of the four cases from a myriad of sources and presents it to the reader in easily digestible form. Suspects, the actions of the police, the trial, the appeal, the execution of the death sentence, the accused man’s dialogue with the Inspector General of Prisons, and the Justice’s instructions to the jury are all thoroughly examined.
Kovacic’s meticulous research is apparent on every page, but at no time does this make for a heavy read: the way the facts are fed into the narrative gives it the feel of a crime novel, never dry or dense; always interesting, moreso from the benefit of hindsight and modern psychiatric and psychological knowledge.
The half-decade that Kovacic describes is so different from the modern day as to be incredible to younger readers: a dearth of telephones and other technology; the use of Indigenous trackers; longer travel times; suits as routine attire even during leisure activities; newspapers passed around between neighbours; no formal Legal Aid; and of course, no recourse to DNA or trace analysis.
Many aspects of the condemned man’s behaviour are chilling, including: his clear lack of remorse; his smile at hearing of his death sentence; and his statement just before his execution “If I were to go out tomorrow it [murder] would happen again… The sooner I go through the drop the better.”
The first two cases certainly present particular members of Victoria’s police force in the early 1930s in a less-than-favourable light: selecting a suspect, then ignoring any evidence that didn’t implicate him and failing to follow up any alibis he cited; dubious line-up practices; and trying to force a confession on circumstantial evidence. More than one miscarriage of justice is narrowly averted.
While maps of the various locations mentioned in the text would have been an appreciated addition, this is otherwise a thoroughly gripping and fascinating look at a series of murders that shot fear into Victoria’s parents.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by Echo Publications.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is the fourth book by Australian author, Katherine Kovacic. Four girls of school age murdered, over a span of five years from late 1930, in or near Melbourne, and the Victoria Police are baffled. There are suspects; inquests conclude “murder”; arrests are made; a man is put on trial; reputations are ruined; but the real perpetrator is not found. Until…
Kovacic gathers together the information about each of the four cases from a myriad of sources and presents it to the reader in easily digestible form. Suspects, the actions of the police, the trial, the appeal, the execution of the death sentence, the accused man’s dialogue with the Inspector General of Prisons, and the Justice’s instructions to the jury are all thoroughly examined.
Kovacic’s meticulous research is apparent on every page, but at no time does this make for a heavy read: the way the facts are fed into the narrative gives it the feel of a crime novel, never dry or dense; always interesting, moreso from the benefit of hindsight and modern psychiatric and psychological knowledge.
The half-decade that Kovacic describes is so different from the modern day as to be incredible to younger readers: a dearth of telephones and other technology; the use of Indigenous trackers; longer travel times; suits as routine attire even during leisure activities; newspapers passed around between neighbours; no formal Legal Aid; and of course, no recourse to DNA or trace analysis.
Many aspects of the condemned man’s behaviour are chilling, including: his clear lack of remorse; his smile at hearing of his death sentence; and his statement just before his execution “If I were to go out tomorrow it [murder] would happen again… The sooner I go through the drop the better.”
The first two cases certainly present particular members of Victoria’s police force in the early 1930s in a less-than-favourable light: selecting a suspect, then ignoring any evidence that didn’t implicate him and failing to follow up any alibis he cited; dubious line-up practices; and trying to force a confession on circumstantial evidence. More than one miscarriage of justice is narrowly averted.
While maps of the various locations mentioned in the text would have been an appreciated addition, this is otherwise a thoroughly gripping and fascinating look at a series of murders that shot fear into Victoria’s parents.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by Echo Publications.
January 21, 2021
When the body of a young girl, lured from the park by a stranger during the summer of 1930, is found bound, gagged and strangled in an abandoned house, Melbourne is stunned. The police quickly focus in on a suspect, but as they move ahead with the prosecution, another young girl is found bound, gagged and strangled in a vacant block. Twelve year old Mena Griffiths, and sixteen year old Hazel Wilson were the first two of four victims of a serial killer, given the media moniker of ‘The Schoolgirl Strangler’ that eluded the police for five years.
Drawing on newspaper reports, police records and court documents, author Katherine Kovacic lays out the particulars of each murder and the investigation into each crime in chronological order. I liked the structure Kovacic chose for this narrative though this is really only possible because of the unique path the investigation took, primarily as a result of several serious errors by the police. In the crimes against Mena Griffiths, Hazel Wilson, and twelve year old Ethel Belshaw, a different suspect was identified each time, leading to an arrest, and in one case even a false conviction. I found myself intrigued by the way in which the cases unfolded, which Kovacic reveals in detail. In the absence of modern crime scene techniques, and understanding (the term ‘serial killer’ would not be coined for decades), the charges were based on little else than flimsy circumstantial evidence and eventually fell apart, with the real killer having escaped notice. It wasn’t until the discovery of the tiny body of six year old June Rushmer in December 1935, who was also bound, gagged and strangled, that the man responsible for all four crimes was captured. With his prompt confession under questioning, the links between each case became clear.
The identity of the murderer finally revealed, Kovacic then leads us through his trial. What I found most interesting with regards to the prosecution of the perpetrator was the debate about his sanity. The killer blamed his actions on drink, claiming he lost his senses when under the influence and didn’t remember the actual commission of his crimes so could not therefore be held accountable. The defence ran with this, pleading insanity, combining it with the general assumption that a person who would strangle young girls for no discernible reason must suffer from a mental disease.
Kovacic presents a meticulous and astute account of a fascinating historical crime in The Schoolgirl Strangler, and I think readers of both the true crime, and crime fiction genres will find the narrative approach accessible and interesting.
Drawing on newspaper reports, police records and court documents, author Katherine Kovacic lays out the particulars of each murder and the investigation into each crime in chronological order. I liked the structure Kovacic chose for this narrative though this is really only possible because of the unique path the investigation took, primarily as a result of several serious errors by the police. In the crimes against Mena Griffiths, Hazel Wilson, and twelve year old Ethel Belshaw, a different suspect was identified each time, leading to an arrest, and in one case even a false conviction. I found myself intrigued by the way in which the cases unfolded, which Kovacic reveals in detail. In the absence of modern crime scene techniques, and understanding (the term ‘serial killer’ would not be coined for decades), the charges were based on little else than flimsy circumstantial evidence and eventually fell apart, with the real killer having escaped notice. It wasn’t until the discovery of the tiny body of six year old June Rushmer in December 1935, who was also bound, gagged and strangled, that the man responsible for all four crimes was captured. With his prompt confession under questioning, the links between each case became clear.
The identity of the murderer finally revealed, Kovacic then leads us through his trial. What I found most interesting with regards to the prosecution of the perpetrator was the debate about his sanity. The killer blamed his actions on drink, claiming he lost his senses when under the influence and didn’t remember the actual commission of his crimes so could not therefore be held accountable. The defence ran with this, pleading insanity, combining it with the general assumption that a person who would strangle young girls for no discernible reason must suffer from a mental disease.
Kovacic presents a meticulous and astute account of a fascinating historical crime in The Schoolgirl Strangler, and I think readers of both the true crime, and crime fiction genres will find the narrative approach accessible and interesting.
July 3, 2024
a gruesome account of a real trial.
August 23, 2022
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
The Schoolgirl Strangler is a remarkable slice of Australian historical true crime from novelist Katherine Kovacic, the author of The Portrait of Molly Dean. Respectful, noteworthy and engrossing, this is an essential read for true crime or Australian history buffs.
The Schoolgirl Strangler takes the reader back to Melbourne in the 1930s as a terrifying killer makes his presence known. Striking first in a park in the South Yarra area, this murderer brutally ends the life of a twelve-year-old girl. Just a few months later, another victim of this vicious killer is claimed, in a nearby suburb named Ormond. Hazel Wilson’s body is found in a similar set of circumstances as twelve-year-old Mena Griffiths. Although Hazel is older than Mena, an immediate and horrifying conclusion is drawn, there is a serial killer at large in 1930s Melbourne. The Schoolgirl Strangler is a frightening true crime text, offering a chilling window into times gone by, when four blameless girls had their lives cruelly cut short by a deranged individual.
I’ve had The Schoolgirl Strangler sitting patiently on my shelves since I purchased this true crime book over a year ago. I’m so pleased I made the time to indulge in a spot of historical true crime, thanks to one of my favourite crime fiction authors.
Structurally, The Schoolgirl Strangler is very ordered. Relayed over twenty-two compelling chapters, The Schoolgirl Strangler details the deaths of four different school aged girls, the ensuing police investigation, the convictions, the eventual capture of the true culprit, the court case and final fate of the accused. Kovacic also includes an appendix which is Justice Gavan Duffy’s expression to the jury of this shocking case. This is accompanied by a six page notes spread, along with a four page references section. A brief acknowledgements page rounds off this fascinating angle into Australia’s terrifying past. I found myself completely drawn into this non-fiction text and I felt like it read more like a crime fiction novel. Katherine Kovacic’s approach is open, revealing, respectful and clear. The facts of this bungled case are relayed precisely thanks to Kovacic’s suitable tone. It is clear that this Ned Kelly Fiction award contender has incorporated a range of material to inform this text’s base. From interviews, records, witness statements, court proceedings and newspaper archives, the terrifying behaviour of The Schoolgirl Strangler is vividly brought to life by Katherine Kovacic.
An added bonus to this compelling true crime configuration is the inside artwork. Each incoming chapter is headed by an image of the actual perpetrator of this crime obscured by a jigsaw puzzle. As each chapter unfurls, a piece of the jigsaw is removed, gradually revealing this crazed killer’s identity. I had no prior knowledge of this case so I went into the book completely blind. This was a good approach as I had no pre existing ideas or opinions about this tragic set of events in Melbourne’s past. As Kovacic exposed more details to this heinous killer’s actions I found myself surprised, shocked and sickened by these events. Kovacic provides a good balance between fact and vivid detail, but she takes a careful approach to the finer details of this chilling case.
With an additional focus on the mental health status of the killer and his inability to recall key details of the murders due to his alcoholism, this is an involving state of affairs. The court aspects were essential pieces to this true crime puzzle, but it was the only area of the book that I found my attention was somewhat strained. However, the final moments of The Schoolgirl Strangler leaves plenty of food for thought in terms of admissions, acceptance and responsibility in relation to this murderer’s impact on his victims, their family, friends, the community and society.
Tense, carefully compiled, dark and revealing, The Schoolgirl Strangler is an alarming true crime issue, that offers a grim look at the shock loss of four young lives, cut short by an unforgiving killer.
4.5 stars
The Schoolgirl Strangler is a remarkable slice of Australian historical true crime from novelist Katherine Kovacic, the author of The Portrait of Molly Dean. Respectful, noteworthy and engrossing, this is an essential read for true crime or Australian history buffs.
The Schoolgirl Strangler takes the reader back to Melbourne in the 1930s as a terrifying killer makes his presence known. Striking first in a park in the South Yarra area, this murderer brutally ends the life of a twelve-year-old girl. Just a few months later, another victim of this vicious killer is claimed, in a nearby suburb named Ormond. Hazel Wilson’s body is found in a similar set of circumstances as twelve-year-old Mena Griffiths. Although Hazel is older than Mena, an immediate and horrifying conclusion is drawn, there is a serial killer at large in 1930s Melbourne. The Schoolgirl Strangler is a frightening true crime text, offering a chilling window into times gone by, when four blameless girls had their lives cruelly cut short by a deranged individual.
I’ve had The Schoolgirl Strangler sitting patiently on my shelves since I purchased this true crime book over a year ago. I’m so pleased I made the time to indulge in a spot of historical true crime, thanks to one of my favourite crime fiction authors.
Structurally, The Schoolgirl Strangler is very ordered. Relayed over twenty-two compelling chapters, The Schoolgirl Strangler details the deaths of four different school aged girls, the ensuing police investigation, the convictions, the eventual capture of the true culprit, the court case and final fate of the accused. Kovacic also includes an appendix which is Justice Gavan Duffy’s expression to the jury of this shocking case. This is accompanied by a six page notes spread, along with a four page references section. A brief acknowledgements page rounds off this fascinating angle into Australia’s terrifying past. I found myself completely drawn into this non-fiction text and I felt like it read more like a crime fiction novel. Katherine Kovacic’s approach is open, revealing, respectful and clear. The facts of this bungled case are relayed precisely thanks to Kovacic’s suitable tone. It is clear that this Ned Kelly Fiction award contender has incorporated a range of material to inform this text’s base. From interviews, records, witness statements, court proceedings and newspaper archives, the terrifying behaviour of The Schoolgirl Strangler is vividly brought to life by Katherine Kovacic.
An added bonus to this compelling true crime configuration is the inside artwork. Each incoming chapter is headed by an image of the actual perpetrator of this crime obscured by a jigsaw puzzle. As each chapter unfurls, a piece of the jigsaw is removed, gradually revealing this crazed killer’s identity. I had no prior knowledge of this case so I went into the book completely blind. This was a good approach as I had no pre existing ideas or opinions about this tragic set of events in Melbourne’s past. As Kovacic exposed more details to this heinous killer’s actions I found myself surprised, shocked and sickened by these events. Kovacic provides a good balance between fact and vivid detail, but she takes a careful approach to the finer details of this chilling case.
With an additional focus on the mental health status of the killer and his inability to recall key details of the murders due to his alcoholism, this is an involving state of affairs. The court aspects were essential pieces to this true crime puzzle, but it was the only area of the book that I found my attention was somewhat strained. However, the final moments of The Schoolgirl Strangler leaves plenty of food for thought in terms of admissions, acceptance and responsibility in relation to this murderer’s impact on his victims, their family, friends, the community and society.
Tense, carefully compiled, dark and revealing, The Schoolgirl Strangler is an alarming true crime issue, that offers a grim look at the shock loss of four young lives, cut short by an unforgiving killer.
February 24, 2021
‘Saturday, 8 November 1930 was an unseasonably warm Melbourne day.’
Twelve-year-old Mena Griffiths was playing in the park with her sisters and friends when she was lured away from the park by an unknown man. Lena’s body was found, strangled, and gagged, in an abandoned house the following morning. Just nine weeks later, sixteen-year-old Hazel Wilson was found, gagged, and strangled on a vacant block near her home.
In 1935, two more girls were murdered: twelve-year -old Ethel Belshaw and six-year-old June Rushmer.
After June Belshaw’s body was found, the man responsible for all four murders was captured, and confessed. He is tried, and eventually executed for his crimes. Who was he, and how did he manage to evade capture for so long? The police had suspects, had arrested men and, in one case, obtained the conviction of an innocent man.
In writing about this case, Ms Kovacic drew on contemporary newspaper reports (some of which can be accessed through Trove), police records and court documents. She sets out the chronology of each case, and of the subsequent investigation. It makes for heartbreaking reading.
Once the murderer is identified, Ms Kovacic takes us through his background and then through his trial. The murderer claimed to have no memory of events and the defence went for an insanity defence. By pleading insanity, the onus of proof fell on the defence to clearly establish insanity. The insanity defence failed, the murderer was found guilty and (after exhausting the appeals processes) was executed in Pentridge on 1 June 1936.
Before I read this book, I knew nothing about these four girls, although I had heard of the murderer. I finished the book, thinking of all the other lives destroyed when the murderer took the lives of Mena Griffiths (1918-1930); Hazel Wilson (1914-1931); Ethel Belshaw (1922-1935) and June Rushmer(1929-1935).
Ms Kovacic presents a comprehensive and accessible account of these historic murders, and I recommend this book to anyone with an interest in accounts of true crime.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Twelve-year-old Mena Griffiths was playing in the park with her sisters and friends when she was lured away from the park by an unknown man. Lena’s body was found, strangled, and gagged, in an abandoned house the following morning. Just nine weeks later, sixteen-year-old Hazel Wilson was found, gagged, and strangled on a vacant block near her home.
In 1935, two more girls were murdered: twelve-year -old Ethel Belshaw and six-year-old June Rushmer.
After June Belshaw’s body was found, the man responsible for all four murders was captured, and confessed. He is tried, and eventually executed for his crimes. Who was he, and how did he manage to evade capture for so long? The police had suspects, had arrested men and, in one case, obtained the conviction of an innocent man.
In writing about this case, Ms Kovacic drew on contemporary newspaper reports (some of which can be accessed through Trove), police records and court documents. She sets out the chronology of each case, and of the subsequent investigation. It makes for heartbreaking reading.
Once the murderer is identified, Ms Kovacic takes us through his background and then through his trial. The murderer claimed to have no memory of events and the defence went for an insanity defence. By pleading insanity, the onus of proof fell on the defence to clearly establish insanity. The insanity defence failed, the murderer was found guilty and (after exhausting the appeals processes) was executed in Pentridge on 1 June 1936.
Before I read this book, I knew nothing about these four girls, although I had heard of the murderer. I finished the book, thinking of all the other lives destroyed when the murderer took the lives of Mena Griffiths (1918-1930); Hazel Wilson (1914-1931); Ethel Belshaw (1922-1935) and June Rushmer(1929-1935).
Ms Kovacic presents a comprehensive and accessible account of these historic murders, and I recommend this book to anyone with an interest in accounts of true crime.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 16, 2021
4.5★s
The Schoolgirl Strangler is the fourth book by Australian author, Katherine Kovacic. The audio version is read by Jenny Seedsman. Four girls of school age murdered, over a span of five years from late 1930, in or near Melbourne, and the Victoria Police are baffled. There are suspects; inquests conclude “murder”; arrests are made; a man is put on trial; reputations are ruined; but the real perpetrator is not found. Until…
Kovacic gathers together the information about each of the four cases from a myriad of sources and presents it to the reader in easily digestible form. Suspects, the actions of the police, the trial, the appeal, the execution of the death sentence, the accused man’s dialogue with the Inspector General of Prisons, and the Justice’s instructions to the jury are all thoroughly examined.
Kovacic’s meticulous research is apparent on every page, but at no time does this make for a heavy read: the way the facts are fed into the narrative gives it the feel of a crime novel, never dry or dense; always interesting, moreso from the benefit of hindsight and modern psychiatric and psychological knowledge.
The half-decade that Kovacic describes is so different from the modern day as to be incredible to younger readers: a dearth of telephones and other technology; the use of Indigenous trackers; longer travel times; suits as routine attire even during leisure activities; newspapers passed around between neighbours; no formal Legal Aid; and of course, no recourse to DNA or trace analysis.
Many aspects of the condemned man’s behaviour are chilling, including: his clear lack of remorse; his smile at hearing of his death sentence; and his statement just before his execution “If I were to go out tomorrow it [murder] would happen again… The sooner I go through the drop the better.”
The first two cases certainly present particular members of Victoria’s police force in the early 1930s in a less-than-favourable light: selecting a suspect, then ignoring any evidence that didn’t implicate him and failing to follow up any alibis he cited; dubious line-up practices; and trying to force a confession on circumstantial evidence. More than one miscarriage of justice is narrowly averted.
While maps of the various locations mentioned in the text would have been an appreciated addition, this is otherwise a thoroughly gripping and fascinating look at a series of murders that shot fear into Victoria’s parents.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is the fourth book by Australian author, Katherine Kovacic. The audio version is read by Jenny Seedsman. Four girls of school age murdered, over a span of five years from late 1930, in or near Melbourne, and the Victoria Police are baffled. There are suspects; inquests conclude “murder”; arrests are made; a man is put on trial; reputations are ruined; but the real perpetrator is not found. Until…
Kovacic gathers together the information about each of the four cases from a myriad of sources and presents it to the reader in easily digestible form. Suspects, the actions of the police, the trial, the appeal, the execution of the death sentence, the accused man’s dialogue with the Inspector General of Prisons, and the Justice’s instructions to the jury are all thoroughly examined.
Kovacic’s meticulous research is apparent on every page, but at no time does this make for a heavy read: the way the facts are fed into the narrative gives it the feel of a crime novel, never dry or dense; always interesting, moreso from the benefit of hindsight and modern psychiatric and psychological knowledge.
The half-decade that Kovacic describes is so different from the modern day as to be incredible to younger readers: a dearth of telephones and other technology; the use of Indigenous trackers; longer travel times; suits as routine attire even during leisure activities; newspapers passed around between neighbours; no formal Legal Aid; and of course, no recourse to DNA or trace analysis.
Many aspects of the condemned man’s behaviour are chilling, including: his clear lack of remorse; his smile at hearing of his death sentence; and his statement just before his execution “If I were to go out tomorrow it [murder] would happen again… The sooner I go through the drop the better.”
The first two cases certainly present particular members of Victoria’s police force in the early 1930s in a less-than-favourable light: selecting a suspect, then ignoring any evidence that didn’t implicate him and failing to follow up any alibis he cited; dubious line-up practices; and trying to force a confession on circumstantial evidence. More than one miscarriage of justice is narrowly averted.
While maps of the various locations mentioned in the text would have been an appreciated addition, this is otherwise a thoroughly gripping and fascinating look at a series of murders that shot fear into Victoria’s parents.
January 31, 2021
Listened to the audiobook via Scribd!
This is not an easy listen. Most of the events are harrowing and shocking to hear about. Set in 1930s Melbourne, there is a strangler on the loose and murdering young girls in the Australian state of Victoria. Each time that a person gets arrested, courtroom escapades shock the nation while the real killer is still out there. Major trigger warnings for sexual assault, assault, murder, descriptions of corpses and crime scenes with victims who are minors. For historical true crime readers/listeners, The Schoolgirl Strangler should be on your TBR! Very well-researched and I agree with one Goodreads user who said this reads like a thriller.
This is not an easy listen. Most of the events are harrowing and shocking to hear about. Set in 1930s Melbourne, there is a strangler on the loose and murdering young girls in the Australian state of Victoria. Each time that a person gets arrested, courtroom escapades shock the nation while the real killer is still out there. Major trigger warnings for sexual assault, assault, murder, descriptions of corpses and crime scenes with victims who are minors. For historical true crime readers/listeners, The Schoolgirl Strangler should be on your TBR! Very well-researched and I agree with one Goodreads user who said this reads like a thriller.
January 13, 2021
I was keen to read The Schoolgirl Strangler by Katherine Kovacic because I like her writing and met her at an event and she commented on coming across these cases when researching her first book, the Ned Kelly Award-nominated The Portrait of Molly Dean. So I figured I’d push myself out of my comfort zone to kick off 2021.
I was surprised at how intrigued I was by the murders of these four young girls. Before I started the book I didn't know 'whodunnit' or any of the backstory so - in reality for me - it was a bit like reading fiction... as if Kovacic could (yet) twist events to manipulate the outcome.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
I was surprised at how intrigued I was by the murders of these four young girls. Before I started the book I didn't know 'whodunnit' or any of the backstory so - in reality for me - it was a bit like reading fiction... as if Kovacic could (yet) twist events to manipulate the outcome.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
March 29, 2021
Katherine Kovacic is a talented writer, who, with the publishing of this work of non-fiction, has demonstrated her great skills and depth of writing and research. I enjoyed every aspect of this read- the cover art – which is perfect for the era of the crimes (in fact I will share a personal image with you that was used in a local “a stranger danger awareness” shoot back in the 1960’s.) **check out my blog.
I love the chapters with the face/jigsaw puzzle slowly revealing the face of the accused.
The research led narrative is presented in easily digested vocabulary, and without personal intervention, I like this tyle op presentation for true crime writing. I absolutely abhor true crime where the writer thinks that their opinions are valuable in the story, in my opinion, they are not, it should be the reader who decides what they take/believe/ understand from the facts presented.
This is another great read from the talented Katherine Kovacic.
I love the chapters with the face/jigsaw puzzle slowly revealing the face of the accused.
The research led narrative is presented in easily digested vocabulary, and without personal intervention, I like this tyle op presentation for true crime writing. I absolutely abhor true crime where the writer thinks that their opinions are valuable in the story, in my opinion, they are not, it should be the reader who decides what they take/believe/ understand from the facts presented.
This is another great read from the talented Katherine Kovacic.
July 10, 2024
It's an interesting story but it's lost amongst the usual over information.
March 3, 2025
The terrible murders of four young girls that occurred in 1930s Melbourne, happened at a time when policing methods were more rudimentary than they are now. Absences of detailed photography of crime scenes, lack of scientific evidence (compared to nowadays), and the lack of criminal profiling, to name but a few examples of the times, made it difficult to catch the murderer.
There was no notion of the term “serial killer” and for some time the police believed they were looking for discrete murderers. Little was known as to why one would commit such heinous acts, or what constitutes a “psychopath” by today’s knowledge of such perpetrators.
However, through the dogged persistence of police, and some good fortune, the murderer of four innocent blameless young girls was eventually found, and ultimately hanged for his crimes.
The book outlines the crimes, wrongful arrests, catching the killer, and general course of events, the trial, the appeals, and the aftermath. The author presents a well-written considered account of the circumstances and a measured rationale of what happened.
There was no notion of the term “serial killer” and for some time the police believed they were looking for discrete murderers. Little was known as to why one would commit such heinous acts, or what constitutes a “psychopath” by today’s knowledge of such perpetrators.
However, through the dogged persistence of police, and some good fortune, the murderer of four innocent blameless young girls was eventually found, and ultimately hanged for his crimes.
The book outlines the crimes, wrongful arrests, catching the killer, and general course of events, the trial, the appeals, and the aftermath. The author presents a well-written considered account of the circumstances and a measured rationale of what happened.
Read
February 12, 2021cw: death, murder (of children), sexual assault (involving children)
i'd never heard of this case before, despite living in australia, and i was really fascinated by how it all played out. i tend not to rate non-fiction, but kovacic did a great job keeping you invested. i didn't even want to google this case because i wanted to find out how it was solved by following along in the book. it's such a tragic and heartbreaking case and it's hard to fathom how things like this can happen. thinking of the victims and their families.
i'd never heard of this case before, despite living in australia, and i was really fascinated by how it all played out. i tend not to rate non-fiction, but kovacic did a great job keeping you invested. i didn't even want to google this case because i wanted to find out how it was solved by following along in the book. it's such a tragic and heartbreaking case and it's hard to fathom how things like this can happen. thinking of the victims and their families.
May 29, 2021
One thing is certain from this meticulously researched and well narrated book - that police lie - if they don’t have the right answer they will make one up and they will try try try and get it to stick
I was horrified at this book - the crimes, the police, the eventual “solution” well done.
It was a different time but some things don’t change.
Parks planned to give people space fresh air & freedom, ended up being a hunting ground
Good intentions- bad outcomes
This is a cautionary tale for many reasons.
I was horrified at this book - the crimes, the police, the eventual “solution” well done.
It was a different time but some things don’t change.
Parks planned to give people space fresh air & freedom, ended up being a hunting ground
Good intentions- bad outcomes
This is a cautionary tale for many reasons.
November 17, 2024
The author has done some great research before writing this book. However it wasn’t a gripping book.
Learn more about why we rate this book with less stars then we use to. And how come we would still read more books by this author.
Get all the info here:
https://noircrime.com/review/a-serial... (NOTE: we are starting a new website)
Learn more about why we rate this book with less stars then we use to. And how come we would still read more books by this author.
Get all the info here:
https://noircrime.com/review/a-serial... (NOTE: we are starting a new website)
March 31, 2021
An absolutely unputdownable book about a series of murders that occurred in Australia during the 1930s. Very well-written and researched.
February 8, 2021
THE SCHOOLGIRL STRANGER is a true crime book written by author Katherine Kovacic, as a result of something she encountered while researching Australian history for one of her earlier fictional novels (all of which are well worth reading if you've not had the luck to encounter them already).
This book is about the murder of four young girls in 1930s Victoria, Australia. Keeping the stories of the girls themselves foremost in the narrative, Kovacic uncovers the police struggle to identify potential suspects, especially in the time before quick communications, easily accessible records, and forensic techniques. It's also the story of what false accusations can do to somebody, and the terrifying prospect of a perfectly normal seeming person, living and working amongst us all, who is capable of the most awful crimes, and what's more sobering, seemingly willing and able to almost justify or qualify them in his own mind.
The story of what happened to Mena Griffiths (aged 12), Hazel Wilson (16), Ethel Belshaw (12) and June Rushmer (6) wasn't known to me at all before this book, and you can't help but pause to think why it is that a serial killer who struck in Melbourne, and then Gippsland isn't more widely widely in our awareness. This book certainly gives you a lot of insight into the devastation that the murders caused to the families and communities. The time it took to identify potential suspects gave much pause for thought, the dithering of the police and lack of connections drawn between the killings disconcerting, and the lucky happenstance of one man suddenly wondering about a workmate's movements sobering because it was that alone that lead to the solving of June Rushmer's killing, and to the connections finally being drawn to the other murders.
The portion of the book devoted to describing the murderer's trial, his defence of insanity, and the way that the trial played out is particularly interesting. Analysis from current day perspective of the mental health background and claims of the killer, the way that the defence structured their argument over psychopathy and the influence of alcohol, and the blinders missed by the prosecution were illuminating to say the least.
Structured slightly as a thriller in the early stages, THE SCHOOLGIRL STRANGLER strikes an excellent balance between readability, analysis and consideration of the killer's motivations and actions, whilst never allowing the reader to forget that because of his actions, there were four young girls whose lives were ended cruelly, prematurely and most violently. Their stories really do deserve to be told and remembered.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
This book is about the murder of four young girls in 1930s Victoria, Australia. Keeping the stories of the girls themselves foremost in the narrative, Kovacic uncovers the police struggle to identify potential suspects, especially in the time before quick communications, easily accessible records, and forensic techniques. It's also the story of what false accusations can do to somebody, and the terrifying prospect of a perfectly normal seeming person, living and working amongst us all, who is capable of the most awful crimes, and what's more sobering, seemingly willing and able to almost justify or qualify them in his own mind.
The story of what happened to Mena Griffiths (aged 12), Hazel Wilson (16), Ethel Belshaw (12) and June Rushmer (6) wasn't known to me at all before this book, and you can't help but pause to think why it is that a serial killer who struck in Melbourne, and then Gippsland isn't more widely widely in our awareness. This book certainly gives you a lot of insight into the devastation that the murders caused to the families and communities. The time it took to identify potential suspects gave much pause for thought, the dithering of the police and lack of connections drawn between the killings disconcerting, and the lucky happenstance of one man suddenly wondering about a workmate's movements sobering because it was that alone that lead to the solving of June Rushmer's killing, and to the connections finally being drawn to the other murders.
The portion of the book devoted to describing the murderer's trial, his defence of insanity, and the way that the trial played out is particularly interesting. Analysis from current day perspective of the mental health background and claims of the killer, the way that the defence structured their argument over psychopathy and the influence of alcohol, and the blinders missed by the prosecution were illuminating to say the least.
Structured slightly as a thriller in the early stages, THE SCHOOLGIRL STRANGLER strikes an excellent balance between readability, analysis and consideration of the killer's motivations and actions, whilst never allowing the reader to forget that because of his actions, there were four young girls whose lives were ended cruelly, prematurely and most violently. Their stories really do deserve to be told and remembered.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
January 28, 2021
Katherine Kovacic has proven herself an excellent crime writer, beginning with her debut, The Portrait of Molly Dean (a fictionalised take on the real 1930 Melbourne murder of 25-year-old Dean) and its sequel, the wholly fictional Painting in the Shadows (featuring the same art historian dealer/sleuth Alex Clayton).
With The Schoolgirl Strangler, Kovacic takes on true crime, detailing the Melbourne murders of four schoolgirls between 1930 and 1935. The deaths were the work of a serial killer before the word was invented, and Kovacic explores each killing and case in chronological order before coming to the arrest and trial of the man responsible.
It can be tricky to write true crime of this nature without giving undue attention to a man who murdered children and was, unlike cinematic serial killers, was lucky rather than clever in evading capture, particularly when it came to the police investigations, which time after time arrested and even tried the wrong people.
By focusing on the lives of these girls and the investigation of their deaths, Kovacic keeps paints a more involved picture of the impact of the crime on the girls, their families, the wrongly accused and the society in which they lived. Her respect for the girls and their families includes the simple facts of their deaths without prurient detail.
Kovacic has a clear, concise style that engages from the beginning, particularly in describing the lives of 12-year-old Mena Griffiths, 16-year-old Hazel Williams, 12-year-old Ethel Belshaw and 6-year-old June Rushmer. The consequences for the people in their lives, and those who were wrongly accused, are laid out with compassion and restraint.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is paced like a thriller, so if you’re not already aware of the history, the perpetrator’s name isn’t shared until his arrest afterJune Rushmer’s murder in 1935. (In deference to this deliberate choice, I won’t name him here either.)
The account of the killer’s trial, including transcripts of evidence, counsel’s comments and the judge’s questions and directions to the jury, a little drier, but Kovacic manages to keep a light touch and the pace moving well.
It’s not until after the killer’s conviction and the several appeals before his execution that Kovacic inserts more significant analysis, as she explores some of the evidence provided at the trial about the killer’s state of mind. She does an excellent job of looking back with a modern perspective on mental health and psychopathy and dissecting claims that the killer was criminally insane at the time he committed the murders. It’s a satisfying round-up of some of the questions raised and insufficiently answered according to the best knowledge of the 1930s.
In that round-up, Kovacic also notes a potential but minor link with the still unsolved murder of Molly Dean.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is a well told (or perhaps retold) story of these shocking murders, hitting just the right tone of respect for those lost girls and the families that had to go on afterwards and the examination of the mind of a perpetrator.
With The Schoolgirl Strangler, Kovacic takes on true crime, detailing the Melbourne murders of four schoolgirls between 1930 and 1935. The deaths were the work of a serial killer before the word was invented, and Kovacic explores each killing and case in chronological order before coming to the arrest and trial of the man responsible.
It can be tricky to write true crime of this nature without giving undue attention to a man who murdered children and was, unlike cinematic serial killers, was lucky rather than clever in evading capture, particularly when it came to the police investigations, which time after time arrested and even tried the wrong people.
By focusing on the lives of these girls and the investigation of their deaths, Kovacic keeps paints a more involved picture of the impact of the crime on the girls, their families, the wrongly accused and the society in which they lived. Her respect for the girls and their families includes the simple facts of their deaths without prurient detail.
Kovacic has a clear, concise style that engages from the beginning, particularly in describing the lives of 12-year-old Mena Griffiths, 16-year-old Hazel Williams, 12-year-old Ethel Belshaw and 6-year-old June Rushmer. The consequences for the people in their lives, and those who were wrongly accused, are laid out with compassion and restraint.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is paced like a thriller, so if you’re not already aware of the history, the perpetrator’s name isn’t shared until his arrest afterJune Rushmer’s murder in 1935. (In deference to this deliberate choice, I won’t name him here either.)
The account of the killer’s trial, including transcripts of evidence, counsel’s comments and the judge’s questions and directions to the jury, a little drier, but Kovacic manages to keep a light touch and the pace moving well.
It’s not until after the killer’s conviction and the several appeals before his execution that Kovacic inserts more significant analysis, as she explores some of the evidence provided at the trial about the killer’s state of mind. She does an excellent job of looking back with a modern perspective on mental health and psychopathy and dissecting claims that the killer was criminally insane at the time he committed the murders. It’s a satisfying round-up of some of the questions raised and insufficiently answered according to the best knowledge of the 1930s.
In that round-up, Kovacic also notes a potential but minor link with the still unsolved murder of Molly Dean.
The Schoolgirl Strangler is a well told (or perhaps retold) story of these shocking murders, hitting just the right tone of respect for those lost girls and the families that had to go on afterwards and the examination of the mind of a perpetrator.
March 11, 2021
Hard to say that 'you really like' a book about a murderer, but I did. Kovacic does an amazing amount of research and manages to marry that with writing a readable and sensitive book about the dreadful murders. She honours the girls themselves, I appreciated that (being female). I liked how she included the language of the time, but also at the end summarised some of the findings (in retrospect and with a modern eye). A Melbourne artist John Blackman painted a series called The Schoolgirl - and they are all very spooky, I wondered if these murders influenced him in some way? (As well as the Gun Alley Murder at around the same time). Reading how the prosecution tries to blame the victim - she was 12 years old - unfortunately some things have not changed. :-(
March 25, 2025
Almost a 4/5. Thought it would be a 4/5, but the trial and writing bogged it down. Still a strong 3/5. More like a 3+/5. Another issue is Arnold Sodeman. We don't get a whole lot of who Arnold Sodeman really was, his personality, etc. Not technically the fault of the author considering all these people are basically dead. This case was in the 1930's during the Great depression, but still.
But right up to the trial, the book is really good. Classic true crime.
The author describes each crime, witness, how the community reacted, the investigation, the family members and friends of the victims, and court proceedings. All of which is really good. At the same time, I would of loved some photos. There isn't any except a puzzle of Arnold Sodeman's face, with pieces of his face being put into place with each chapter. I also would of liked to have read a little bit more about Australia during the Great depression.
The first victim killed by Arnold Sodeman, Mena Griffifths was not just the first victim of Arnold Sodeman; during his killing spree in the 1930's but was also the only victim to actually be sexually assaulted. Sodeman denied any of the murders were sexually motivated and when it came to the sexual assault of Mena, his excuse was "I don't remember" "If I did do that, it's something I can't remember doing." The author then concludes that since only the first victim was sexually abused and not the rest, that the murders overall were not sexually motivated since he "didn't enjoy the rape" of his first victim, since he didn't repeat it with the rest of his victims. But this ignores many many nuances and what we know of serial sexual homicide.
There are several reasons why Sodeman may of not been sexually active; that's the key word "active" during the crimes. One is that he was impotent, and on this one occasion was able to get it up. Richard Chase aka "The vampire of Sacramento" was also impotent, but he was able to sexually assault one of his victims. Another reason is that....while it may not look to be a sexually motivated crime, doesn't mean it wasn't because so often the VIOLENCE inflicted on the victim is sexual. Whether it be Piquerism, vampirism, cannibalism, the very act of strangulation it's self, the very act of murder it's self, it's still a sexually motivated crime. Peter Kurten, he got sexually aroused by strangling his victims; didn't have to commit any sexual offense against them. He even told victims as he strangled them "This is what love feels like". He even stabbed a man in the back and got sexually aroused just by the blood. Even if it was in the dark. I can imagine Kurten was able to feel the warm blood as he stabbed him, and Kurten even said in his minds eye he could envision the blood gushing out as he stabbed. He slit the throat of a little girl after strangling her. Kurten had many many sexual fetishes. He was like Albert Fish in that respect; a smorgasbord of sexual fetishes and he admitted, just seeing the victims blood was able to bring him to orgasm.
Andrei Chickatilo, a Russia serial killer was impotent, but his crimes were without a doubt sexually motivated. Instead of using his useless penis he used a knife to penetrate his victims. He also enjoyed the blood, bit pieces off his victims body, disemboweled the victims. All of which was sexual and he would have multiple orgasms through out the murder and butchering.
Joachim Kroll, another serial killer who did rape almost all of his victims, but the act of strangulation and butchering the victims was very arousing to him. He admitted, seeing a pig being brutally butchered in a slaughter house filled him with sexual ecstasy, brought him to orgasm and made him want to kill.
So it's highly likely that Arnold Sodeman was getting sexually aroused by strangling the victims, even murdering these victims. Also, several of the victims, while not sexually assaulted, still had their lower bodies, their nudity exposed.
Another perfect example would be a German serial killer during the 1940's in Nazi Germany. Paul Ogorzow. He was attacking, sexually assaulting women during the German Blackouts of WW2. But then he slashed a women's throat in her house. After that he began to beat to death, with a metal rod, random women who got on the S.Bahn train. Also during the blackouts. In every case, he would beat them over the head with the metal rod, drag their body to the sliding train door and toss their bodies onto the tracks and he admitted he was getting a sexual thrill out of it. He was getting a sexual thrill from murdering these women, beating them over the head, dragging their bodies, even the act of throwing them off the train was sexual to him. He said as he was dragging them and holding them to the door, at the door, and throwing them out he could feel their breasts. Which gave him sexual pleasure.
So I don't buy for a second that these weren't sexual crimes.
The crimes them selves were also pretty brazen, and totally contract Sodeman's version of events. Where he tried to imply that these crimes just happened, but it was clear he was trying to hide his face, had his hat down so they couldn't see his face. It was also clear, from multiple witnesses that like a lot of serial killers, it was a numbers game. He was looking for victims, stalking the streets. At the same time, the crimes were also all about opportunity. He wasn't stalking the streets, but just on the look out for an opportunity to exploit.
Now through out the book/investigation, in every single case except the last case an innocent man was accused. A former inmate who was just released, a father of a victim. There was one part of the book, the 3rd murder case where it was describing the movements of people. The victim, another little girl had gone to a local beach on New years day, with her best friend's family, and their friends. During the beach festivities, Sodeman came into contact with her, lured her away and murdered her.
And the book talks about all the people and their movements; the people in her party and there was one young man who obviously stood out and I am going "Oh, no, they are gonna falsely accuse him next." which is exactly what happened. Fortunately for these 3 men, whether it be luck, 1930's Australian mentality of actually giving a f**k about people, or whatever, all of these men were eventually cleared and the cases against them never went anywhere. Other then a "What do you think? Could he of done it? Would any reasonable person think he might be guilty? Should this even go to trial at all?" court preliminary.
And I am always going on "No notoriety" rants, and it does bring down true crime for me, since I always end up talking about it, but this is just another perfect example against this "no notoriety" nonsense. I made the exact same point after reading the book on serial mass killer/family annihilator George Hassell in the 1920's. George Hassell had murdered his entire family in 1917. He was using a fake name. After murdering them and burying their bodies in the crawlspace of his house, he moved to another state, using his real name and married again. In 1927 he murdered his new family. He later admitted to the police "I had a previous family who I murdered" now the police didn't even believe him and there was no way they could of confirmed it, unless Hassell was willing to talk. Which he wasn't. The crime was in another state, was unreported since the victims simply went missing, and he had used a different name. Well...fortunately for the victims who Hassell slaughtered in 1917 we didn't have No notoriety yet. Because the news papers reported the case. George Hassell's face was printed on the news articles about the case...and guess who saw his photo? A former neighbor who was always suspicious about the missing family and the husband who left the house, alone. Not only that former neighbor, but his ex sister in law. The neighbor and his ex wife's sister saw the photo of George Hassell; read that he had killed his entire family in another state and asked their husbands "Doesn't this Hassell guy look like Mr.Baker?" Which lead to the cases being linked and the graves of the victims being dug up and given a proper grave. Finally getting the justice and closure they deserved all those years later. GOOD THING they printed George Hassell's face and crimes in the news paper!!!!
In this case, the man was falsely accused because he was a former prisoner who was just released. His photo and name was released in the news papers as the suspect in Mena Griffifths murder. Now when he was arrested he claimed he had a ton of witnesses who could alibi him. The police said "oh we went and looked and we couldn't find anybody who could vouch for your alibi" now I think some of that was due to misinformation by the accused and some of it was probably due to police incompetence. As I was reading this I went "His name and photo is all over the news papers. Isn't anybody gonna come forward? I mean, in 2025, probably wouldn't happen. But this is Australia in the 1930's. You know, when people actually had morality, principals, actually gave a f**k about their fellow neighbors." and I was absolutely correct, because almost everybody who came into contact with the falsely accused came forward to vouch for him, after seeing him in the news papers. Good thing we didn't have No notoriety, right?!
Overall, a good book. I really enjoyed it, right up till the trial.
The trial didn't really add anything. They tried to argue Sodeman had a family history of "mental illness" which is absurd and the author later on points out how absurd that argument was in modern hindsight. Because it was so damn clear all the "mental illness" in the family was caused by health problems. They also tried to argue that Sodeman's drinking CAUSED him to strangle little girls.
The trial also goes through such much of what we already know. Doesn't add anything. Sodeman him self was totally absent and by that I mean, had zero interest in the trial. He was bored as hell during it apparently. Just a boring, uninteresting trial.
The ending of the book is also not very good.
So that all drags it down, but the rest was really good.
I was originally going to mention this, but I forgot to and this also is an issue I have with the overall general true crime bashing and that is cognitive empathy and vicariousness in terms of justice.
I personally have a kind of a hard time relating emotionally to people. I also have a strong sense of "this world is so unfair" and wanting justice. The world is so full of injustice. So true crime allows me to empathize with the victims and overall reality of the case. Allows me to confront it. But it's also about wanting justice in the world. I want to see these criminals get caught and their secrets exposed. Since 2008 I've been into the Original night stalker case. In 2018 the killer was finally caught; Joseph James DeAngelo...and to be honest, I could relate to all the people personally involved. To at least some degree. Several sleepless nights I would lay in bed and think to my self "I hope they catch this guy. I hope they catch me in my life time. I want to see who this guy is. I want it solved. I want those victims and the police who dedicated their lives to catching him. I want to see them get justice and closure." In fact, the night before his arrest was one of those nights. Ya, I went to bed the night before he was arrested and said to my self "I hope he's caught soon. I can't believe they haven't caught him yet; they have his DNA. I hope I see justice is done and he's fully exposed." My mom got off work and she told me "Hey, Jay. Did you hear the news?" and I said "No, what?" and she said "That guy your always talking about. That serial killer, they caught him!" and I was like "WHAT?!" "Ya, they caught him! It's all over the news and radio." and I was thrilled. It was an awesome feeling and it was awesome to see the reactions of the victims and the authorities who tracked him down, to see their reactions and their relief and gratitude. It's part of the human experience, you know? I love that. You can say it's all about "blood and gore" and "how could you want to read such terrible things" and "You know they killed people, right?" and "it's wrong to be entertained by someone else's pain and suffering." You can say that - but this is all part of humanity and the human experience and it allows so much of the human experience and that is one major reason why I love not just true crime, but history in general. Decadeology in general.
But right up to the trial, the book is really good. Classic true crime.
The author describes each crime, witness, how the community reacted, the investigation, the family members and friends of the victims, and court proceedings. All of which is really good. At the same time, I would of loved some photos. There isn't any except a puzzle of Arnold Sodeman's face, with pieces of his face being put into place with each chapter. I also would of liked to have read a little bit more about Australia during the Great depression.
The first victim killed by Arnold Sodeman, Mena Griffifths was not just the first victim of Arnold Sodeman; during his killing spree in the 1930's but was also the only victim to actually be sexually assaulted. Sodeman denied any of the murders were sexually motivated and when it came to the sexual assault of Mena, his excuse was "I don't remember" "If I did do that, it's something I can't remember doing." The author then concludes that since only the first victim was sexually abused and not the rest, that the murders overall were not sexually motivated since he "didn't enjoy the rape" of his first victim, since he didn't repeat it with the rest of his victims. But this ignores many many nuances and what we know of serial sexual homicide.
There are several reasons why Sodeman may of not been sexually active; that's the key word "active" during the crimes. One is that he was impotent, and on this one occasion was able to get it up. Richard Chase aka "The vampire of Sacramento" was also impotent, but he was able to sexually assault one of his victims. Another reason is that....while it may not look to be a sexually motivated crime, doesn't mean it wasn't because so often the VIOLENCE inflicted on the victim is sexual. Whether it be Piquerism, vampirism, cannibalism, the very act of strangulation it's self, the very act of murder it's self, it's still a sexually motivated crime. Peter Kurten, he got sexually aroused by strangling his victims; didn't have to commit any sexual offense against them. He even told victims as he strangled them "This is what love feels like". He even stabbed a man in the back and got sexually aroused just by the blood. Even if it was in the dark. I can imagine Kurten was able to feel the warm blood as he stabbed him, and Kurten even said in his minds eye he could envision the blood gushing out as he stabbed. He slit the throat of a little girl after strangling her. Kurten had many many sexual fetishes. He was like Albert Fish in that respect; a smorgasbord of sexual fetishes and he admitted, just seeing the victims blood was able to bring him to orgasm.
Andrei Chickatilo, a Russia serial killer was impotent, but his crimes were without a doubt sexually motivated. Instead of using his useless penis he used a knife to penetrate his victims. He also enjoyed the blood, bit pieces off his victims body, disemboweled the victims. All of which was sexual and he would have multiple orgasms through out the murder and butchering.
Joachim Kroll, another serial killer who did rape almost all of his victims, but the act of strangulation and butchering the victims was very arousing to him. He admitted, seeing a pig being brutally butchered in a slaughter house filled him with sexual ecstasy, brought him to orgasm and made him want to kill.
So it's highly likely that Arnold Sodeman was getting sexually aroused by strangling the victims, even murdering these victims. Also, several of the victims, while not sexually assaulted, still had their lower bodies, their nudity exposed.
Another perfect example would be a German serial killer during the 1940's in Nazi Germany. Paul Ogorzow. He was attacking, sexually assaulting women during the German Blackouts of WW2. But then he slashed a women's throat in her house. After that he began to beat to death, with a metal rod, random women who got on the S.Bahn train. Also during the blackouts. In every case, he would beat them over the head with the metal rod, drag their body to the sliding train door and toss their bodies onto the tracks and he admitted he was getting a sexual thrill out of it. He was getting a sexual thrill from murdering these women, beating them over the head, dragging their bodies, even the act of throwing them off the train was sexual to him. He said as he was dragging them and holding them to the door, at the door, and throwing them out he could feel their breasts. Which gave him sexual pleasure.
So I don't buy for a second that these weren't sexual crimes.
The crimes them selves were also pretty brazen, and totally contract Sodeman's version of events. Where he tried to imply that these crimes just happened, but it was clear he was trying to hide his face, had his hat down so they couldn't see his face. It was also clear, from multiple witnesses that like a lot of serial killers, it was a numbers game. He was looking for victims, stalking the streets. At the same time, the crimes were also all about opportunity. He wasn't stalking the streets, but just on the look out for an opportunity to exploit.
Now through out the book/investigation, in every single case except the last case an innocent man was accused. A former inmate who was just released, a father of a victim. There was one part of the book, the 3rd murder case where it was describing the movements of people. The victim, another little girl had gone to a local beach on New years day, with her best friend's family, and their friends. During the beach festivities, Sodeman came into contact with her, lured her away and murdered her.
And the book talks about all the people and their movements; the people in her party and there was one young man who obviously stood out and I am going "Oh, no, they are gonna falsely accuse him next." which is exactly what happened. Fortunately for these 3 men, whether it be luck, 1930's Australian mentality of actually giving a f**k about people, or whatever, all of these men were eventually cleared and the cases against them never went anywhere. Other then a "What do you think? Could he of done it? Would any reasonable person think he might be guilty? Should this even go to trial at all?" court preliminary.
And I am always going on "No notoriety" rants, and it does bring down true crime for me, since I always end up talking about it, but this is just another perfect example against this "no notoriety" nonsense. I made the exact same point after reading the book on serial mass killer/family annihilator George Hassell in the 1920's. George Hassell had murdered his entire family in 1917. He was using a fake name. After murdering them and burying their bodies in the crawlspace of his house, he moved to another state, using his real name and married again. In 1927 he murdered his new family. He later admitted to the police "I had a previous family who I murdered" now the police didn't even believe him and there was no way they could of confirmed it, unless Hassell was willing to talk. Which he wasn't. The crime was in another state, was unreported since the victims simply went missing, and he had used a different name. Well...fortunately for the victims who Hassell slaughtered in 1917 we didn't have No notoriety yet. Because the news papers reported the case. George Hassell's face was printed on the news articles about the case...and guess who saw his photo? A former neighbor who was always suspicious about the missing family and the husband who left the house, alone. Not only that former neighbor, but his ex sister in law. The neighbor and his ex wife's sister saw the photo of George Hassell; read that he had killed his entire family in another state and asked their husbands "Doesn't this Hassell guy look like Mr.Baker?" Which lead to the cases being linked and the graves of the victims being dug up and given a proper grave. Finally getting the justice and closure they deserved all those years later. GOOD THING they printed George Hassell's face and crimes in the news paper!!!!
In this case, the man was falsely accused because he was a former prisoner who was just released. His photo and name was released in the news papers as the suspect in Mena Griffifths murder. Now when he was arrested he claimed he had a ton of witnesses who could alibi him. The police said "oh we went and looked and we couldn't find anybody who could vouch for your alibi" now I think some of that was due to misinformation by the accused and some of it was probably due to police incompetence. As I was reading this I went "His name and photo is all over the news papers. Isn't anybody gonna come forward? I mean, in 2025, probably wouldn't happen. But this is Australia in the 1930's. You know, when people actually had morality, principals, actually gave a f**k about their fellow neighbors." and I was absolutely correct, because almost everybody who came into contact with the falsely accused came forward to vouch for him, after seeing him in the news papers. Good thing we didn't have No notoriety, right?!
Overall, a good book. I really enjoyed it, right up till the trial.
The trial didn't really add anything. They tried to argue Sodeman had a family history of "mental illness" which is absurd and the author later on points out how absurd that argument was in modern hindsight. Because it was so damn clear all the "mental illness" in the family was caused by health problems. They also tried to argue that Sodeman's drinking CAUSED him to strangle little girls.
The trial also goes through such much of what we already know. Doesn't add anything. Sodeman him self was totally absent and by that I mean, had zero interest in the trial. He was bored as hell during it apparently. Just a boring, uninteresting trial.
The ending of the book is also not very good.
So that all drags it down, but the rest was really good.
I was originally going to mention this, but I forgot to and this also is an issue I have with the overall general true crime bashing and that is cognitive empathy and vicariousness in terms of justice.
I personally have a kind of a hard time relating emotionally to people. I also have a strong sense of "this world is so unfair" and wanting justice. The world is so full of injustice. So true crime allows me to empathize with the victims and overall reality of the case. Allows me to confront it. But it's also about wanting justice in the world. I want to see these criminals get caught and their secrets exposed. Since 2008 I've been into the Original night stalker case. In 2018 the killer was finally caught; Joseph James DeAngelo...and to be honest, I could relate to all the people personally involved. To at least some degree. Several sleepless nights I would lay in bed and think to my self "I hope they catch this guy. I hope they catch me in my life time. I want to see who this guy is. I want it solved. I want those victims and the police who dedicated their lives to catching him. I want to see them get justice and closure." In fact, the night before his arrest was one of those nights. Ya, I went to bed the night before he was arrested and said to my self "I hope he's caught soon. I can't believe they haven't caught him yet; they have his DNA. I hope I see justice is done and he's fully exposed." My mom got off work and she told me "Hey, Jay. Did you hear the news?" and I said "No, what?" and she said "That guy your always talking about. That serial killer, they caught him!" and I was like "WHAT?!" "Ya, they caught him! It's all over the news and radio." and I was thrilled. It was an awesome feeling and it was awesome to see the reactions of the victims and the authorities who tracked him down, to see their reactions and their relief and gratitude. It's part of the human experience, you know? I love that. You can say it's all about "blood and gore" and "how could you want to read such terrible things" and "You know they killed people, right?" and "it's wrong to be entertained by someone else's pain and suffering." You can say that - but this is all part of humanity and the human experience and it allows so much of the human experience and that is one major reason why I love not just true crime, but history in general. Decadeology in general.
July 2, 2021
The Schoolgirl Strangler was an absolutely harrowing read. Kovacic does not hold back with the violent and graphic details of these crimes, and given their nature in that they were against young, innocent children, I found it hard to stomach at times (as expected).
But it was such a compelling, well-told story that I couldn't put it down, as much as I wanted to and instead just curl under the covers and pretend none of it ever happened.
The level of detail and research that went into this book is truly astounding - Katherine has done a remarkable job at showcasing what a police investigation looked like in Melbourne in the 1930s, and the shortcomings of those methods. It's a book about a serial killer and his victims, yes, but it's also about the way crime affects us, our human desperation for solutions and closure, the morality of the death penalty, and the psychology behind criminal acts.
We're very excited to have Katherine Kovacic in-store here at Farrells on 28th July 2021 to delve into these topics more, and to discuss what drew her to these young girl's stories and why she felt compelled to tell them.
Tickets to our crime panel event can be purchased here: https://www.trybooking.com/BRNQX
- Read by Celeste
But it was such a compelling, well-told story that I couldn't put it down, as much as I wanted to and instead just curl under the covers and pretend none of it ever happened.
The level of detail and research that went into this book is truly astounding - Katherine has done a remarkable job at showcasing what a police investigation looked like in Melbourne in the 1930s, and the shortcomings of those methods. It's a book about a serial killer and his victims, yes, but it's also about the way crime affects us, our human desperation for solutions and closure, the morality of the death penalty, and the psychology behind criminal acts.
We're very excited to have Katherine Kovacic in-store here at Farrells on 28th July 2021 to delve into these topics more, and to discuss what drew her to these young girl's stories and why she felt compelled to tell them.
Tickets to our crime panel event can be purchased here: https://www.trybooking.com/BRNQX
- Read by Celeste
March 24, 2021
Swore I would never read another heinous crime book after the Anita Cobby true crime book I received one Christmas years and years ago. Seriously VERY Disturbing!
This is too, though reads a bit like a crime thriller... not sure if that’s the best description.
Kovacic has obviously done some full on research and writes an exacting narrative.
Bit of a page turner and some outcomes that stop you in your tracks. Times have changed!!
This is too, though reads a bit like a crime thriller... not sure if that’s the best description.
Kovacic has obviously done some full on research and writes an exacting narrative.
Bit of a page turner and some outcomes that stop you in your tracks. Times have changed!!
September 14, 2021
Kovacic has managed to pack a world of detail into her book, and none of it is boring in the least. I was gripped by the investigations and by the court case. Thoroughly recommend it to true crime buffs.
February 18, 2021
A great true crime read. Using actual primary sources. A mystery solved! Thanks librarians!!
April 1, 2025
Katherine Kovacic’s The Schoolgirl Strangler is a well-researched and detailed true crime account that sheds light on a disturbing chapter in early 20th-century Australia. The level of research is impressive, painting a vivid picture of both the crimes and the era in which they took place. Kovacic does a great job of setting the scene, making it easy to get immersed in the time period and investigative methods of the time.
The book starts off strong, with a gripping pace that keeps the story moving. However, once it reaches the trial phase, the pacing slows down quite a bit. While the legal proceedings are undoubtedly important, the level of detail here feels a little excessive, making this section drag compared to the first half of the book.
Since I mostly listened to the audiobook, I have to say the narrator did a fantastic job. Their delivery was expressive yet professional, bringing the story to life in a way that felt both emotional and journalistic. It really helped maintain engagement, especially during some of the denser parts.
Overall, The Schoolgirl Strangler is a solid read for true crime fans who appreciate historical context and deep research. If you prefer fast-paced storytelling, some parts might feel a little slow, but if you enjoy courtroom drama and detailed case studies, you’ll likely find a lot to appreciate.
The book starts off strong, with a gripping pace that keeps the story moving. However, once it reaches the trial phase, the pacing slows down quite a bit. While the legal proceedings are undoubtedly important, the level of detail here feels a little excessive, making this section drag compared to the first half of the book.
Since I mostly listened to the audiobook, I have to say the narrator did a fantastic job. Their delivery was expressive yet professional, bringing the story to life in a way that felt both emotional and journalistic. It really helped maintain engagement, especially during some of the denser parts.
Overall, The Schoolgirl Strangler is a solid read for true crime fans who appreciate historical context and deep research. If you prefer fast-paced storytelling, some parts might feel a little slow, but if you enjoy courtroom drama and detailed case studies, you’ll likely find a lot to appreciate.
March 16, 2021
In this true crime story Katherine Kovacic has first and foremost puts the victims front and centre - Mena Griffiths, Hazel Wilson, Ethel Belshaw and June Rushmer. THE SCHOOLGIRL STRANGLER follows the case from the beginning, starting on a 31 degree day in Melbourne on 8th November 1930, the day Mena Griffiths goes missing. What follows is a true mystery as girls and young women seemingly vanish in public, their bodies discovered later. After reading this true story I have perhaps become over cautious with my kids, but it is the horror of these abductions in plain sight, often close to home, that has never left me. Kovacic has written a page turner and thrilling read while doing an excellent job of sticking to the facts of the case, always respecting the victims, and never sensationalising what is a hunt for a serial killer (before that is what they were called) that kept a State in fear for years. Highly recommend. Full disclosure Katherine Kovacic is my writing BFF and I am so proud of her work on this.
April 17, 2021
It’s true the subject matter of this book was at times gruesome, but Kovacic handled it so it was not so much gratuitous, and more a look at the wider Melbourne community in the 1930s.
It follows the murders of four little girls, aged 6-16, in and around Melbourne between 1930 and 1935. This extremely well-researched book covers the crimes but also the often-bungled police attempts to secure the criminal. Kovacic builds up a complete story around the victims, the several accused men, the community, the trial process and the police investigation. As a mother, what stood out to me was the freedom little kids as young as six were given to wander the streets alone. With little realisation of these types of gruesome crimes then, unlike today, I realised it was a much simpler life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this deep dive into the story of a serial killer I had heard of but knew almost nothing about.
The @heraldsunphoto covered this story in a recent episode of their podcast In Black and White, which I’m now looking forward to listening to.
It follows the murders of four little girls, aged 6-16, in and around Melbourne between 1930 and 1935. This extremely well-researched book covers the crimes but also the often-bungled police attempts to secure the criminal. Kovacic builds up a complete story around the victims, the several accused men, the community, the trial process and the police investigation. As a mother, what stood out to me was the freedom little kids as young as six were given to wander the streets alone. With little realisation of these types of gruesome crimes then, unlike today, I realised it was a much simpler life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this deep dive into the story of a serial killer I had heard of but knew almost nothing about.
The @heraldsunphoto covered this story in a recent episode of their podcast In Black and White, which I’m now looking forward to listening to.
June 5, 2021
Thank you to Sisters in Crime Australia for my copy.
I've never heard of these crimes committed in 1930's Victoria or ever heard the killer's name or nickname.
The author has really done a great job and thorough research of the crimes, the search by Police and the public for the missing girls, interviews and forensics. The first two thirds of the book I enjoyed the most, but the last part with the trial and the dissecting of the killer's statements I found a little bit lengthy.
I really liked the chapter breaks which has a photo of the killer's face being revealed like a jigsaw puzzle one piece at a time. I've never seen that done before and it is really effective.
The Police made their mistakes with the first murder and fixated on the wrong person, but I was surprised at the forensics used back then. Of course they didn't have the technology we have now, but I didn't know they were using some of the methods back then.
A pretty good read overall that any crime buff would enjoy reading.
I've never heard of these crimes committed in 1930's Victoria or ever heard the killer's name or nickname.
The author has really done a great job and thorough research of the crimes, the search by Police and the public for the missing girls, interviews and forensics. The first two thirds of the book I enjoyed the most, but the last part with the trial and the dissecting of the killer's statements I found a little bit lengthy.
I really liked the chapter breaks which has a photo of the killer's face being revealed like a jigsaw puzzle one piece at a time. I've never seen that done before and it is really effective.
The Police made their mistakes with the first murder and fixated on the wrong person, but I was surprised at the forensics used back then. Of course they didn't have the technology we have now, but I didn't know they were using some of the methods back then.
A pretty good read overall that any crime buff would enjoy reading.
December 30, 2022
This was a very interesting book. Seemed well researched using inquest and trial transcripts, media reporting and police records. Between 1930 and 1935 four girls were killed in Victoria. This goes thru the missteps in investigations, the fluke that saw the perpetrator brought in for questioning and his confession. Couple of takeouts:
* The trusting nature of children which creates special vulnerability;
*The ability of psychopaths to hide in plain sight;
*The importance of DNA to modern policing;
*The changed frames of reference on criminality & loss of the collective innocence;
*There’s so much we don’t know;
* Obfuscation and victim blaming remain ever present in raising reasonable doubt.
I could go on. It’s a good read. And a reminder that the bad has always walked among us.
* The trusting nature of children which creates special vulnerability;
*The ability of psychopaths to hide in plain sight;
*The importance of DNA to modern policing;
*The changed frames of reference on criminality & loss of the collective innocence;
*There’s so much we don’t know;
* Obfuscation and victim blaming remain ever present in raising reasonable doubt.
I could go on. It’s a good read. And a reminder that the bad has always walked among us.
February 28, 2021
This book is about the murders cases of four school girls spanned from 1930 - 1935, Mena Griffiths, Hazel Wilson, Ethel Belshaw and June Rushmer.
All victims were gagged in their mouth, strangled in the neck and hands tied behind their back, died from suffocation and strangulation. The story spelled out chronologically from the victims, the suspects, the police actions, the trial and the execution.
How different the police investigations done on that year, without any CCTV camera, tracker, mobile phone, and DNA tracing; most are depend on people's reports and interviews.
It's truly one historical Melbourne based historical crime!
All victims were gagged in their mouth, strangled in the neck and hands tied behind their back, died from suffocation and strangulation. The story spelled out chronologically from the victims, the suspects, the police actions, the trial and the execution.
How different the police investigations done on that year, without any CCTV camera, tracker, mobile phone, and DNA tracing; most are depend on people's reports and interviews.
It's truly one historical Melbourne based historical crime!
April 21, 2024
Being a relative to Mena Griffiths, it was challenging for me to approach this book. However, having now done so, I find myself grateful to have a better understanding and insight to a part of my family history. The story is undoubtedly heartbreaking, yet the book itself is crafted with exceptional care and thorough research. The author’s ability to portray the historical crimes and the ensuing investigations with such clarity and attention to detail, despite the passage of over 90 years, is truly remarkable. Well written and meticulously researched.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews