Journal of the Dead — Jason Kersten

A New York Times Notable Book, Journal of the Dead is “a taut, expertly researched true crime narrative” (Boston Herald) from reporter Jason Kersten.

“A powerful story . . . one hell of a fascinating ride.” -- National Geographic Adventure

I killed and buried my best friend today . . .

When authorities found Raffi Kodikian -- barely alive -- four days after he and his friend David Coughlin became lost in Rattlesnake Canyon, they made a grim and shocking discovery. Kodikian freely admitted that he had stabbed Coughlin twice in the heart. Had there been a darker motive than mercy? And how could anyone, under any circumstances, kill his best friend?

Armed with the journal Kodikian and Coughlin carried into Rattlesnake Canyon, Jason Kersten re-creates in riveting detail those fateful days that led to the killing in an infamously unforgiving wilderness.

“Wholly absorbing.” -- New York Times Book Review

“A fascinating case, a fascinating book.” -- Anderson Cooper, CNN

“A true American tragedy, beautifully written.” -- New York Times bestselling author Tony Hillerman

“Five stars. As tough to put down as Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild.” -- Maxim