My Friend Dahmer

First of all, I know what you're wondering: no, this dude's parents did not name him “Derf Backderf,” that is a nickname he has chosen to use professionally. His given first name is John. I know: whew.

OK. Anyway. I checked this out 2 months ago because it was on some list of best graphic novels for teens and I was like, REALLY? But then it sat in my bag forever because I was really reluctant to read it, because I hate gross things. And then I opened it and the first page is about young Jeffrey Dahmer finding a roadkill cat. And then I closed it for awhile.

Anyway I finally sucked it up and read it and it's not that gross! Like not graphically gross anyway. The first few pages are probably the physically grossest and after that it's more psychologically gross. It's definitely a compelling read. I guess it's okay for teens. It really is JUST about Dahmer's teen years and cuts off when they graduate high school, so no murder/cannibalism/etc.

I kind of wonder about the teen appeal? Do today's teens even know who Dahmer is? IDK. But as a story about a high school misfit, it's pretty solid, especially since the reader knows the story's true tragic ending.

Oh and the art was fine, cartoony and kinda R Crumb-y. I also appreciated the footnotes, since it's been awhile since I read anything about Jeffrey Dahmer.