The result of 15 years of research and exclusive information, this is the first book of investigative journalism to tell the complete story of Littleton, Colorado's 1999 mass shooting, its far-reaching consequences, and common characteristics among public shooters across the country. A classic in the tradition of "In Cold Blood "and "The Executioner's Song," it comprehensively explores fundamental American themes of violence, racism, parenting, and policing. This updated and revised edition concludes with new material about public shootings since Columbine and how communities can stop such horrific events from happening in the future.

It's hard to be a teacher. Hard to be a father. Harder still to be a husband. How do you survive? You look for joy everywhere you can. You write poems about those moments to keep them alive in your breast. These poems represent hope for a better tomorrow.