Untold Stories

This week we take a look at Jessica Knoll's Bright Young Women, my favourite book read in February 2024 (and yes I know I am very behind with my reviews!)

Every time I recommend this book I start by saying, this is a feminist retelling of the Ted Bundy killings, and nearly every one of my friends has not wanted to read it based on this so I really need to change my pitch! Trust me.. this is worth it! Every one of my friends who has read this has really enjoyed it so far.

In this novel, Knoll shifts the focus away from the infamous Bundy to highlight the stories and experiences of the women who crossed paths with him. This unique perspective challenges the traditional true-crime narrative that often sensationalises the perpetrator at the expense of the victims. You may recall in New Zealand when the mosque terror attacks happened, and the media and the politicians all united together and agreed not to name the perpetrator – this was such a powerful and important stance. Perhaps one to reflect on as you read this book?

Knoll's skill in character development shines as she delves into the lives, aspirations, and vulnerabilities of these women, offering a tribute to their individuality and humanity. I really enjoyed the main characters in this book – the character development was excellent. Her writing is both sensitive and bold, navigating the harrowing subject matter with care and a keen sense of empathy.

The novel also addresses broader themes of misogyny, media portrayal of female victims, and the systemic failures that often leave women's stories untold or misrepresented. It’s a compelling read, not just for its suspenseful elements but for its deeper commentary on society's treatment of women, both in the era of Bundy and in contemporary times. This book really made me think about the nuances of storytelling, and the way these infamous stories evolve over time.

Bright Young Women is a powerful and necessary re-examination of a notorious chapter in American crime, serving as a reminder of the often-overlooked narratives and resilience of women. It's a recommended read for those interested in true crime, feminist literature, and anyone looking for a story that challenges conventional perspectives, because life is too short to read bad books.