Gerold Frank

Gerold Frank (1907-1998) was an American author and journalist who pioneered the "as told to" style of biography writing. He earned two Edgar Allan Poe Awards for Best Fact Crime and was particularly known for his true crime works and celebrity memoirs. Frank's most significant works include "The Boston Strangler" (1966), which was adapted into a successful film starring Tony Curtis and Henry Fonda, and "An American Death" (1972), a detailed account of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. His celebrity biographies included works on Judy Garland and Zsa Zsa Gabor. Beginning his career as an aspiring poet in Greenwich Village, Frank later worked as a newspaper journalist and war correspondent in the Middle East during World War II. His early work included documentation of Eastern European Jewish life, including rare footage of the Warsaw Ghetto which he later donated to the Yivo Institute for Jewish Research. Frank's versatility as a writer extended from serious journalistic works to entertainment biographies, establishing him as a respected voice in multiple genres of non-fiction. His approach to biographical writing, combining thorough research with engaging narrative style, influenced the development of the modern biographical format.

Readers consistently point to Frank's investigative journalism skills and narrative pacing in his true crime works. Reviews note his ability to construct detailed chronologies while maintaining tension, particularly in "The Boston Strangler" and "An American Death." Readers appreciated: - In-depth research and primary source interviews - Clear presentation of complex investigation details - Balanced portrayal of victims and suspects Common criticisms: - Writing style can be dry and clinical - Some scenes feel overloaded with minor details - Older books show their age in terms of social perspectives Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: "The Boston Strangler" - 3.8/5 (2,100+ ratings) "An American Death" - 3.7/5 (400+ ratings) Amazon: "The Boston Strangler" - 4.1/5 (150+ reviews) "An American Death" - 4.0/5 (50+ reviews) One frequent reader comment notes Frank "values accuracy over sensationalism" while maintaining reader interest through careful pacing.

The Boston Strangler (1966) A detailed account of the serial killer who terrorized Boston between 1962-1964, including extensive interviews with Albert DeSalvo and key investigators.

An American Death (1972) A comprehensive investigation into the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., based on extensive research and interviews with witnesses and investigators.

I'll Cry Tomorrow (1954) A biographical account of actress Lillian Roth's struggle with alcoholism and her journey to recovery, told through extensive interviews with Roth herself.

Judy (1975) A biography of Judy Garland's life and career, based on interviews and research with those who knew her throughout her life and career.

The Deed (1963) A detailed examination of the assassination of Lord Moyne in Cairo by members of the Stern Gang during the British Mandate period.

U-Boat Commander (1953) A biographical account of German U-boat commander Werner Hartenstein during World War II, based on military records and survivor accounts.

Truman Capote wrote true crime narratives that merged journalism with storytelling techniques, most notably in "In Cold Blood." His detailed research methods and narrative approach to real events parallel Frank's work in true crime documentation.

Vincent Bugliosi chronicled high-profile criminal cases as both a prosecutor and author, focusing on detailed investigation and legal process. His book "Helter Skelter" about the Manson murders demonstrates similar attention to factual detail as Frank's "The Boston Strangler."

Norman Mailer produced non-fiction works that combined investigative reporting with literary techniques in books like "The Executioner's Song." His focus on high-profile crimes and social issues mirrors Frank's approach to true crime writing.

William Bradford Huie documented real-life events and social issues through investigative journalism and biographical writing. His work on civil rights era crimes shares similarities with Frank's coverage of significant historical events.

Joe McGinniss wrote true crime books that examined both the criminal acts and their impact on society. His work "Fatal Vision" demonstrates the same commitment to extensive research and detailed narrative that characterized Frank's true crime works.