Coroner's Journal: Stalking Death in Louisiana : Louis Cataldie, M.D.

Sheila's Opinion: 4.5 stars
Having read several nonfiction accounts by some of the more publicly recognizable names in the forensics field, I usually know what to expect from this genre. Usually it’s an insider’s viewpoint of famous – or at least noteworthy – cases from national headlines. Usually told in graphic and somewhat cold and clinical technical language surrounding procedures, tests, DNA, criminal profiling, crime scenes and on and on until it’s numbing tedium. And in some instances, I get the impression it’s about self-serving sensationalism with a nice helping of ego boosting. More times than not, the human quality is lost in these tellings.

Coroner’s Journal is unlike any I’ve ever read. I was instantly struck by the humanity in his no-nonsense, no-bullshit style. He has a deep emotional connection, compassion and respect for those victims and families that pass through his morgue. As a public servant he takes his job very seriously and gives -- and expects -- nothing less than 100%.

Other than the Derek Todd Lee case, the victims in his journal are virtual unknowns. Local crimes, local victims making no impact except for the grieving loved ones left behind to deal with the aftermath. It takes a toll, and he is not immune to the fallout: anger, rage, sadness, disbelief and wonder. Death leaves pain and misery in its wake, and Cataldie doesn’t mince words to drive that point home.

Very fine reading, and highly recommended to fans of this genre.

Beth's Opinion: 4.5 stars
I love forensics. It's a fascinating science and a relatively new field when it comes to crime-solving. I've read a lot of the books and seen most of the shows but those are usually told from the viewpoint of the officers and victims, or in some cases, the families of the victims. It's very rare to get an inside look at the effect death can have and no one can provide a better look then the man that deals with death everyday. For the Baton Rouge parish coroner, Louis Cataldie, death and life became such integral parts of his being that he felt it necessary to chronicle his journey and share it with those of us who for the most part live blessedly sheilded from such things. It's a journey that I would personally never have found the strength for and I commend him for it.

Cataldie faced a number of famous (and infamous) cases in his tenure as coroner and medical examiner. The most famous case he was involved with was the serial killing spree of Derek Todd Lee, which ran from the early 90's well into the new millenium. Cataldie was there, on the scene, for each new discovery. He catalogued the scene and did his best to comfort the families, knowing in his heart that no comfort was really possible. He was also involved in one of the first murders involving the DC snipers.

One of the Cataldie's best efforts while in office was the creation of the LOSS group. They are a suicide response group that gets called in as soon as the coroner arrives on the scene. These are not paid professionals. They are volunteers who have each been through the loss of a family member through suicide and so are perhaps best equipped to help deal with the feelings of loss and confusion that can result. Cataldie could call them at anytime, day or night, and they would be there. It is these individuals who have helped in more ways then anyone can realize.

This book is one of the finest that I have ever read in this genre. Cataldie is honest and forthwright, almost to a fault. He doesn't bullshit and he doesn't attempt to sugar-coat anything. If he thinks someone messed up he says it and backs up that opinion with valid reasoning. for all intents and purposes he appears to be a truly good and honest man, and the opening section regarding Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will attest to his work-ethic and his feeling of responsibility, both to the victims and survivors, of the horrific events that can befall us. I recommend this to any fan of the genre. you will see a side that is rarely shown and should be seen much more.

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Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade; Reprint edition (February 6, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0425213552
ISBN-13: 978-0425213551
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