by Philip Carlo

The Overlook Press, $25.95, 254 pages

Most fans know Philip Carlo for the work he did to meet, interview, document, and understand the minds of serial killers, psychopaths, and mafia hit men. After reading his newest and final book The Killer Within: In the Company of Monsters, fans will know Carlo for his devotion to life, commitment to those he loved, and the unwavering way he fought the disease that took his life in late 2010. I

Carlo was diagnosed with ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease), which is a debilitating terminal illness. His book is a fascinating look back at his life, how he became a journalist, and his struggle to maintain a quality of life. Throughout the book, Carlo tells readers to make the most of life even when faced with adversity. While an invalid, Carlos continued to write, travel, and love.

His wife now fights for improved ALS treatments and most importantly, she supports stem cell research. This book will inspire you to act. Writing your legislative representative to share your opinion on the use of stem cells would be a good start.

Reviewed by Elizabeth Franklin