womens studies

The shocking tragedy of the Yates children is hard to cope with. When this book was released I didn't want to go near it. But something about understanding how a mother could do such a thing drew me near.

Yes this is a book that seemed rushed, yes it's about a case no one wants to ADMIT to reading about. But none the less it is a GOOD true crime book. Suzy Spencer puts together a excellent story filled with details, and information on some of the explanations.

Although I will never fully understand, I feel I am somewhat more enlightened.

It's a tragic book, but then again aren't most true crime books?

As an avid reader of true crime books, and as a mother of three, I was drawn to the story of Andrea Yates. While some argue that surely she had to be insane to commit such an incomprehensible act, others are ready to pull the switch, so to speak. This book gives some insight as to the inadequacies of our mental health treatment system, and outlines the many times Andrea might have been helped, but tragically was not.

Breaking Point was clearly written in a hurry, to get it onto the shelves while the trial is progressing. At random points through the story, Spencer refers to a radical preacher, of sorts, who seems to have had influence on the Yates family, but the extent of their relationship is not explored, nor do some of the references to the Woroneckis seem to tie into the Yates story whatsoever. It is hinted that the Yates family helped the Woroneckis financially, but no details are given.

It seems Suzy Spencer could have spent extra time doing more in-depth research of parts of this story, rather than publishing it as quickly as possible and then suing to be allowed into the courtroom to add more rushed text to the tale.

Being from Houston where this crime took place I liked the behind the scenes info on TV cameraman John Treadgold and the first police officers reaction to being first on the scene of this tragedy. The background into the families life was very detailed. Some reviewers question the book not covering the trial: but it was mainly a P.S. to the actual act anyway.