Is 'Diary Of A Murderer And Other Stories' Worth Reading?

2026-01-06 20:05:38
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3 Answers

Ulysses
Ulysses
Favorite read: A Killer’s Diary
Insight Sharer Student
That collection hit me like a freight train—in the best way possible. Kim Young-ha’s 'Diary of a Murderer and Other Stories' isn’t just a series of thrillers; it’s a deep dive into the human psyche, wrapped in deceptively simple prose. The title story, about a serial killer with Alzheimer’s, is brutally poetic. I found myself sympathizing with a murderer, which unsettled me for days. The way memory and morality blur in that narrative is masterful.

The shorter pieces are just as gripping. 'The Origin of Life' has this eerie, almost surreal vibe that lingers. What I love is how Kim plays with genre—crime, horror, existential drama—all while keeping the focus on characters who feel painfully real. If you enjoy stories that unsettle and provoke, this one’s a gem. It’s the kind of book that makes you stare at the wall afterward, questioning everything.
2026-01-11 12:34:16
7
Xanthe
Xanthe
Favorite read: Murderer
Insight Sharer Assistant
I picked up 'Diary of a Murderer' on a whim, and wow, did it mess with my head. The way Kim Young-ha writes about darkness isn’t just about shock value; it’s about vulnerability. Take the Alzheimer’s angle in the main story—it turns a predator into someone fragile, which is such a twisted yet fascinating dynamic. The prose is crisp, almost minimalist, but it carries so much weight.

What surprised me was the humor. There’s this dry, morbid wit threading through even the bleakest moments. 'The Origin of Life' had me laughing uncomfortably at how absurdly grim life can be. It’s not for everyone—some scenes are genuinely disturbing—but if you like psychological depth with your thrills, this collection delivers. I still think about that ending months later.
2026-01-12 04:36:46
20
Madison
Madison
Favorite read: How To Love A Murderer.
Sharp Observer Firefighter
Kim Young-ha’s collection is a masterclass in tension. 'Diary of a Murderer' isn’t your typical crime fiction; it’s quieter, more introspective. The Alzheimer’s twist adds this heartbreaking layer—you watch a man lose his grip on reality, including his own crimes. The other stories are equally strong, especially 'The Origin of Life,' which feels like a fever dream. The writing’s so vivid, it sticks to your ribs. If you’re into stories that blend existential dread with page-turning plots, this one’s a must-read. Just maybe don’t start it before bed.
2026-01-12 06:14:48
17
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