Kidnappers of the 1920s and 1930s preyed on Hollywood socialites, the wealthy, and even the poor. Newspapers exploited the public's fascination and fear, and reporters had free reign to investigate clues and extract confessions. This book chronicles 15 cases from the period, chronicling the relationship between the news media and high-profile crime. Vintage b&w police and newspaper photos are included. The audience for the book includes general readers and readers interested in the history of mass media. Smith writes on California's history. Rogers is a Western historian. Annotation 2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
