The Cannibal that Left America Hungry for More Gore

A groundbreaking biography that unravels the evolution of one of pop culture’s most enigmatic fictional figures, reviewers are eating up Hannibal Lecter: A Life –

“A beautifully written and intelligent work of literary and film history, and an incisive look at American culture writ large.”

– Kirkus (Starred Review)

“Aa remarkable feat. . . The book is a treat for readers familiar with Harris’ novels, or their film adaptations, and it’s a must-read for fans of books about film and pop culture.”

– Booklist

“A fascinating investigation of Lecter’s development from a supporting character in Red Dragon and The Silence of the Lambs to a universally known and bizarrely endearing icon.”

– BookPage

Featuring exclusive interviews with key players like actor Brian Cox and director Michael Mann, and drawing from rare archival materials from author Thomas Harris and director Jonathan Demme, Raftery crafts a compelling narrative that’s as much about Lecter as it is about our cultural obsession with serial killers and true crime.

An excerpt recently published by Longreads (link) reveals fascinating insights into the making of The Silence of the Lambs, including secrets behind the iconic poster design and genius marketing campaign, and how real-life FBI agents inspired the character of Clarice Starling.