Based on new interviews, this revealing account of one of the most notorious criminals in American history puts Manson in the context of his times, the turbulent end of the 60s, revealing a rock star wannabe whose killings were directly related to his musical ambitions. After more than forty years, Charles Manson continues to mystify and fascinate us. Manson and members of his mostly female commune killed nine people, including pregnant actress Sharon Tate. Now, drawing on new information, the author tells the definitive story of how this ordinary juvenile delinquent became a murderer whose crimes still shock and horrify today.

Charlie at the Whiskey -- Nancy and Kathleen -- Moundsville and McMechen -- Kathleen and Charlie -- McMechen again -- Prison -- Berkeley and the Haight -- Charlie in the summer of love -- L.A. -- Charlie and Dennis -- The ranches -- The Bible and the Beatles -- Thwarted dreams -- Tate -- LaBianca and Shea -- Death Valley -- Unraveling -- Charlie is famous -- The trial -- The wrong man in the right place at the right time -- Key people afterwards.