We Keep the Dead Close by Becky Cooper is a meticulously researched true crime memoir that delves deep into the unsolved 1969 murder of Harvard graduate student Jane Britton. The book, which spans a decade-long investigation, intertwines the mystery of Britton’s death with broader cultural critiques, academic politics, and the personal journey of the author herself. Cooper’s approach is both journalistic and reflective, making the book not only a search for truth but also an exploration of institutional power, sexism, and the nature of storytelling in true crime.
Summary
The story begins with Becky Cooper, then an undergraduate at Harvard, hearing rumors about the murder of Jane Britton, an archaeology student who was found dead in her apartment. For years, Britton’s case remained unsolved, fueling speculation and conspiracy theories. Some believed that Harvard professors had played a role in the crime and that a cover-up had taken place. Intrigued by the mystery and the culture of secrecy that surrounded the case, Cooper embarked on a mission to uncover the truth.
Over the course of ten years, Cooper interviewed witnesses, pored over documents, and retraced Britton’s steps, creating a complex narrative that extends far beyond a simple whodunit. The book is filled with rich details about Jane Britton’s life, painting her as a multidimensional figure rather than just a victim. Cooper’s work is a blend of true crime and memoir, in which she reflects on her own biases and assumptions as she navigates through the case.
One of the central themes in the book is the exploration of institutional misogyny at Harvard. Cooper examines the culture of academia, where women like Britton often faced significant barriers. This is highlighted through Cooper’s portrayal of the university’s handling of the case, the undercurrents of sexism in academia, and the struggles of women to be taken seriously in professional and academic settings.
Throughout the book, Cooper also reflects on the ethical implications of true crime as a genre. She grapples with the morality of retelling a real-life tragedy and questions the ways in which we consume and sensationalize stories of violence, especially against women. This self-awareness adds a layer of depth to the book, making it a meditation on the responsibilities of a storyteller.
The mystery surrounding Britton’s death eventually unravels, but the book’s resolution is far from simple. Cooper arrives at a conclusion that is both shocking and poignant, challenging the reader to think critically about the ways in which history, power, and truth are intertwined. The book also leaves readers questioning their own assumptions and judgments as they follow Cooper through the twists and turns of her investigation.
Review
We Keep the Dead Close has been praised for its thorough investigation, gripping narrative, and its blend of true crime with broader social commentary. The Wall Street Journal called it “a gripping literary nonfiction debut” that never lets readers forget the lived experience of Jane Britton. Other reviewers, such as USA Today, commended Cooper’s methodical and immersive approach to uncovering the truth. The book is noted for balancing the suspense of a murder mystery with a thoughtful critique of institutional power and gender dynamics.
One of the book’s most striking features is its examination of the nature of historical truth. Cooper’s narrative not only seeks to solve the mystery of Britton’s murder but also asks deeper questions about how we construct stories and the dangers of fitting facts into neat narratives. Patrick Radden Keefe, author of Say Nothing, described the book as a “tour de force of investigative reporting” that challenges readers to confront their own biases.
The critical reception has generally been highly favorable, with readers praising Cooper’s ability to make the academic and procedural aspects of her investigation as compelling as the murder mystery itself. Some critics, however, have pointed out that the book’s extensive details may slow the narrative at times, making it a dense read. Despite this, the intricate and layered storytelling has made We Keep the Dead Close a standout in the true crime genre, often compared to Michelle McNamara’s I’ll Be Gone in the Dark for its thoughtful blend of personal narrative and investigative journalism.
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About the Author
Becky Cooper is an investigative journalist, writer, and former producer for The New Yorker. A Harvard graduate, she was first drawn to the story of Jane Britton during her time at the university. Cooper’s investigative work on the case took over a decade, leading to the creation of We Keep the Dead Close, her debut book. Her writing is characterized by a deep commitment to exploring the intersections of power, gender, and storytelling. Cooper’s work has garnered critical acclaim for its rigor, sensitivity, and intellectual depth, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary nonfiction.
In conclusion, We Keep the Dead Close is a masterful work of true crime that goes beyond the simple retelling of a murder. It is a reflection on the nature of truth, storytelling, and the ways in which we navigate power structures, both in the past and present. Fans of the genre, as well as those interested in narratives of institutional critique and feminism, will find much to admire in Cooper’s intricately woven narrative.
