A girl on a farm is devoured by pigs. A walker’s throat is slit by the broken-off blade of a lawn mower after it hits a stone. A woman fires 13 bullets into the body of her seemingly sleeping father but is cleared of murder because he had died of an aneurysm three hours earlier.
These are just some of the miniature tragedies that fill the pages of the books by Belgian forensic pathologist Philippe Boxho. His bestsellers currently hold the top three spots on France’s nonfiction charts, captivating readers with their macabre yet darkly comic and, most importantly, true stories.
In an interview with the Guardian, Boxho, a medical examiner turned publishing sensation, shared that his writing is based on real events that are sometimes so unimaginable that they defy fiction. His trilogy, which is nearing 1 million copies sold, delves into the intricacies of his work, from cutting open bodies to examining the dead in order to uncover the truth behind their demise.
With detailed medical descriptions, Boxho’s books provide a glimpse into the world of forensic pathology, dispelling myths perpetuated by popular TV shows like CSI. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the reality of his profession, which is often glamorized and misunderstood in the media.
Beyond the sensationalism, Boxho’s main goal is to shed light on the challenges faced by forensic pathologists, including chronic underfunding and misconceptions about their work. By sharing his experiences and expertise, he hopes to garner support for his field and raise awareness about the complexities of death investigation.
Despite the grim subject matter, Boxho infuses his narratives with humor and cynicism, acknowledging that laughter can be a coping mechanism in the face of death. His unique perspective, shaped by years of experience and thousands of autopsies, offers readers a glimpse into a world that is both fascinating and sobering.
As his books continue to gain international acclaim and translations into multiple languages, Boxho remains committed to portraying the reality of death investigation with honesty and respect. Through his writing, he challenges readers to confront the inherent mysteries of mortality and the profound impact of the work done by forensic pathologists.
In a society that often shies away from discussing death, Boxho’s unflinching portrayal of the truth serves as a reminder of the fragility and complexity of life. His books invite readers to contemplate the nature of mortality and the role of those who seek answers in the face of death’s mysteries.