The Art of Explaining Crime Q&A with the author
"'What is the key to getting through to your audience?' Authenticity. I've read a considerable amount of true crime. Some of it is incredibly good. Some of it is sensationalized. Some of it is a compilation of police reports, court transcripts and newspaper articles. I wanted 'Goodbye, Butterfly' to be more than that. A reviewer referred to my books as 'sentimental true crime.' I love that."
Washburn Review: Behind the scenes of the book
"Tom Prasch, history department chair, said, 'Webb has very strong writing and research skills that played into him being able to carry this book forward.' Prasch has recommended Webb's book to many of his students. So many people at Washburn have supported Webb through his journey and are thrilled to see him become a published author. 'He is genuinely a great guy, and he loves Washburn. Washburn's been great to him, and he's been great to Washburn,' said Alan Bearman, vice president for Enrollment Management."
Ernie W. Webb III's appearance on FOX 43 AM Live
Osage County Herald-Chronicle: Becoming an author
"As any good journalist, Webb knew he had to try to present Jon Mareska's side. What would push someone to commit such a crime? Tracy Keller and Webb's wife, Shana, both agreed that part of the story had to be told. After repeated attempts to contact Mareska, Webb said he hit a wall. He found myself visiting the gravesites of his father and Brenda, and asking for guidance. Two days later, he received a phone call from Mareska's stepsister. A two-hour interview gave him the turbulent story, from a child into adulthood."
Topeka Capital-Journal: 'Dover has never been the same'
“The story resonated with Ernie Webb at the time and stuck with him throughout his life. Webb never met Brenda, but found himself compelled to visit her grave over the years. Even when his job as a journalist took him across the country, when he visited his home in Burlingame, he returned to Dover. ‘If I was going through a rough time, I just stopped by to see her. I really do believe that there has been a higher power compelling me to do this story.'”
Emporia Gazette: Debut novel honors life of young Kansas girl
