The Great Read: Searching for Clues in Jeffrey Epstein’s Boyhood
“Jeff” grew up in an insular world, kept company with a few brainy boys and fixated on girls. Was a monster hiding in plain sight?
The New York Times
The Great Read
June 23, 2026, 2:01 p.m. Eastern time

On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go.

A black and white photograph of a young man in a white shirt and a tie.

House Oversight Committee

Searching for Clues in Jeffrey Epstein’s Boyhood

“Jeff” grew up in an insular world, kept company with a few brainy boys and fixated on girls. Was a monster hiding in plain sight?

Open now

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times.

To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

Zeta LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018