What Mystery Writers Read

15 Feb

As a mystery writer, Marni is always on the lookout for articles about other writers in this genre. So when she came across an article describing the top choices of James Lee Burke, she decided to share his list with us. Burke is the best-selling author of over 25 mysteries; his latest is Swan Peak. In 2009 he was named one of the 2009 Grand Master recipients by Mystery Writers of America. Here is his list along with his comments, and Marni’s in italics:

Ron Hansen‘s Mariette in Ecstasy is a masterful metaphysical story dealing with stigmata. Ultimately, it’s about a woman who represents courage and altruism in the midst of mediocrity. {This is one I haven’t read, but it’s just gone on my to-read list.}

James M. Cain once said his stories were about the ultimate human tragedy–people getting what they want. Double Indemnity, a 1930′s murder mystery involved an insurance fraud scheme, exemplifies his best work. {Made into a popular movie starring Fred McMurray and a beguiling Barbara Stanwyck of the same name.}

Mr. Majestyk, by Elmore Leonard, features a farmer who runs afoul of the Mob. It’s one of the best portrayals of professional criminals I have ever read and a beautiful accomplishment in terms of dialogue and style. {Leonard wrote the screenplay for the 1974 movie starring Charles Bronson.}

Selected Tales and Sketches is a collection of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s stories, perhaps the best allegories ever written about the nature of good and evil. {Considered the originator of the American short story, themes of America in the 1820′s to 40′s explored here are expanded in his longer pieces, such as The Scarlet Letter.}

The city of Los Angeles is a protagonist in The Black Echo, Michael Connelly‘s superb tale about Vietnam vets pulling off the score of scores. Connelly writes with the knowledge and experience of a hard-nosed police reporter, but he’s also an artist. {I read all of Connelly’s books as soon as they come out. A favorite of mine.}

Cormac McCarthy’s No Country for Old Men deals with evil that seems to have no origin. The writing is spartan, the inagery and dialogue as clean as razor cuts in leather. The story seems derived from the collective unconsciousness; it is frightening and unforgettable. {Made into a 2007 movie by the Coen Brothers, won 4 Oscars including Best Picture.}

Readers, here’s a few for you to investigate. Share your thoughts if you already have!