Classic American Crime Fiction of the 1920s

American crime writing was reborn in the 1920s with new writers and ideas, such as Charlie Chan, Philo Vance, Ellery Queen, Dashiell Hammett, and W. R. Burnett. This collection of five novels presents them in their original published form with historical and cultural annotations, illustrations, and an overview of the history of American crime writing by Edgar-winning editor Leslie S. Klinger.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1152 pages
Publication date: 02 October 2018
Publisher: Pegasus Books

American crime writing experienced a remarkable resurgence in the 1920s, marking a significant shift from the dominance of British authors. A new generation of American writers emerged, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the detective and mystery genres. Their works achieved unprecedented popularity, reminiscent of the era of Sherlock Holmes' success in America.

Classic American crime writing from the 1920s stands as a testament to the era's literary excellence. Notable examples include "House Without a Key," "The Benson Murder Case," "The Roman Hat Mystery," "Red Harvest," and "Little Caesar." These works showcase the mastery of storytelling and the depth of character development that characterized the era.

One of the notable figures in American crime writing during this period was Earl Derr Biggers, who introduced the character of Charlie Chan, a Chinese-American detective, at a time when racism was pervasive. Biggers' portrayal of Chan, a brilliant and dedicated investigator, challenged societal prejudices and paved the way for greater diversity in detective fiction.

Another influential writer was S. S. Van Dine, who created the character of Philo Vance, an effete, rich amateur psychologist who thrived amidst the Roaring Twenties. Vance's investigations were characterized by his keen intellect and intricate puzzles, making him a beloved figure in mystery literature.

Ellery Queen, the quintessential American detective, made his debut in the 1920s and remained popular for fifty years. Queen's cleverness, wit, and ability to solve complex mysteries captivated readers, and his enduring popularity is a testament to his enduring appeal.

Dashiell Hammett's "The Continental Op" series, narrated by the enigmatic Continental Op, introduced a new level of complexity and darkness to detective fiction. Hammett's gritty portrayal of the underworld and his exploration of moral dilemmas made him a pioneer in the genre.

W. R. Burnett created the unforgettable character of Rico, the first gangster antihero, in his novel "Little Caesar." Rico's rise to power and his downfall were a captivating portrayal of the darker side of the American Dream, and Burnett's novel remains a classic of crime literature.

Each of the five novels included in this collection is presented in its original published form, accompanied by extensive historical and cultural annotations and illustrations. Editor Leslie S. Klinger, a recipient of the Edgar Award, has added valuable insights, making the reading experience even more enriching. His detailed foreword provides a comprehensive overview of the history of American crime writing, from its early beginnings in the early years of America to the twentieth century.

The gorgeously illustrated volume features over 100 color and black and white images, enhancing the reader's experience of the era. Additionally, an introduction by renowned mystery publisher Otto Penzler adds further insight into the significance of these works.

In conclusion, American crime writing experienced a remarkable rebirth in the 1920s, marked by the emergence of fresh talent and innovative ideas. The works of Earl Derr Biggers, S. S. Van Dine, Ellery Queen, Dashiell Hammett, and W. R. Burnett have left an indelible mark on the genre, and this collection serves as a testament to their enduring legacy. By presenting these classic novels in their original published form, accompanied by extensive annotations and illustrations, readers can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of American crime writing and experience the golden age of detective fiction firsthand.

Weight: 2664g
Dimension: 262 x 225 x 66 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781681778617