Publisher's Synopsis
Mystery readers know that mystery books' golden age began with the amazing works of Agatha Christie and other British writers. Eventually American writers also entered the field, producing what are now considered classic mystery novels. Among the first of these American authors was Earl Derr Biggers, who in 1925 published The House Without a Key - the first of six daring novels featuring Hawaiian-Chinese police detective Charlie Chan. For those who don't already know it, the Chan of the novels is not the stereotyped Chan that Hollywood created.
Charlie Chan's Poppa: Earl Derr Biggers takes readers deep into the backstory of the author and the iconic character he created, offering insights not just into Biggers' writing process, but also into author editor relationships. Readers will chuckle at Biggers' outraged reaction and acerbic wit when the publisher put pine trees on the front cover of a novel set in Hawaii.
In addition to being a biography of Biggers, Charlie Chan's Poppa also provides literary criticism and introduces readers to each of his mystery novels.
Because Biggers died after writing only six Chan novels, he was slowly forgotten as one of the important writers of the golden age of mystery. This book allows readers to understand what Biggers achieved. By analyzing the six Chan novels, this book helps bring to life the character who was known and loved by millions of devoted fans around the world.
