Novelist

Timeline

Lifetime: 1884 - 1933 Passed: ≈ 91 years ago

Title

American Novelist, Playwright

Country/Nationality

United States
Wikipedia

Earl Derr Biggers

Earl Derr Biggers was an American author best known for his mystery novels, particularly the Charlie Chan series. He was born in Warren, Ohio, in 1884, and went on to attend Harvard University. After graduating, he worked as a journalist and wrote short stories before publishing his first novel in 1925.

Biggers was known for his impeccable writing style and his ability to craft intricate and compelling mysteries. He was also known for his keen observations of human nature, which he used to create complex and interesting characters. His novels were hugely popular during his time and continue to be enjoyed by readers today.

Biggers' philosophy was rooted in the belief that everyone has a story to tell. He believed that there was something to be learned from everyone, no matter how seemingly insignificant their life may seem. This philosophy is reflected in his writing, where he often focused on the lives of ordinary people who found themselves caught up in extraordinary circumstances.

Biggers was famous for his Charlie Chan series, which follows the adventures of a Chinese detective working in Honolulu, Hawaii, and later San Francisco. The series was hugely popular and spawned a number of movies, television shows, and other adaptations. The character of Charlie Chan was seen as groundbreaking at the time, as he represented one of the few positive portrayals of an Asian character in popular culture.

Biggers' other notable works include "Seven Keys to Baldpate," which was adapted into a successful Broadway play, and "Behind That Curtain," which features another famous detective, Inspector Holt.

Earl Derr Biggers passed away in 1933 at the age of 48 due to a heart condition. He is remembered today as one of the most influential mystery writers of his time. His work has inspired countless authors and continues to be enjoyed by readers around the world.

One interesting fact about Biggers is that he initially intended for Charlie Chan to be a minor character in his novels. However, after the character proved to be hugely popular with readers, he became the main focus of the series. Additionally, Biggers was a prolific traveler and visited many countries throughout his life, including Japan, China, and Europe, which inspired many of the settings and characters in his novels.

In conclusion, Earl Derr Biggers was a talented and influential writer who left an indelible mark on the world of mystery fiction. His commitment to creating complex and interesting characters, as well as his belief that everyone has a story to tell, have made his work timeless. From the Charlie Chan series to his other notable works, Biggers' legacy continues to inspire readers and writers today.

Books by Earl Derr Biggers

The House without the Key Cover image

The House without the Key

Novel
Detective Family Murder Mystery Crime Wealth Secret Twists Plotting Cast Victim

It is a mystery novel. First published in 1925, it is the first in a series of novels featuring the iconic detective, Charlie Chan. The story is set in Honolulu, Hawaii, and follows the investigation of a murder at a wealthy family's estate. The nov...

Inside the Lines Cover image

Inside the Lines

Novel
Family War Fortune Sacrifice Loyalty Struggle Espionage Betrayal

A young woman finds herself trapped in a dangerous game of espionage on the eve of World War I. Inside the Lines is a thrilling spy novel by Earl Derr Biggers, set in the summer of 1914 as Europe is on the brink of World War I. Jane Gerson, a spunky...

Agony Column Cover image

Agony Column

Romance Adventure Mystery
Murder Mystery London Romantic Adventure Intrigue Agony Column Charlie Chan

The Agony Column by Earl Derr Biggers is an exciting romantic adventure that follows the story of Geoffrey West, a young American visiting London. Inspired by the personal ads in the London newspapers, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous game o...

Seven Keys to Baldpate Cover image

Seven Keys to Baldpate

Crime Fiction Mystery
Murder Mystery Crime Thriller Deception Suspense Winter Intrigue Inn Secrets Writer Keys

In the heart of a snowy winter, William Magee, a struggling novelist seeking solitude and inspiration, arrives at the isolated Baldpate Inn. His hopes of undisturbed writing are dashed when he discovers that he is not alone. Six other individuals, ea...

Love Insurance Cover image

Love Insurance

Comedy Romance Adventure
Marriage New York Love Adventure Romance Comedy Duty Betrayal Wealth London Florida Insurance

In 'Love Insurance', Richard Minot, an employee of Lloyds of London, is tasked with ensuring that Cynthia Meyrick, a wealthy young lady, marries their client, Lord Harrowby. However, Richard's plans are disrupted when he meets Cynthia on a train and...