Mystery Writers Born in July

Posted by Sandy Mitchell Jun 30, 2008

Among the mystery authors born during July are:

Mildred Wirt Benson (Carolyn Keene) -- July 10 -- The original ghostwriter for the Nancy Drew mystery series, Mildred Benson wrote 25 of the first 29 books in this series, from 1929 to 1947. She died in 2002 and was awarded an Edgar posthumously.

Erle Stanley Gardner -- July 17 -- Mr. Gardner was a mid-20th century author who wrote dozens of mostly pulp detective stories under a variety of names. He is best known, however, for his Perry Mason series. Erle Stanley Gardner died in 1970.

Michael Connelly -- July 21 -- This contemporary American writer has penned 18 novels as well as several collections of short stories, screenplays, and non fiction works. He is best known for his "Harry" Bosch series, the most recent of which were Echo Park (2006) and Overlook (2007). He lives in Florida with his family.

Raymond Chandler -- July 23 -- Raymond Chandler wrote just seven novels, all between 1939 and 1959, but they are some of the best of the mystery genre. His works all feature L.A. private detective, Philip Marlowe and include Farewell My Lovely, the Big Sleep, and the Long Goodbye, for which he won an Edgar Award.

Faye Kellerman -- July 31 -- The female member of the profilic Kellerman writing clan, Faye Kellerman is the author of 19 mystery novels, 16 of which feature L.A. police detective Peter Decker.

J.K. Rowling -- July 31 -- Joanne "Jo" Rowling is the author of the immensely popular Harry Potter series, the seventh (and final) novel of which was released last summer. Her novels have sold over 325 million copies, making her one of the most popular (and most wealthy) authors of all time. She divides her time between London and Scotland.

Happy Birthday to All!