Detective, Mystery, and Suspense Fiction

General Works and Encyclopedias

Barzun, Jacques. A catalogue of crime: being a reader's guide to the literature of mystery, detection and related genres, 3 rd ed. (New York, NY: Harper & Row, 1989) *RS-NAL 91-7442 A completely revised and enlarged edition of this classic reference work. Contains brief description and critical commentary for over 5000 titles. Earlier editions, which contain different information due to revisions, can by found by consulting the Online Catalog.

DeAndrea, William. Encyclopedia mysteriosa (New York, NY: Prentice Hall, 1994) *R-NAL 94-12345 Includes writers, actors, fictional characters, novels, films, television, cartoon and comics characters, radio shows and more. There are eleven major essays on significant aspects of the genre and several useful appendices. A truly comprehensive work.

Detectionary: a biographical dictionary of leading characters in detective and mystery fiction, including famous and little known sleuths, their helpers, rogues, both heroic and sinister, and some of their most memorable adventures as recounted in novels, short stories, and films, compiled by Otto Penzler (Woodstock, NY: Overlook Press, 1977) JFE 78-2827 The title says it all. This classic work is still valuable for researching obscure references.

Encyclopedia of mystery and detection, Chris Steinbunner and Otto Penzler, editors-in chief (New York: McGraw Hill, 1976) JFE 97-4158 Over 600 articles on authors, characters and various categories within the genre. Most articles contain bibliographies and checklists which include first printings and theater, television and motion picture versions. Illustrated.

Fine art of murder: the mystery reader's indispensable companion, edited by Ed Gorman. . .[et al] (New York, NY: Carroll & Graf, 1993) JFF 94-4188 A current, comprehensive overview of the field consisting of over 125 essays, bibliographies and author interviews. Coverage extends to comic books, television, bookstores, fandom. Index. Illustrated.

Haycraft, Howard. Murder for pleasure; the life and times of the detective story (New York, NY: Biblio and Tannen, 1968) Covers 1841-1968, with an emphasis on history and evolution of detective fiction. Includes assorted bibliographies such as the Cornerstone Collection 1748-1948. A classic renowned for the accuracy of its information.