There’s nothing scholarly about P. D. James’ Talking About Detective Fiction. P. D. James simply talks about detective fiction, mostly the British variety, in this slim volume. James likes G. K. Chesterton, especially the Father Brown series. She hasn’t much positive to say about Agatha Christie. James dismisses Christie as a puzzle maker. In the brief chapter on American crime writers, Hammett and Chandler are mentioned. James really likes Sara Paretsky. And Ross Macdonald. If you’re looking for a working writer’s take on her genre, TALKING ABOUT DETECTIVE FICTION should fill your need. No index. GRADE: B
Is it really just I’m PD James and I can make a buck my jotting down a few thoughts? I’ve a few of that sort already.
Actually, TALKING ABOUT DETECTIVE FICTION reads a little bit like those PARIS REVIEW interviews, Patti. Perhaps a little more formal than that, but in the same spirit. It’s a quick read.
Apparently she was “commissioned” to write it, Patti. It’s easily readable but I’d recommend getting it from the library instead of bothering to buy it.
As usual, I thought she was unduly harsh to Christie and overly complimentary to Margery Allingham.
But it’s still impressive for an 89 year old.
You’re right about James’ praise of Margery Allingham and her work, Jeff. I’ve only read a few of Allingham’s mysteries and found they are not to my taste. Yes, it’s impressive that an 89-year old can be as sharp as she is.
I like some of James’ books well enough, but this doesn’t sound like something I’d want to read. Thanks, as always, for the review, as it will keep me from wondering about this one.
I happen to be one of those who enjoy Allingham, her Campion books are a lot of fun, I think. Traitor’s Purse is, I believe, one of the better ones.
I haven’t read TRAITOR’S PURSE, Rick, but I’m sure I have a copy of it around here somewhere. THE TIGER IN THE SMOKE really discouraged me from reading any more Allingham.
Read all of Allingham once upon a time. I wonder if she holds up well. Probably not.
THE TIGER IN THE SMOKE didn’t hold up for me, Patti.
I reread Traitor’s Purse last year, Patti, and enjoyed it.
I’m still looking for TRAITOR’S PURSE, Rick. I think I have it in a Large Print edition.