Deze auteur verwierf bekendheid door zijn levendige portretten van het Amerikaanse stadsleven. Veel van zijn romans spelen zich af in Chicago, dat de auteur liefkozend 'het Londen van het Westen' noemde. Hij vond parallellen in de diverse bevolking van de stad, de kakofonie van talen en het bruisende straatleven, wat de levendige, vaak chaotische sfeer van de Britse hoofdstad weerspiegelde. Zijn werk duikt in de anonimiteit en het veelzijdige karakter van stedelijke omgevingen, waarbij hij in latere verhalen zelfs generieke of naamloze steden verzon, en zo de rusteloze energie van stadsbewoners vastlegde met een onderscheidende vertelstem.
A mysterious encounter on the street ignites a complex web of intrigue in this captivating tale by Harry Stephen Keeler. The protagonist quickly realizes that a seemingly simple request for a cigarette lighter conceals deeper motives. The story intricately weaves together suspense and unexpected twists, featuring a prominent skull that plays a crucial role in the unfolding mystery. Keeler's unique narrative style promises a thrilling experience, enhanced by the enigmatic presence of the characters and their hidden agendas.
Neil Gaiman expresses his admiration for Harry Stephen Keeler, a writer known for his unique blend of flaws and charm. Keeler's work straddles the line between being considered the worst great writer or the greatest bad writer in America. Gaiman's fondness for Keeler highlights a deeper appreciation for his unconventional storytelling, suggesting that despite numerous faults, there is an irresistible allure in his writing that captivates readers.
Set in Sing Sing, three writers face execution for a shared crime, but only one is innocent. With the victim's body containing just two bullets, they must unravel the truth before dawn to determine who deserves the Governor's pardon. Tension mounts as they navigate their fates, exploring themes of guilt, justice, and the power of storytelling in a desperate race against time.
Set against the backdrop of a daring bank heist, Sheriff Bucyrus Duckhouse is poised at the Smoky Ridge Tunnel, anticipating the arrival of the robbers. His strategic positioning highlights his determination to uphold justice in Willis Creek. The tension builds as he prepares to confront the criminals, showcasing themes of bravery and law enforcement in a small-town setting. This gripping narrative promises a thrilling chase and a test of wits as the sheriff seeks to reclaim the stolen gold.
Set in 1935, this thrilling novel follows five eccentric individuals who purchase small jade Buddha figurines, leading to an intriguing series of events. Celebrated for his unique style, Harry Stephen Keeler blends elements of mystery and absurdity, creating a narrative that defies conventional storytelling. Neil Gaiman's admiration highlights Keeler's unconventional talent, making this work a fascinating exploration of quirky characters and unexpected twists.
The narrative continues from the events of the earlier novel, "Finger! Finger!", as readers delve into an intricate mystery crafted by Harry Stephen Keeler. Set in the 1930s, it promises a blend of suspense and unique storytelling that is characteristic of Keeler's work. To fully appreciate the plot's resolution, familiarity with the first installment is essential, ensuring a cohesive understanding of the characters and their developments.
A gripping mystery unfolds as Jimmie Kentland, a reporter, stumbles upon a tragic accident involving a young woman and a murder scene at an Oriental antique shop. His investigation reveals a series of curious clues, including a mutilated painting and the mysterious death of the shop's owner. As Kentland delves deeper, he uncovers secrets that not only unravel the circumstances surrounding the murder but also connect to the injured woman, ultimately leading him to a shocking revelation about her past.
Jarth Kilgo hat ein Problem: Sein Onkel hätte ihm ein Vermögen vererbt, 100.000 Dollar, wenn ... ja, wenn er nicht eine Vorstellung mit dem Titel „Die Kugeln von Seng“ gesehen und beschlossen hätte, das ganze Geld stattdessen lieber für die Erforschung dieser Kugeln zu stiften. Denn besagte Kugeln besitzen, so heißt es, die Fähigkeit, dass sie Gedankenübertragung und Hellsehen ermöglichen. Jarth erhält die Möglichkeit, selbst an einer Vorstellung teilzunehmen, die der alte Chinese Wong Shing Li gibt, der die Darbietung vor mehr als einem halben Jahrhundert erfunden hat. Tatsächlich kennen die okkulten Kräfte der Kugeln von Seng offenbar keine Grenzen ... und als Jarth obendrein auf das Buch eines chinesischen Gelehrten stößt, das diese einzigartigen Kräfte nach allen Regeln der höheren Physik und Quantenmechanik erklärt, scheint es keine Hoffnung mehr zu geben - denn sein Erbe erhält er nur, wenn er beweisen kann, dass die telepathischen Fähigkeiten der Kugeln ein Schwindel sind. Aber geht bei der Vorstellung wirklich alles mit rechten (übersinnlichen) Dingen zu? Harry Stephen Keeler zeigt es uns in einem furiosen Finale, wie nur er es sich ausdenken konnte!
