Read 'Em Their Writes

This easy-to-use book will prove immensely useful for book clubs and public libraries, especially where mystery titles are popular. * Reference & User Services Quarterly *
In one concise book, groups wishing to specialize in mystery fiction discussions can find detailed step-by-step instructions and a wealth of information about mystery writers and their works. It is a well thought out reference work suitable for any size public library. * Colorado Association of Libraries *
In this book club guide for mystery and crime fiction groups, Niebuhr explains, for those in or starting book clubs, how to select books, while recommending which are best. In addition, he suggests ways to conduct a discussion and find a leader and participants. Noting that what works may not fit the typical definition of the genre, he gives a list of 100 titles, with background on the author and book and publishing information, setting, time period, series notes, plot summary, subject headings, appeal points, similar works, and questions. He then gives brief descriptions of 50 additional titles….Five indexes are organized by author, title, subject, location, and time period. * Reference & Research Book News *
Given his background, it is obvious that Niebuhr's voice of experience is authoratative and reliable. This title is most appropriate for public libraries. Although it is a handbook, it should be available for circulation and not used solely as a reference guide. The information about organizing discussions for book groups is universal and applies equally to other genres….This title is very useful, and hopefull it will help librarians and readers explore and discuss mystery and crime fiction more knowledgeably. * Technicalities *
Niebuhr, library director for Greendale and author of two previous mystery handbooks, has put together a guide for starting a mystery book club (perhaps a perfect post-holidays activity for winter). Along with tips and background information, sample questions are provided for 100 mysteries. * Milwaukee Journal Sentinel *
Niebuhr's selections are restricted to crime fiction and mystery books, mostly by authors from North America, with a few exceptions from the United Kingdom and two or three other countries. For each listed novel he provides various data such as the author's biography, a plot summary, the geographic setting, and time period, but also some notes about the series, readalikes, websites, readers' guides, and subject headings. Good novel-into-film discussion titles are indicated and appeal points are highlighted. All this valuable information makes this book a readers' advisory tool. Of course this work can also be used for reference and fiction collection development. * Public Libraries *