Evan Hunter ​

Evan Hunter, who also wrote under the name Ed McBain, was an American author and screenwriter. He was best known for his crime fiction, most notably the 87th Precinct series. His writing was known for its realistic depiction of the criminal justice system.

Quick Facts ​

• Known for his best-selling crime fiction series featuring detective Steve Carella.
• Won the Mystery Writers of America's Grand Master Award, the highest honor awarded in crime fiction.
• His novels have been adapted into films, such as 'The Blackboard Jungle.'
• Wrote several novels under the pseudonym Ed McBain.
• His books have been translated into multiple languages and sold millions of copies globally.

Background ​

Hunter was born in 1926 in Brooklyn, New York, to a couple who emigrated from Eastern Europe. After serving in the US Navy during World War II, he went on to earn his degree in English and Education from Hunter College. Initially a teacher, he soon became disenchanted with the profession and decided to pursue his passion for writing. In 1954, he published his first novel, The Blackboard Jungle, under the pen name Evan Hunter. The book was a huge success and was soon made into a movie. As well as standalone novels, he wrote several series including the popular 87th Precinct crime novels. Hunter also wrote screenplays for movies and television shows, the most famous being the movie adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds in 1963. He passed away in 2005.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Hunter's work, often written under the pen name Ed McBain, is characterized by gritty, realistic portrayals of urban life, particularly in his 87th Precinct novels. He is credited with being one of the creators of the police procedural genre. His writing is marked by detailed descriptions, realistic dialogue, and a focus on the procedural aspects of police work. His influence is seen in numerous crime and police procedural works in both literature and television.

Notable Works ​

• Blackboard Jungle (1954)
• The Last Spin (1960)
• The Chisholms (1975)
• Lizzie (1984)
• Criminal Conversation (1994)
• Privileged Conversation (1996)