It’s a difficult task to pigeonhole the writing of James Sallis. For over thirty years the esteemed author has followed his passions and has crafted an indelible body of work ranging from poetry to biography to music criticism. But it is his crime novels featuring New Orleans based private investigator Lew Griffin (The Long-legged Fly, Moth, Black Hornet, Eye of the Cricket, Bluebottle, and Ghost of a Flea, published by Walker & Co, et al); his trilogy of novels featuring ex-cop, ex-con, turned reluctant sheriff’s deputy, Turner (Cypress Grove, Cripple Creek, and Salt River, published by Walker & Co); and what many readers and critics consider his hard-boiled masterpiece, Drive (Poisoned Pen Press and Harvest books), for which he is best known.
I was fortunate enough to sit down with Jim Sallis before his recent appearance at the Poisoned Pen bookstore in Scottsdale, Arizona, to discuss his critically lauded career.
Keith, you have a very pleasant speaking voice. Nice job!
Elaine Ash
Wonderful job with the interview, Keith.
What a thrill to see and hear him. Thanks, Keith. You did a great job in asking different questions.
Classy stuff. You’re a natural. Never read Sallis but clearly, I should.
Awesome stuff Keith, thanks! I’ve only communicated with Mr. Sallis once myself, and he was extremely generous and polite!
Great interview Keith. James Sallis is one the best writers we have bar genre.
Keith, this a must see interview. I’ve read several of Mr. Sallis’ books. He’s the unknown Ellroy of the south. Great job.