The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
Private detective Philip Marlowe investigates a case of blackmail and murder in 1930s Los Angeles.
Summary
The Big Sleep is a 1939 novel by Raymond Chandler, the first to feature the detective Philip Marlowe. It is set in Los Angeles, California. The story is noted for its complexity, with many characters double-crossing one another and many secrets being exposed throughout the narrative. The novel has been adapted several times for the cinema, most notably in 1946 with Humphrey Bogart as Philip Marlowe.
Interpretation
The Big Sleep is a classic detective novel that explores the seedy underbelly of 1930s Los Angeles. It is a complex story of blackmail, murder, and double-crossing that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. The novel is a testament to Chandler's skill as a writer and his ability to create a vivid and compelling world.
Who is this book for?
The Big Sleep is suitable for readers aged 16 and up who enjoy classic detective fiction and noir stories.
Keywords
Detective, Mystery, Noir, 1930s, Los Angeles