Introduction to Lou Berney’s “Crooks”
Lou Berney, a renowned crime writer, has once again proven that a gripping story is only as good as the characters that drive it. His latest novel, “Crooks,” is a family saga that revolves around Buddy Mercurio, a small-time operator, his pickpocket wife Lillian, and their five children. As the Mercurio children leave the nest and make their mark on the world, they struggle to escape the shadow of their patriarch and the sins of their father.
Author Chat: Lou Berney
Lou Berney’s journey into crime writing is a fascinating one. He cites Flannery O’Connor as a major influence, describing her as the “greatest crime writer ever.” Berney’s love for crime fiction was further solidified by authors like Elmore Leonard and Jim Thompson. He also expresses his admiration for contemporary crime writers, including Sara Gran, Kate Atkinson, Megan Abbott, and S.A. Cosby, who are pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Berney’s experience writing screenplays has also had a significant impact on his approach to storytelling. He believes that crime fiction offers a unique freedom to explore different themes and ideas, making it an attractive genre for him. The Mercurio family, with their bold and reckless nature, was a delight for Berney to write about, allowing him to vicariously live through their experiences.
Research and Plot Development
Berney’s research process for “Crooks” involved delving into old magazines, such as Los Angeles magazine, to capture the essence of 1980s Los Angeles. He also consulted with friends who grew up in the city during that era to ensure accuracy. The novel’s plot is divided into six parts, each carefully crafted to create a sense of tension and suspense. Berney admits that while he does extensive outlining, he often deviates from his original plan, allowing the story to evolve organically.
The Impact of Technology on Storytelling
Berney laments the rise of smartphones, which he believes has diminished the richness of human experience. He recalls a recent visit to the airport, where everyone was glued to their phones, and longs for the days when life was less documented and more spontaneous. This nostalgia is reflected in “Crooks,” which is set in a pre-camera phone era, allowing the characters to navigate their world without the constraints of modern technology.
Book Reviews and Recommendations
Meanwhile, in the world of books, Julia M. Klein has praised Daniel Pollack-Pelzner’s biography of Lin-Manuel Miranda, describing it as a “joyous, charismatic, well-meaning, occasionally imperfect” portrayal of the artist. Samantha Fink has interviewed Elizabeth Gilbert about her new memoir “All The Way to The River,” offering a glimpse into the author’s creative process. Dave Rowntree has also released a book of band photographs, capturing the essence of Britpop’s heyday.
For readers looking for new titles, Small World Books, an independent bookstore in Los Angeles, has recommended the latest releases from RF Kuang, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Gabriela Leite. The store’s manager, Adam Lipman, notes that customers are drawn to a diverse range of genres, including romantasy, horror, and architecture.
The Importance of Books in a Digital Age
Despite the rise of digital media, books remain an essential part of our culture. As Susan Orleans once wrote, “There are too many ideas and things and people, too many directions to go. I was starting to believe that the reason it matters to care passionately about something is that it whittles the world down to a more manageable size.” Books have the power to simplify our understanding of the world, making it easier to empathize with others and find our place within it.
Read more about Lou Berney’s “Crooks” and the world of crime fiction Here
