In 1996 Robert Crais embarked on his first national tour for his novel "Sunset Express." He came through Dayton and stopped by the WYSO studios for a live interview on the Book Nook. That was his 5th novel. He was really just getting started as a novelist following a successful stint as a Hollywood screen writer for programs like "LA Law" and "Hill Street Blues."
Bob is a charming fellow. He's also one of the nicest people that I have ever met. And I love his work. Over the years I have done a dozen interviews with him and we have actually had a chance to socialize a little bit. One memorable afternoon in Los Angeles Bob drove me downtown and gave me a guided tour of his version of LA, the one where murders are taking place and crimes are getting investigated. We were headed to a party for the crime writer Michael Connelly.
It has been a pleasure to observe as Bob has diligently worked at his craft. I'll never forget the feeling I had in 1999 after reading his Elvis Cole novel "LA Requiem." That book marked a change. It was deeper and darker and so very compelling. Bob's books now top the best-seller lists. His latest, "The Promise," was a long time in coming. As you listen to this interview he'll explain why it took him a while to write it.
I have interviewed one other novelist 15 times. If you listen to this one you'll find out which author is on top of the list and how Bob feels about being #2. He doesn't mind. Bob admires that other writer as much as I do.
The Book Nook on WYSO is made possible by five local library systems in southwest Ohio: the Greene County Public Library, Washington-Centerville Public Library, MidPointe Library System, Clark County Public Library and the Dayton Metro Library.
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