january mysteries

what is so attractive about murder mysteries? i didn't used to read them much, maybe i felt superior or more likely i was just afraid of the dark. but lately my admiration for Raymond Chandler & Dashiell Hammett has led me to get into some wonderful contemporary murder mystery writers...something about the fact that the plot is more or less an excuse to examine the world--politics, history, human psychology--all the big issues, framed in a relatively predictable package that allows the quirks and personal beliefs of the writer to shine through. a few mystery writers who come to mind are Donna Leon (Euro-politics wrapped up in Venetian ambiance), Jake Lamar (more insight into the current banlieu crisis than most French journalists can offer), and Yasmina Khadra (a pseudonym through which author Mohammed Moulessehoul bitterly describes contemporary Algeria). any other recommendations?

and as a complete aside, Canadian poet & stubborn bon vivant extraordinaire Irving Layton died yesterday, January 4th. appropriately enough, this note can be found on his website: "The Irving Layton Site strongly encourages students to consult their teachers, professors and their local library for assistance with essays and term papers. Dr. Layton is not available for assistance to students at this time." R.I.P.