Ayo Onatade is an avid reader of crime and mystery fiction. She has been writing reviews, interviews and articles on the subject for the last 12 years; with an eclectic taste from historical to hardboiled, short stories and noir films
Readers of Simenon's books, admirers of the films, television [adapted from his work] as well as those inquisitive about the man himself will welcome Barry Forshaw's insight into to this legendary Belgian author. Best known for his Detective Maigret, Simenon was an acknowledged chronicler of French / Belgian society. It has been widely acknowledged that Simenon's work has been an influence on a number of contemporary crime writers.
In Simenon, The Man, The Books, The Films - Barry Forshaw has adroitly interviewed those that worked with Simenon [his publishers, editors, translators et al]. Forshaw’s research is clearly evident. For some, this work can be read as a great introduction to all things Simenon - a primer if you will; for others, it is far more. Forshaw has written a fascinating and entertaining reference book that will be welcomed by ardent fans of Simenon's Maigret series - but also by the casual crime-fiction reader wishing to gain an evocative insight into this giant of French / Belgian literature.
I can confirm that this book is assiduously researched, becoming a handy [and an essential] guide to all things Simenon.
Another great book by the academic crime fiction chronicler - Barry Forshaw.
