Penulis: Brainard Gardner Smith

Anna Katharine Green (1846–1935) was a pioneering figure in the American detective fiction genre, predating Sir Arthur Conan Doyle”s Sherlock Holmes by nearly a decade. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Green pursued a literary career at a time when such ambitions were considered unconventional for women. Her first novel, “The Leavenworth Case” (1878), gained widespread acclaim and was noted for its intricate plot and the use of a detective as the novel”s central character. Green”s writing is characterized by well-constructed plots, legal knowledge, and the early use of forensic methods, which has earned her the moniker “The Mother of the Detective Novel.” Her works often feature strong female characters, which was progressive for her time and contributed to her reputation as an early feminist writer. Among her other notable works is “Eleven Possible Cases” (1891), a collection of short stories that highlights her storytelling prowess and continues to define her contribution to the mystery genre. Green”s literary style combined emotional depth with intellectual puzzles, capturing readers” imaginations and ensuring her place in the annals of crime fiction history. Her work has left a lasting legacy, influencing not only literature but also the development of detective narratives in other media.