On a lower level of artistry - but not a lower level of
entertainment -
there are the novels of Edward Aarons, a popular and prolific
author in
the fifties and sixties.This morning, while rummaging at a
charity
store, I chanced upon Aarons's _Assignment Ankara_, a Gold
Medal from
1961 (40 cents). This is one I didn't have, and it has turned
out to be
a very good read.
Aarons is not a sophisticated author (his characterization
is
primitive), but his stories are fast and furious, with almost
continuous
action. If one looks at attitudes, this stuff is badly dated
- it
reflects the era - but Aarons's writing (including his
ability to
maintain a steady pace) is remarkably effective.
This book was an unexpected blast from the past and a good
read to boot.
Add Aarons to the list of forgotten Gold Medalists who
deserve at least
a look to see what's there. As long as you don't expect a
Dostoyevski or
a Stevenson, you might be pleasantly surprised. I suspect
that Spillane
fans would like Aarons.
Regards,
MT
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