The intricate art that winds through the corridors of literature has been shaped by many instrumental authors, and one who stands tall in the mystery genre is the unforgettable author, Harry Kemelman (1908-1996). Born and bred in Boston, this American mystery writer is renowned for his compelling series that feature Rabbi Small, an unassuming detective and a deeply philosophical character.
The Origins of a Celebrated Author
Boston’s inspiring environs influenced Kemelman’s early years, fueling his passion for literature. A Boston University alumnus, he owns a B.A. in English literature. His quest for knowledge didn’t stop there; he further enhanced his intellectual repertoire with an M.A. in Anglo-Saxon Literature from Harvard University.
Roused with a strong educational background, Kemelman embarked on a fulfilling career in education, dedicating many years to inspiring younger minds. However, his life took an unexpected turn during World War II, working fervently as a wage executive for the transportation corps of the U.S. Army and the War Assets Administration.
The Birth of a Masterful Writer
When the tides of war ebbed, Kemelman astounded the literary world with his powerful narratives. His authorial journey began with his debut story “The Nine Mile Walk“, published in the famed Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine in 1947. This notable story, along with its remarkable successors, are showcased in a collection under the same title.
However, it was the novel “Friday the Rabbi Slept Late” in 1964, that brought him wider recognition, earning him the prestigious Edgar Award for Best First Novel. This marked the incredible inception of a literary journey that still fascinates mystery lovers globally.
Books in Order: A Prolific Literary Legacy
Fame didn’t deter Kemelman from his commitment to his craft; instead, it fueled his creativity, leading him to create a trailblazing series of novels. His books in order, beginning from his first novel, showcase the evolution of his unique and captivating writing style. His contributions are an immortal echo in the literary world, illuminating the path for future generations of mystery authors.
Publication Order of The Rabbi Small Mysteries Books
| Friday the Rabbi Slept Late | (1964) |    |
| Saturday the Rabbi Went Hungry | (1966) | |
| Sunday the Rabbi Stayed Home | (1969) | |
| Monday the Rabbi Took Off | (1972) | |
| Tuesday the Rabbi Saw Red | (1973) | |
| Wednesday the Rabbi Got Wet | (1976) | |
| Thursday the Rabbi Walked Out | (1978) | |
| Conversations with Rabbi Small | (1981) | |
| Someday the Rabbi Will Leave | (1985) | |
| One Fine Day the Rabbi Bought a Cross | (1987) | |
| The Day the Rabbi Resigned | (1992) | |
| That Day the Rabbi Left Town | (1996) | |