Step into the gritty, brain-teasing world of Joe Ide’s IQ series, where a brilliant detective navigates the tough streets of East Long Beach with Sherlockian flair! This crime fiction gem blends razor-sharp deduction with urban realism, delivering mysteries that pulse with heart, humor, and a vivid sense of place. Centered on Isaiah Quintabe, a high-school dropout with a genius-level intellect, the series redefines the detective genre with its fresh voice and culturally rich storytelling.
Since its debut, the IQ series has hooked readers with its fast-paced plots and unforgettable characters, earning praise as a modern classic. Ready to unravel crimes alongside a sleuth who’s as street-smart as he is brilliant? Let’s dive into the world of IQ!
How IQ Began
Joe Ide, a Japanese-American author raised in South Central Los Angeles, crafted the IQ series from his love for Sherlock Holmes and his own experiences in a vibrant, challenging neighborhood. After a varied career—school teacher, NGO director, and Hollywood screenwriter—Ide turned to novels, creating Isaiah Quintabe, or 'IQ,' a detective inspired by Conan Doyle’s iconic sleuth but rooted in the raw energy of East Long Beach. Published in 2016, the first book, IQ, won multiple awards and set the stage for a series that’s both a tribute to classic mysteries and a bold new voice in crime fiction.
The Heart of IQ
The IQ series follows Isaiah Quintabe, a young, unlicensed PI who solves cases the police can’t or won’t touch, often for clients who pay with baked goods or odd favors. In IQ (2016), Isaiah investigates an attempt on a rapper’s life, uncovering a web of deceit while grappling with his brother’s unsolved death. Righteous (2017) sees him chasing his brother’s killer to Las Vegas, blending personal stakes with high-octane action. Wrecked (2018) pits IQ against a dangerous arms dealer, while Fixit (2023) ramps up the tension as Isaiah races to save his kidnapped love, Grace, from a vengeful hitman.
The series shines through its themes of justice, resilience, and community. Ide’s East Long Beach is a character in itself—gritty, diverse, and alive with liquor stores, junkyards, and dreams of a better life. The stories weave dark humor, social commentary, and emotional depth, with Isaiah’s sidekick, Juanell Dodson, adding a Watson-like charm and streetwise wit. Fans love the balance of cerebral puzzles and visceral thrills, making each book a page-turner that lingers.
Why IQ Resonates
The IQ series has redefined crime fiction by centering a Black protagonist in a genre often dominated by formulaic heroes. Its authentic portrayal of East Long Beach and nuanced characters have earned it a devoted following and critical acclaim, including Anthony, Macavity, and Shamus Awards. With a TV adaptation in development, backed by Snoop Dogg’s Snoopadelic Films, IQ’s influence continues to grow, proving that stories from overlooked communities can captivate a global audience.
The series’ blend of intellectual grit and emotional stakes makes it a standout, inviting readers to see the world through Isaiah’s sharp, compassionate eyes. It’s a love letter to Los Angeles and a testament to the power of intelligence over adversity.
- Publication Years: 2016–2023
- Number of Books: 6
- Awards: Anthony, Macavity, Shamus for IQ
- Setting: East Long Beach, California
Grab IQ and dive into a mystery world where brains, heart, and hustle collide! Whether you’re a crime fiction fan or new to the genre, Isaiah Quintabe’s adventures will keep you guessing and cheering.