Picture a California storyteller who spun tales of mystery, humor, and literary magic—meet Gordon McAlpine! A native of the Golden State, McAlpine crafted a vibrant career blending novels, short stories, and young adult fiction with a knack for weaving literary allusions into captivating narratives. From the quirky adventures of 'The Misadventures of Edgar and Allan Poe' to thought-provoking mysteries like 'Hammett Unwritten,' his work invites readers into worlds where history, wit, and imagination collide.
Beyond his books, McAlpine was a passionate educator, shaping aspiring writers at prestigious institutions like Chapman University and UC Irvine. His legacy as a writer and mentor continues to inspire, making him a hidden gem in the literary world.
The Making of Gordon McAlpine
Born in California, Gordon McAlpine’s love for storytelling took root early. A graduate of the MFA program in Creative Writing at UC Irvine, he honed his craft with a deep appreciation for literary giants like Edgar Allan Poe and Dashiell Hammett. Before becoming a novelist, McAlpine dabbled in video game development and wrote scripts for film and television in his twenties, showcasing his versatile creativity. His teaching career at UC Irvine, UCLA, and Chapman University allowed him to nurture countless writers, blending his practical experience with a passion for storytelling.
Gordon McAlpine’s Unforgettable Stories
McAlpine’s bibliography is a delightful mix of genres, from historical mysteries to middle-grade adventures. His debut novel, 'Joy in Mudville' (1989), is a whimsical blend of history, humor, and fantasy, following a trio chasing a rising baseball star in 1930s America. Critics praised its imaginative storytelling, with the Los Angeles Times calling it 'fanciful and surprising.' His literary mystery 'Hammett Unwritten' (2013), written as Owen Fitzstephen, explores why Dashiell Hammett stopped writing, earning accolades for its clever deconstruction of fiction itself.
For younger readers, McAlpine’s 'The Misadventures of Edgar and Allan Poe' trilogy (2013–2015) is a standout. This series follows twelve-year-old twins, descendants of Edgar Allan Poe, as they outwit mad scientists and unravel mysteries with their telepathic bond. Titles like 'The Tell-Tale Start,' 'Once Upon a Midnight Eerie,' and 'The Pet and the Pendulum' brim with humor, codes, and literary nods, earning starred reviews from Publishers Weekly for their 'endlessly fun' vibe. McAlpine’s prose, described as 'clean, clear, and muscular,' shines across his works, balancing accessibility with intellectual depth.
Other notable works include 'Woman with a Blue Pencil' (2015), an Edgar-nominated mystery that Joyce Carol Oates lauded for its Kafkaesque brilliance, and 'Holmes Entangled' (2018), a Sherlockian tale blending metaphysics and suspense. His non-fiction book, 'The Way of Baseball: Finding Stillness at 95 MPH' (2011), co-authored with MLB All-Star Shawn Green, explores spiritual practices in sports, showcasing his versatility.
Why Gordon McAlpine Matters
Gordon McAlpine’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres and generations. His young adult series introduced a new audience to Poe’s legacy through clever, accessible storytelling, while his literary mysteries challenged readers to rethink the boundaries of fiction. As an educator, he left an indelible mark on creative writing programs, mentoring students with the same wit and insight that defined his books. Though he passed away in 2021 at age 62, McAlpine’s work continues to resonate, offering a blend of entertainment and intellectual curiosity that feels timeless.
- Born: California, USA
- Key Works: 'Joy in Mudville,' 'Hammett Unwritten,' 'The Misadventures of Edgar and Allan Poe' trilogy
- Awards: Edgar Award nominee for 'Woman with a Blue Pencil'
- Notable: Taught at Chapman University and UC Irvine
Snag 'The Tell-Tale Start' or 'Hammett Unwritten' and dive into Gordon McAlpine’s playful, thought-provoking worlds!