Picture a New Jersey storyteller who spins mysteries with a side of laughter—meet Jeffrey Cohen! Born in Newark, this versatile author has charmed readers with his witty Aaron Tucker Mystery series and touched hearts with his heartfelt nonfiction, The Asperger Parent. With a knack for blending humor and humanity, Cohen’s stories invite you to chuckle, ponder, and maybe even solve a crime or two.
From his roots in the Garden State to his rise as a beloved cozy mystery writer, Cohen’s journey is as colorful as his plots. Whether you’re a fan of quirky detectives or seeking insight into parenting with Asperger’s, his work offers something uniquely engaging.
The Making of Jeffrey Cohen
Born in Newark, New Jersey, Jeffrey Cohen grew up in Irvington, jokingly calling it the 'Garden Spot of the Western Hemisphere.' A Rutgers College graduate with an English degree, he dove into journalism, working as a municipal reporter for the Passaic Herald-News and later as a freelance writer for heavyweights like The New York Times and USA Weekend. His early career also included screenwriting, with over 20 feature-length scripts, some developed by Jim Henson Productions and CBS. This blend of reporting and storytelling shaped his sharp, humorous voice.
Cohen’s personal life, especially raising a son with Asperger’s Syndrome, deeply influenced his writing. Living in New Jersey with his wife and two children, he found inspiration in everyday chaos, channeling it into his relatable, laugh-out-loud narratives.
Jeffrey Cohen’s Unforgettable Stories
Cohen’s Aaron Tucker Mystery series is a fan favorite, starring a freelance writer and stay-at-home dad who stumbles into solving crimes. The series kicks off with For Whom the Minivan Rolls (2002), where Aaron hunts for a missing woman amidst suburban mayhem. A Farewell to Legs (2003) ups the ante with a murder investigation tied to a high school crush, while As Dog Is My Witness (2005) weaves Asperger’s awareness into a gripping case. A prequel short story, The Gun Also Rises (2011), won the Barry Award for Best Short Story in 2012.
Beyond mysteries, Cohen’s nonfiction shines. The Asperger Parent: How to Raise a Child with Asperger Syndrome and Maintain Your Sense of Humor (2002) is a candid, humorous guide for parents, earning critical acclaim for its honesty. Guns A’ Blazing tackles autism and education with the same warmth. Writing as E.J. Copperman, Cohen also pens the Haunted Guesthouse and Samuel Hoenig Asperger’s Mystery series, showcasing his versatility.
His style? Think snappy dialogue, clever puns, and a New Jersey flair. Cohen’s mysteries are cozy yet complex, balancing humor with heartfelt themes like family and acceptance. Fans compare him to Dave Barry for his wit and to Janet Evanovich for his lovable characters.
Why Jeffrey Cohen Matters
Cohen’s impact lies in his ability to entertain while enlightening. His Aaron Tucker series redefined cozy mysteries by infusing them with suburban dad humor and intricate plots, appealing to readers who crave both laughs and suspense. His nonfiction, particularly The Asperger Parent, has been a beacon for families navigating autism, offering humor as a coping tool and challenging societal stigmas.
By drawing from his own experiences, Cohen brings authenticity to his work, making characters like Aaron Tucker and themes of parenting resonate universally. His influence extends to aspiring writers, showing how to blend humor with meaningful storytelling.
- Born: Newark, New Jersey
- Key Works: Aaron Tucker Mystery series, The Asperger Parent, Guns A’ Blazing
- Awards: Barry Award for Best Short Story (2012) for The Gun Also Rises
- Pseudonym: E.J. Copperman for additional mystery series
Ready to dive into a mystery with a side of chuckles? Snag For Whom the Minivan Rolls or The Asperger Parent and discover Jeffrey Cohen’s irresistible blend of wit and wisdom!