Elmore Leonard, critically-acclaimed crime novelist and recognized master of American genre writing, died at his Bloomfield Village, Mich. home on Tuesday at the age of 87. The prolific writer and brilliant mind behind "Get Shorty," "Glitz," and "Freaky Deaky," was often typified for his deadpan dialogues, laconic humour, indecent characters, yet modest writing style.
News about his death was officially announced on his personal Website, but the underlying cause was not mentioned; however, it can be noted that two weeks prior to his demise, the award-winning novelist suffered from a stroke.
To many of his peers, the dashing mystery writer not only validated the crime thriller genre, but also removed, in part, the field's affectations, paving the way to a more believable generation of literary craft and conventions.
According to Martin Amis in his review of Leonard's "Riding the Rap," the novelist possessed "gifts - of ear and eye, of timing and phrasing - that even the most indolent and snobbish masters of the mainstream must vigorously covet."
Elmore Leonard accepted his Lifetime Achievement award from the American chapter of PEN, in 2009. The agency deemed his works as not simple classics of grim recounts, but treasure-worthy books that showcase a writing style that will surely surpass half of a century in essence.
Prior to his death, Leonard was spending his time following the television adaptation of his short story "Fire in the Hole" or "Justified" as called on the small screen. The series received a Peabody Award two years ago, sparking the popularity of the other two short stories that featured the same protagonist: "Pronto" and "Riding the Rap," released in 1993 and 1995, respectively.
Last year, the seasoned novelist was awarded the 2012 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. The National Book Foundation remarked, "For over five decades, Leonard's westerns, crime novels, serialized novels, and stories have enthralled generations of readers."
The last recognition he received while still living was an Edgar Grand Master honor from the Mystery Writers of America.
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