Lilian Jackson Braun
Lilian Jackson Braun
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Lilian Jackson Braun was an American author of mystery novels, best known for her The Cat Who... series.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on December 13, 1913, in Buffalo, New York. Lilian passed away on June 29, 2018, at the age of 104.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American author
Lilian's writing career spanned over six decades, with a focus on mystery novels featuring a feline detective named Koko.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Buffalo, Lilian developed a love for animals, particularly cats. She began her writing career as a journalist, eventually transitioning to fiction. Her background in journalism undoubtedly influenced her writing style, which often incorporated real-life events into her stories.
During World War II, Braun worked at the _Buffalo Courier-Express_ , where she met her future husband, Paul Brandlin. The couple married and moved to Michigan, where Lilian continued to write while raising their two children.
Major Accomplishments
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Lilian's The Cat Who... series debuted in 1966 with _The Cat Who Could Read Backwards_ . The series went on to include over 40 novels, selling millions of copies worldwide. Her writing often featured a mix of mystery, humor, and animal-themed stories.
Braun received numerous awards for her contributions to literature, including the Mystery Writers of America Grand Master Award in 1991.
Notable Works or Actions
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The Cat Who... series follows the adventures of James Mackintosh "Jim" Qwilleran, a journalist turned amateur detective, and his two Siamese cats, Koko and Yum-Yum. The series was praised for its unique blend of mystery, humor, and animal-themed stories.
Lilian's writing also explored themes of small-town life, friendship, and the human-animal bond. Her stories often featured a strong sense of community, reflecting her own experiences growing up in a close-knit neighborhood.
Impact and Legacy
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Lilian Jackson Braun's impact on mystery fiction is undeniable. Her Cat Who... series has been translated into numerous languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide.
Braun's writing style, which often incorporated real-life events and featured a strong sense of community, influenced generations of mystery writers. Her legacy extends beyond her literary achievements to her dedication to animal welfare and conservation efforts.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Lilian Jackson Braun's enduring popularity stems from her unique blend of humor, mystery, and animal-themed stories. Her writing often explored the human-animal bond, making her a beloved author among cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.
Braun's legacy as a pioneering female mystery writer continues to inspire new generations of authors. Her dedication to animal welfare and conservation efforts serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.
Quotes by Lilian Jackson Braun
Lilian Jackson Braun's insights on:
He also entered a bookstore called “Books ‘n’ Stuff,” that stocked more videos and greeting cards than books. Furthermore, its supermarket lighting and background music discouraged browsing. Qwilleran had his own ideas about the correct ambiance for a bookstore: dim, quiet, and slightly dusty.
Do you mind living alone?” she asked. “I’ve tried it both ways,” he replied, “and I know it can be a letdown to come home to an empty apartment, but now I have the Siamese to greet me at the door. They’re good companions; they need me; they’re always happy to see me come home. On the other hand, they’re always glad to see me go out – one of the things that cats do to keep a person from feeling too important.
The dance of life should be created from moment to moment with individuality and spontaneity.
His wise parent disapproved of this uncatly conduct; it indicated a certain lack of character, and no good would come of it. By her own example she tried to guide him. When dinner was served she gave the plate a haughty sniff and walked away, no matter how tempting the dish. That was the way it was done by any self-respecting feline. In a minute or two she returned and condescended to dine, but never with open enthusiasm.
He agreed with Francis Bacon: Old friends to trust, old wood to burn, old authors to read.
My days keep getting shorter. When I’m a hundred, I’ll be going to bed before I get up.
Some of us are grown-up at age twelve; some of us never mature. It’s not a question of whether you’re old enough to make your own decision; are you old enough to take responsibility for the outcome if it turns out to be a bad decision?
Phut Phat knew, at an early age, that humans were an inferior breed. They were unable to see in the dark. They ate and drank unthinkable concoctions. And they had only five senses; the pair who lived with Phut Phat could not even transmit their thoughts without resorting to words.
The cranks are always with us,” Qwilleran said, “hiding behind trees, peeking around corners, going about in disguise, and plotting their selfish little schemes.