Raymond Chandler (1888 - 1959)

Primarily known as a major mystery writer, many of Raymond Chandler's books were made into some of the classic movies of what is known as the film noir period in Hollywood. 

After holding down a variety of jobs from bookkeeping to accounting, he settled down to a career of writing, residing in Southern California. His works include: The Big Sleep, The Lady in the Lake, and Double Indemnity.