Ruth Rendell

Date of Birth: February 17, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: May 2, 2015

Biography

Ruth Rendell, born Ruth Barbara Grasemann, was an acclaimed English author known for her prolific output in the crime and psychological thriller genres. She was born on February 17, 1930, in South Woodford, Essex, England. Rendell became a household name for her Inspector Wexford series, featuring the astute and humane Chief Inspector Reginald Wexford. Her writing career began with the publication of her first novel, “From Doon with Death,” in 1964, which introduced the character of Wexford. This series spanned over 24 books and was adapted into a successful television series. Aside from the Wexford series, Rendell also wrote standalone psychological thrillers and novels under the pseudonym Barbara Vine, which allowed her to explore darker and more complex themes. Rendell’s literary work earned her numerous accolades, including three Edgar Awards, the Crime Writers’ Association Cartier Diamond Dagger for lifetime achievement, and the Mystery Writers of America Grand Master Award. She was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1996, and in 1997, she was made a Life Peer as Baroness Rendell of Babergh. Ruth Rendell passed away on May 2, 2015, in London, England, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence and inspire writers and readers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Ruth Rendell

1. Ruth Rendell was also known by her pseudonym Barbara Vine, under which she wrote several acclaimed psychological thrillers.

2. She was a member of the House of Lords, taking the title Baroness Rendell of Babergh.

3. Her Inspector Wexford series was adapted into a popular television series titled “The Ruth Rendell Mysteries.”

4. Rendell’s novel “A Judgement in Stone” is often cited as one of the finest crime novels ever written.

5. She was a passionate advocate for social issues, including literacy and social justice, and often incorporated these themes into her work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ruth Rendell

1. “Writing is an antidote to loneliness.”

2. “I think there’s a bit of evil in all of us, and every human being has that side to them.”

3. “The more we study the more we discover our ignorance.”

4. “I try, and I think I succeed, in making my readers feel that they are inside the character’s mind, that they are experiencing what the character is experiencing.”

5. “I can’t imagine not writing. It’s like breathing to me.”