W. R. Burnett

W. R. Burnett (William Riley Burnett) was an American novelist and screenwriter, born on November 25, 1899, in Springfield, Ohio, and died on April 25, 1982. He is best known for his crime and gangster novels, many of which were adapted into successful films. Among his most famous works are 'Little Caesar', which was turned into a classic film in 1931, and 'The Asphalt Jungle', which was also adapted into a film noir in 1950. Burnett's work is known for its gritty realism and complex characterizations, and he is considered a pioneer in the crime genre.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Asphalt Jungle

    Cover of 'The Asphalt Jungle' by W. R. Burnett

    This novel delves into the gritty underworld of urban crime, focusing on a meticulously planned jewelry heist that promises to be the ultimate payday for its diverse crew of small-time crooks and down-on-their-luck characters. However, as the operation unfolds, the group's carefully laid plans begin to unravel due to a mix of greed, betrayal, and the relentless pressure from law enforcement. Set against the backdrop of a bleak, post-war American city, the narrative explores themes of desperation, the elusive American dream, and the thin line between order and chaos in the pursuit of survival and redemption.

    The 2298th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Little Caesar

    Cover of 'Little Caesar' by W. R. Burnett

    The book is a gritty tale of the rise and fall of a small-time hoodlum who becomes a powerful gangster in the criminal underworld. Set in the Prohibition era, it follows the ambitious and ruthless protagonist as he climbs the ranks of organized crime, driven by a desire for power and recognition. His journey is marked by violence, betrayal, and the harsh realities of gang life. As he achieves his goals, he becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid, ultimately leading to his downfall. The novel is a stark exploration of the American Dream gone awry, illustrating the cost of unchecked ambition and the inevitable consequences of a life of crime.

    The 4580th Greatest Book of All Time