Arthur William Upfield, an English-Australian author, is well-known for his contributions to detective fiction and thriller novels. He is most famous for his Inspector Bonaparte series, which features an Australian police officer named Napoleon Bonaparte. Bonaparte, also known as "Boney," is described as a half-caste Aborigine, and the series is based on Upfield's extensive knowledge of Aboriginal culture. Upfield's own experiences and travels around Australia greatly influenced his writing, and he is often regarded as an expert on Aboriginal culture and customs.\n \nUpfield was born in Hampshire, England, in 1890 and immigrated to Australia in 1911. He fought with the Australian military during World War I and spent the following years traveling around the country. During this time, he developed a deep appreciation for the Australian landscape and the Aboriginal people who inhabited it. Upfield was also a member of the Australian Geological Society and participated in numerous scientific expeditions, further expanding his knowledge of the country and its people.
Upfield's works remained popular after his death in 1964, and in the 1970s, they were adapted into the Australian television series "Boney." The series was based on the DI Napoleon Bonaparte series and featured the character of Boney as a detective in the Australian police force. The show was a success and helped to solidify Upfield's reputation as a master of detective fiction. In addition to his detective fiction, Upfield also wrote several standalone novels and contributed to various magazines and newspapers throughout his career.
In conclusion, Arthur William Upfield was a prominent author of English-Australian descent who is best known for his contributions to detective fiction. His experiences traveling around Australia and his knowledge of Aboriginal culture greatly influenced his writing and helped to establish him as an expert in the field. Upfield's works have remained popular and enduring, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in Australia and beyond.
Inspector Bonaparte Books
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Title
Year
Goodreads
Amazon
1
The Barrakee Mystery / The Lure of the Bush
1929
2
The Sands of Windee
1931
3
Wings Above the Diamantina / Wings Above the Claypan
1936
4
Mr. Jelly's Business/Murder Down Under
1937
5
Winds of Evil
1937
6
The Bone is Pointed
1938
7
The Mystery of Swordfish Reef
1939
8
Bushranger of the Skies / No Footprints in the Bush