C. J. Box

C. J. Box is an American author renowned for his crime and mystery novels, most notably the Joe Pickett series. He won the Edgar Alan Poe Award for Best Novel (Blue Heaven, 2009). Over ten million copies of his books have been sold in the U.S. and abroad, and they have been translated into 27 languages.

Charles James Box Jr. was born in Wyoming. He earned a degree in Mass Communications from the University of Denver. Starting his literary career with the Joe Pickett series, Box introduced Open Season in 2001, which became a New York Times Notable Book.

For his debut, he received the Anthony Award, the Macavity Award, the Gumshoe Award, and the Barry Award—all in the Best First Novel category.

This series, centered around a Wyoming game warden, blends suspense with environmental and social issues, resonating with a wide readership. The series has expanded to over 20 titles, including Savage Run and Winterkill, contributing to over 30 novels.

Beyond the series, Box has also authored several stand-alone novels and short stories. His fiction, Blue Heaven (2008), a stand-alone title, won the Edgar Alan Poe Award for Best Novel. His works have been translated into 27 languages and have sold over ten million copies in the U.S. alone, attesting to his broad appeal and significant impact on contemporary crime writing.

He has also been honored with international accolades, including the Prix Calibre 38 (France) and the Maltese Falcon Award (Japan). His continued excellence in writing led to the 2016 Western Heritage Award for Literature by the National Cowboy Museum and the 2017 Spur Award for Best Contemporary Novel by the Western Writers of America.

Additionally, his narratives are being adapted for TV. ABC is adapting The Highway into Big Sky, and Paramount+ and Spectrum Originals are adapting Joe Pickett's series. Box serves as an executive producer for both series.

C. J. Box resides in Casper, Wyoming. He enjoys fishing, golfing, and engaging in outdoor activities.

Photo credit: www.cjbox.net