No. 12 Naomi Hirahara

Introduction

Naomi Hirahara was born in California. Naomi received her bachelor's degree in international relations from Stanford University. She used to a reporter and editor. She began to write books in 1997 after returning to California. She writes a lot of mysteries as well as many non-fiction novels.

Selected Works

• Summer of the Big Bachi (2004)
• Gasa-Gasa Girl (2005)
• Snakeskin Shamisen (2006)
• Los Angeles Noir 2007
• The Darker Mask 2008

Recognition&Awards

Her novel, Snakeskin Shamisen is the winner of the 2007 Edgar Award for Best Paperback Original Novel. Summer of the Big Bachi (2004) was named one of "The Ten Best Mysteries and Thrillers of 2004" by the Chicago Tribune and a Publishers Weekly "Best Books of 2004" pick.

Influences

Naomi makes great contribution on introducing Japanese American culture to the America. She used to be as an editor of The Rafu Shimpo, the largest Japanese American daily newspaper. She explores a new writing area for A/PIA writer by publishing numerous mysteries and gained widely recognition for her works.(Naomi official website)