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David Grann is a prolific writer known for his gripping narratives, whether they are in the form of mysteries or non-fiction tales.
His works transport readers to the farthest corners of the globe, unraveling real-life mysteries and adventures.
In this blog post, we will explore David Grann’s books in order, providing you with detailed synopses, genres, release dates, and additional interesting information about each title.
For your convenience, a printable list of Grann’s books and book series in order is also attached at the bottom of this post. I hope you find this list useful! ✨
Books in Order | Common Questions | Printable List
About the Author
David Grann is an American journalist and author known for his investigative reporting and non-fiction writing. He was born on March 10, 1967. Grann has written for prominent publications such as The New Yorker and The New York Times Magazine, covering a wide range of topics, including crime, politics, and historical events.
He gained widespread recognition and acclaim for his books, particularly “The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon,” published in 2009. This book tells the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who disappeared in the Amazon rainforest while searching for a mythical ancient city. The book was later adapted into a feature film in 2016.
Grann’s other notable work includes “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI,” published in 2017. This book investigates a series of murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans in the 1920s, which led to the formation of the FBI. “Killers of the Flower Moon” received widespread critical acclaim and is set to be adapted into a film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro.
Grann is celebrated for his meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and ability to uncover forgotten or overlooked historical events. His works often blend elements of true crime, history, and adventure.
David Grann’s Books in Order
Let’s explore Grann’s books in the order they were released. Each entry will include the book’s title, release date, a brief synopsis, and the genre it belongs to:
2009
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon
Release Date: February 24, 2009
Grann delves into the mystery of Percy Fawcett, a British explorer who ventured into the Amazon in 1925 to find an ancient civilization. Fawcett’s disappearance became an obsession, leading Grann on a quest to uncover the truth. The narrative explores the deadly allure of the Amazon and the generations of explorers it has consumed
2010
The Devil & Sherlock Holmes
Release Date: 2010
“The Devil and Sherlock Holmes” is a collection of non-fiction stories that delves into intriguing mysteries and peculiar events. In this book, readers are introduced to a variety of captivating narratives, ranging from the mysterious death of a Sherlock Holmes expert to the story of an elderly bank robber who refuses to retire.
The collection also includes accounts of a Polish detective investigating a novelist’s connection to a murder and a French imposter infiltrating a Texan family. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book explores the depths of human behavior, obsession, and the enigmatic aspects of real-life events, leaving readers fascinated and pondering the mysteries of the human psyche.
2017
Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Set in the 1920s, this true crime story uncovers a chilling conspiracy against the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. After oil is discovered beneath their land, Osage members are mysteriously murdered. The newly formed FBI, led by J. Edgar Hoover, investigates, revealing a sinister plot. Grann skillfully narrates this haunting tale of murder, greed, and justice.
2018
The Old Man and the Gun: And Other Tales of True Crime
Release Date: September 4, 2018
This mesmerizing collection includes “The Old Man and the Gun,” the inspiration for a film. It narrates the story of a bank robber and prison escape artist who models himself after infamous figures, even in his seventies. The collection also features “True Crime,” following a Polish detective’s investigation, and “The Chameleon,” recounting the tale of a French imposter.
The White Darkness
Release Date: October 30, 2018
This thrilling true story revolves around Henry Worsley, a British special forces officer obsessed with Antarctic exploration. Modeled after Ernest Shackleton, Worsley embarks on a perilous journey to cross Antarctica on foot. Grann weaves a tale of adventure, courage, and obsession against the backdrop of the brutal Antarctic landscape.
2023
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder
Release Date: April 18, 2023
In 1742, a ship named the Wager, wrecked off the Patagonian island during a secret British mission, leaving thirty men stranded. After months of anarchy and desperation, some survivors built a makeshift craft and sailed to Brazil, celebrated as heroes.
However, another group, arriving later, painted a different picture: of mutiny, violence, and murder among the crew. This contradiction led to a high-stakes court martial, where lives hung in the balance.
Grann’s expert storytelling brings this chaotic world to life, exploring human behavior under extreme conditions and unraveling a complex tale of survival, betrayal, and justice, making “The Wager” an enthralling blend of historical mystery and courtroom drama.
Common questions
If you’re new to David Grann’s novels or just curious about his work, you might have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate his books and writing journey:
What is the order of David Grann’s books?
David Grann has written several books, including “The Lost City of Z“, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and “The Devil and Sherlock Holmes.” While these are his most prominent works, he has also contributed numerous articles to publications like The New Yorker. For a complete list of his publications in chronological order, readers can refer to his bibliography.
Do you need to read David Grann’s books in order?
While each of David Grann’s books stands alone as a separate work, they do not form a series, so there is no specific chronological order in which they need to be read. Readers can choose any of his books based on their individual interests without feeling obligated to read them in a particular sequence.
What other books did David Grann write?
Apart from his well-known books, David Grann has written extensively for various publications, including The New Yorker and The New York Times Magazine. His articles cover a wide range of topics, showcasing his talent for investigative journalism and storytelling.
Has David Grann received any awards for his writing?
Yes, David Grann has received several awards and honors for his outstanding journalism and books. Some of his notable awards include the George Polk Award, the Edgar Award, and the Samuel Johnson Prize. These accolades recognize his contributions to investigative reporting and non-fiction writing.
Is “Killers of the Flower Moon” a true story?
Yes, “Killers of the Flower Moon” by David Grann is a true story. It meticulously investigates the Osage Indian murders in the 1920s, revealing a shocking conspiracy that led to the birth of the FBI. The book is based on historical events and extensive research conducted by Grann.
What nationality is David Grann?
David Grann is an American author and journalist. He is of American nationality.
What is the order of David Grann’s books?
- The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon (2009)
- The Devil & Sherlock Holmes (2010)
- Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI (2017)
- The Old Man and the Gun: And Other Tales of True Crime (2018)
- The White Darkness (2018)
- The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder (2023)
Printable List
Prefer a handy, offline reference for David Grann’s books? Look no further!
Download and print this curated list to keep track of your reading journey through David Grann’s captivating stories.
Final thoughts
Through meticulous research, immersive storytelling, and an unparalleled ability to capture the human spirit, Grann has crafted literary masterpieces that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
His exploration of historical enigmas, true crimes, and daring adventures not only informs but also entertains, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
I hope you enjoyed this list of David Grann’s books in order.
Happy reading! ❤️