Ian Rankin Biography

Ian Rankin is a celebrated Scottish author, widely known for his crime novels. Born in the humble village of Cardenden, Fife, Scotland, on April 28, 1960, his transformative journey began in this coal mining community where he developed his early fascination with stories and storytelling.

Early Years

Rankin attended Beath High School in Cowdenbeath, where his interest in literature began to take root. An avid reader from a young age, he was particularly drawn to the escapism offered by novels, many of which incited his curiosity about the complexities of human nature, an aspect that would later feature prominently in his own works.

After high school, Rankin went on to pursue a degree in English Literature at the University of Edinburgh. His passion for writing was ignited during his time at the university where his exploration of the narrative forms across crime, mystery, and literary genres enriched his understanding of storytelling.

First Books

Rankin’s first book, ‘The Flood’, was published in 1986 while he was still a postgraduate. Two years later, ‘Knots & Crosses’, the first in his now-famous series about Inspector John Rebus, was released. Although it was not initially categorized as a crime novel, Rankin’s intriguing blend of contemporary societal issues with mystery and suspense made the Rebus series a trailblazer in the genre of Tartan Noir, crime novels set in Scotland.

Meet Inspector Rebus

Since the initial launch of the Rebus novels, Rankin went on to write a total of 22 books in the series, transforming the seemingly hard-nosed, often rebellious, yet deeply empathetic character of John Rebus into a beloved figure among crime fiction enthusiasts. Despite the Rebus series being set within the distinct sociology of Scotland, the universal themes and intricate plot lines have garnered an international readership.

Standalone Novels

Besides the Inspector Rebus series, Rankin has penned numerous standalone novels, such as ‘The Complaints’, ‘Doors Open’ and ‘Blood Hunt’. He has also dabbled in writing for graphic novels, notably the comic book series ‘Hellblazer’, as well as contributing to television and radio scripts.

Rankin’s work is often characterized by its gritty realism, stark commentary on societal issues, and a nuanced understanding of human nature. His writing paints a vivid image of Edinburgh, a city that portrays contradiction; its picturesque beauty glossing over a murkier underbelly of crime and societal unrest.

Awards and Accolades

Over the years, Rankin has been recognized for his outstanding contribution to the crime fiction genre. He has been awarded the prestigious Edgar Award, CWA Dagger, and the Grand Prix du Roman Noir Etranger, among others. In 2002, he was acclaimed as a “Champion of Modern Literature” in the Sunday Herald’s poll of Scotland’s favorite author and in 2008, he was awarded Hawthornden Fellowship.

Despite his significant contribution to the literary world, it is his dedication to his craft, his unwavering authenticity, and his unique brand of storytelling that built Rankin’s reputation as an acclaimed crime novelist. Today, Ian Rankin stands amongst the best in the genre, his evocative depiction of Scotland lifting his work from crime fiction into the realm of literature.

Ian Rankin Private Life

Away from his professional life, Rankin maintains a private life with his wife, Miranda, and their two sons, Jack and Kit. Kit’s diagnosis with Angelman Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, influenced Rankin’s work, particularly in ‘The Naming of the Dead’ where he introduced a character with the same condition.

Rankin’s journey speaks to his honed talent as a writer and his ability to use fiction as a medium to explore and challenge the status quo. Today, Ian Rankin’s name is synonymous with crime fiction.

Inspector Rebus Novels in Order

Knots and Crosses (1987)
Hide and Seek (1991)
Tooth and Nail (original title Wolfman) (1992)
Strip Jack (1992)
The Black Book (1993)
Mortal Causes (1994)
Let It Bleed (1996)
Black & Blue (1997)
The Hanging Garden (1998)
Dead Souls (1999)
Set in Darkness (2000)
The Falls (2001)
Resurrection Men (2002)
A Question of Blood (2003)
Fleshmarket Close (published in the US as Fleshmarket Alley) (2004)
The Naming of the Dead (2006)
Exit Music (2007)
Standing in Another Man’s Grave (2012)
Saints of the Shadow Bible (2013)
Even Dogs in the Wild (2015)
Rather Be the Devil (2016)
In a House of Lies (2018)
A Song for the Dark Times (2020)
A Heart Full of Headstones (2022)