D7

By Sarah Kilfoil

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You have probably heard of James Patterson.

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He is the author of over 40 novels for adults and teens and a huge publishing phenomenon and his books entertain readers looking for a fast-paced, satisfying story. Patterson has sold an estimated 150-million copies of his books worldwide, and, according to his Web site, he was responsible for one out of every 15 hardcover novels sold in 2007.

Amazingly, he has seven books coming out this year, raising the question of how he is able to publish so many books. Well, it is because many of his books are co-authored. Patterson creates the original story by writing a detailed outline and then passes it on to the co-writer, who writes the first draft. Patterson then finishes the book, which can take anywhere from two to seven drafts and the co-writer is always credited.

Patterson's most popular books are his three very popular series; two for adults and one for teens. He has also written other stand-alone books like this year's releases, Sundays at Tiffany's and Sail. His Cross series with the nursery-rhyme titles – like Jack and Jill and Roses are Red – are thrillers featuring forensic psychologist Alex Cross. Cross has worked for the FBI and the Washington, DC, police force dealing with some very gruesome cases. Two of these books – Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider – have been made into movies starring Morgan Freeman.

Patterson has just released the seventh book of his mystery series, the Women's Murder Club, titled 7th Heaven. This series is based around four women, a police officer, a pathologist, a prosecutor and a reporter in San Francisco who work together to solve cases. You may have seen the TV show that aired this year starring Angie Harmon. There are two cases in 7th Heaven – the mysterious disappearance of the governor's 18-year-old son, who has an incurable heart defect, and a series of murders of wealthy couples in their homes, which are then set on fire. The four women must use their talents to determine the truth and work together to solve these horrific crimes.

The teen series Maximum Ride is a huge hit with both younger and older readers. Maximum Ride is not your normal teenager – she can fly, the result of an out-of-control government experiment. Her brothers and sisters share her ability and have created their own family. They are in constant danger of being discovered and brought back into the secret government labs, so they have to rely on themselves and their amazing powers. These novels have short chapters, fast-paced action and they focus on futuristic science and technology, making them great books for teens who don't particularly love reading.

A new series with more of a science fiction bent will debut this summer with a book called The Dangerous Days of Daniel X. This is sure to be another huge bestseller for Patterson.