William Kent Krueger


#### Full Name and Common Aliases
William Kent Krueger is an American novelist, best known for his Cork O'Connor Mystery Series.

Birth and Death Dates


Krueger was born on September 23, 1950. There is no information available about his death date.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: American
Profession: Novelist

Early Life and Background


Krueger grew up in LeSueur, Minnesota, a small town along the Minnesota River Valley. His early life was deeply influenced by the people and landscapes of rural America, which would later become integral to his writing. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Iowa's Writers' Workshop, where he earned his MFA degree.

Major Accomplishments


Krueger has written numerous novels across several genres, but it is his Cork O'Connor Mystery Series that has garnered him widespread recognition and acclaim. The series follows the adventures of a former Minnesota sheriff who navigates the complexities of small-town life in the North Woods. This series includes notable titles such as "Iron Lake," "Boundary Waters," and "Pilfered Spirits." Krueger's novels often explore themes of family, identity, and social justice, set against the stunning backdrop of the American wilderness.

Notable Works or Actions


In addition to his Cork O'Connor Mystery Series, Krueger has written standalone novels like "The Turning Key" and "Ordinary Grace," which was a New York Times bestseller. His work is not only recognized for its literary merit but also for its authentic portrayal of the American West and its indigenous peoples.

Impact and Legacy


Krueger's impact on literature extends beyond his own body of work. He has been instrumental in promoting literacy and writing programs, particularly in Minnesota. Through workshops and lectures, he shares his passion for storytelling with aspiring writers, fostering a sense of community among readers and writers alike.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Krueger is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:

Authentic Voice: His writing captures the essence of rural America in all its complexity, creating a deep emotional connection with readers.
Literary Merit: His work is consistently praised by critics and readers alike for its thoughtful exploration of social issues and rich characterization.
* Community Engagement: Through his workshops and public appearances, he has become an advocate for the power of literature to unite people and foster empathy.

By examining Krueger's life and work, we gain a deeper understanding of why his words continue to resonate with readers. His commitment to exploring complex themes through authentic storytelling has left a lasting impact on contemporary American literature.

Quotes by William Kent Krueger

I don't know any real billionaires.
"
I don't know any real billionaires.
She kept secrets, her own and those told to her. I guess you’d call it integrity.
"
She kept secrets, her own and those told to her. I guess you’d call it integrity.
Conscience was a devil that plagued the individual. Collectively, a people squashed it as easily as stepping on a daisy.
"
Conscience was a devil that plagued the individual. Collectively, a people squashed it as easily as stepping on a daisy.
When I pray, Odie, I never pray for perfection. I pray for forgiveness, because it’s the one prayer I know will always be answered.
"
When I pray, Odie, I never pray for perfection. I pray for forgiveness, because it’s the one prayer I know will always be answered.
The tale I’m going to tell is of a summer long ago. Of killing and kidnapping and children pursued by demons of a thousand names. There will be courage in this story and cowardice. There will be love and betrayal. And, of course, there will be hope. In the end, isn’t that what every good story is about?
"
The tale I’m going to tell is of a summer long ago. Of killing and kidnapping and children pursued by demons of a thousand names. There will be courage in this story and cowardice. There will be love and betrayal. And, of course, there will be hope. In the end, isn’t that what every good story is about?
Which turned out to be a thing I couldn’t do. Not because imagination failed me, but because I was afraid to dream in that way. In my whole life, I could recall no dream ever coming true.
"
Which turned out to be a thing I couldn’t do. Not because imagination failed me, but because I was afraid to dream in that way. In my whole life, I could recall no dream ever coming true.
It’s hard to say good-bye and almost impossible to accomplish this alone and ritual is the railing we hold to, all of us together, that keeps us upright and connected until the worst is past.
"
It’s hard to say good-bye and almost impossible to accomplish this alone and ritual is the railing we hold to, all of us together, that keeps us upright and connected until the worst is past.
He knew there was no magic to wipe clean the slate of memory. You just learned how to move on.
"
He knew there was no magic to wipe clean the slate of memory. You just learned how to move on.
But somewhere in the vault of our hearts, in a place our brains can’t or won’t touch, the worst is stored, and the only sure key to it is in our dreams.
"
But somewhere in the vault of our hearts, in a place our brains can’t or won’t touch, the worst is stored, and the only sure key to it is in our dreams.
I don’t mind dying; I just don’t want you to die.
"
I don’t mind dying; I just don’t want you to die.
Showing 1 to 10 of 129 results