James Patterson is one of very few authors, specialised in the genre of criminal thriller, who provides his readers not with merely the possibility to kill time, during the course of reading his books, but who also allows them to get an insight onto the fact that the concept of crime, in cotemporary America, cannot be discussed as thing in itself. That is no matter how innately wicked the characters of serial killers in his famous novels might appear, author discusses them as the mere reflection of greater evil, which in its turn, is often being described as such that originates in Americas governmental institutions. Therefore, even though that many people think of Pattersons books as such that are closely related to the concept of entertainment, their literary value does not solemnly correspond to authors ability to write in clear, cohesive and inventive manner, which allow readers to follow the plot with apparent ease, but also to the fact that by reading Pattersons books, people are being instilled with the idea that self-reliant individuals are much better protected from crime, as opposed to those who rely solemnly on cops, within a context of trying to enjoy a safe living. We can say that Pattersons novels are highly didactic in their essence, despite the fact that author can hardly be described as someone who actively strives to force readers to adopt his outlook on moral dilemmas, associated with Americas socio-political realities. Apparently, Patterson was able to realise one universal
truth in order for the author to be able to successfully promote his worldview to readers, it is very important for such writer not to step over the line, while doing it. This is the reason why readers seem to find Pattersons novels, which are being written in rather casual manner, as being particularly insightful. It is namely, Patersons easy-going writing style and his ability to get down to the very core of analysed subject matters, which had won him a millions of fans across the globe. We can draw certain parallels between James Patterson and Jack London. Just like London, Patterson writes in utterly realistic manner. Just like London, he does not strive to impose his political opinions on readers, and just like London, Patterson never felt being ashamed of admitting the fact that the prospect of receiving a monetary reward motivates him to indulge in literary activities more then any other factor. In his article The Man Who Cant Miss, Lev Grossman provides us with the insight on James Patterson as individual who fits the least into the traditional concept of literary genius: The fact is, Patterson is an affront to every Romantic myth of the artist we have. Hes not tortured. Hes not poor. He doesnt work alone, and hes way too unsentimental about his work (Grossman, p. 108). As the mental products of a true intellectual, Pattersons books are free of cheep sentimentalism and lengthy discourses on the subject of morality, which better then anything else points out to their high literary value.