I remember asking my very literate wife for a novel recommendation as we
sat down to dinner one evening, in 2015, when I was between books to read.
She suggested Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey. I let it download to my
Kindle while we enjoyed our pierogis or whatever and as she offered to get
the dishes, I dove into the book. Four hours later I was still sitting
there, riveted. Reading Kadrey is a bit like riding a fast Italian
motorcycle. When you’re doing it there isn’t room in your brain for
anything else. When I’m done I’m exhausted, relaxed, and happy.
Since that day I have read every word he has published. All thirteen
Sandman Slim books. Every series. Every novel. Every anthology. Every
short story. He remains my favorite author.
I like reading action books because they take me to another place. In
Kadrey’s worlds the other places are hell, heaven, beyond. The
characters embody internal struggles and overcome the scary places we
inhabit as human beings. The characters evolve, become inclusive, and
provide representation in ways that are unexpected and kind while adding
to the adventure.
I like following authors on social media because, well, they are literate
and sometimes you’ll read something there accidentally written in your
favorite character’s voice. They say you shouldn’t meet your heroes
but I’ve met Richard a couple of times at his book readings and he has
always been interesting and kind.
Richard Kadrey is also a noted photographer and musician. His band is
called A Demon in Fun City.
– Damon Buxton, guitarist and composer