Kathy Reichs

Chicago, Illinois, USA

Born 1948

Biography

Kathleen Joan Toelle Reichs, known as Kathy Reichs, is an American forensic anthropologist and author. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she holds a Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology from Northwestern University. She is a professor of anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and serves as a forensic anthropologist for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in North Carolina and the Laboratoire de Sciences Judiciaires et de Médecine Légale for the province of Quebec. Reichs has assisted in identifying remains from mass graves in Rwanda and Guatemala. Her extensive real-world experience forms the foundation for her bestselling Temperance Brennan crime novels, which feature a forensic anthropologist as the protagonist. The series inspired the popular FOX television show 'Bones,' for which Reichs also served as a producer.

Selected Thoughts

«My experience as a forensic anthropologist lends itself to this genre. You don’t have to make things up; you just report what you see.»

«The dead do speak, if you know how to listen.»

«I think Temperance Brennan is a great role model for young girls, and I’ve really enjoyed writing her for all these years.»

Writing Style

Reichs' writing style is characterized by its meticulous scientific detail, drawing heavily from her expertise in forensic anthropology. Her narratives are fast-paced, suspenseful thrillers that combine intricate plotlines with accessible scientific explanations. She employs a first-person perspective for her protagonist, Temperance Brennan, allowing readers to experience the mysteries through the eyes of a highly intelligent, often sarcastic, and deeply observant scientist. Her prose is direct, engaging, and rich with jargon that she skillfully demystifies for the lay reader.

Key Themes

Forensic science and its applicationJustice and investigation of violent crimeThe role of the strong female professionalHuman remains and decompositionEthical dilemmas in scientific research