For every light that shines, there must always fall a shadow, a dark side - Noir.

Noir has infiltrated our world, like some insidious disease, and we cannot get rid of it. The threads of its growth and development have been hinted at but no-one has yet tried to bind them together, to weave the whole picture. This book takes you down the dark highways of the Noir experience, and examines the history of Noir in literature, art, film, and pulps. Sensitive readers are warned - you may find the Noir world disturbing, terrifying and ultimately pessimistic.

What's in this Pocket Essential guide? As well as an introductory essay, nine of the most important noir authors are featured in more detail. Not only that, but there is a handy reference section to find out more information.