I just recently finished reading The Chinese Parrot by Earl Derr Biggers. I must say I was riveted the entire time! Of course by the time they revealed the whole outcome of the mystery, I felt just like Charlie who claimed he could kick himself numerouse times for not figuring it out sooner. Overall the story was well-written and the characters believable and likeable. The whole story was very puzzling throughout the whole case.

The strange thing though was the discussion of the pearls and Charlie's carrying of them. I could have sworn I have read it before or perhaps seen part of this movie many years ago as this sounded so familiar to me. I know I haven't read it previously so perhaps I caught part of the movie on television ages ago. Can't say for certain. I do intend to read the script on Rush's site for the movie version as I am very interested in how much they left in.

Chris

Dear Chris,

I agree with you about Biggers' "The Chinese Parrot." I think that you will enjoy reading through the script of "Charlie Chan's Courage," which is based on this story.

As I read through both versions, what struck me was the tension that built up as Charlie Chan and Bob Crawford had to continually put off Madden's increasing impatience (!) with the delayed delivery of the pearls! I found myself becoming uncomfortable as Bob had to invent reason after reason for the wait.

I hope that more people will read this and the other Charlie Chan books.

Sincerely,
Rush

I don't see why not. Grant it though people are more likely willing to wait for a book to come out in movie form then to read it. However, lots of movies that are novelized are sometimes more detailed. Take The Phantom Menace novelized by Terry Brooks. Although I haven't read it, I know he goes into a lot more detail than the film.

I've read Ian Fleming's "Casino Royale" which was made into a parody Bond movie. The book was good though.

Chris

I enjoyed most of the DerBigger's stories....my favorite was definately the first one he wrote....i can't remember the name but i believe the 1st chapter's title was something along the lines of "Kona weather"