Jack Reacher: A Mysterious Profile (Mysterious Profiles)
by Lee Child
Women SleuthsAdded on January 14, 2026
Description
The #1 New York Times–bestselling author reveals the story behind "one of this century's most original, tantalizing pop-fiction heroes" (The Washington Post).In this short piece, the creator of Jack Reacher shares the origins of the ex-military cop who now makes use of his skills in the civilian world—a place where he never feels quite at home. In addition, Lee Child reflects on writing and his own life story: the importance of character; making the transition from a television career to a literary career; how his famous character was almost named Franklin—and how he wound up being called Reacher instead. "Jack Reacher is today's James Bond, a thriller hero we can't get enough of. I read every one as soon as it appears." —Ken Follett, international-bestselling author of The Pillars of the Earth"Every Reacher novel delivers a jolt to the nervous system." —Kirkus Reviews
Reader Reviews
Lee Child is an English author who received a formal English education learning Latin, Greek and Old English. He worked a long time in television and started writing after buying some legal note pads and pencils. His wife began to worry possibly as the pay cheques had dried up, and he mentions going to the supermarket with her. She’s a small lady, he’s a big guy. He reached to the top shelf for a nice older lady, and his wife remarked that if he didn’t quite make in as a writer, he could always
Lee Child describes the creation of the Jack Reacher character. Very enjoyable for Reacher fans.
A very well-done narrative of a fascinating character, in a great series. The author in his own words gives the reader a pretty thorough history of the creation of "Jack Reacher". Even more than a description of where "Jack" came from is how he was created? And the situations in the authors' life that lead to the writing of this series. This short novella is more of an author's autobiography mixed in with the thought process needed to create the "Jack Reacher" series. It made for a very enjoyabl
