I, The Jury

novel by Spillane

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June 29, 2026

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I, The Jury is the debut novel by Mickey Spillane, published in 1947. It introduced the hard-boiled detective Mike Hammer, a character known for his brawling and brutal nature. The novel, and Spillane's subsequent works, are characterized by violence and sexual themes, which were popular with readers despite sometimes disturbing critics. Spillane's writing style, while often criticized, brought him significant popular success.12

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Mike Hammer
hard-boiled mystery books (beginning with I, the Jury, 1947) by Mickey Spillane and of subsequent films and television series.
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hard-boiled mystery books (beginning with I, the Jury, 1947) by Mickey Spillane and of subsequent films and television series.
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Mickey Spillane
His first novel—I, The Jury (1947)—introduced detective Mike Hammer, who appeared in other works, such as My Gun Is Quick (1950) and The Big Kill (1951). Kiss Me, Deadly (1952) was made into a highly successful movie (1955). In the early 1950s Spillane retired from writing after…
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His first novel—I, The Jury (1947)—introduced detective Mike Hammer, who appeared in other works, such as My Gun Is Quick (1950) and The Big Kill (1951). Kiss Me, Deadly (1952) was made into a highly successful movie (1955). In the early 1950s Spillane retired from writing after…
Read More