About

Michael Thomas Barry is the critically acclaimed author of eight traditionally published nonfiction books on varied subjects. He was born in Chicago, grew up in Wheeling, Illinois, and currently resides in Orange, California with his wife, Christyn, and their Bernedoodle, Teddy.

The author is an alumnus of the California State University, Fullerton with Bachelor of Arts degrees in history and criminal justice. He is a member of the Phi Alpha Theta history honor society.

A former columnist for CrimeMagazine.com (2012-2017), Michael penned the weekly column “This Week in Crime History.” Currently, he is a staff reviewer for the New York Journal of Books.

Barry has made numerous TV and radio appearances that include Investigation Discovery Channel’s “Deadly Women and True Nightmares” TV series and PBS SoCal’s “Real Orange.” Other literary memberships include The Mystery Writers of America and the International Federation of Journalists.

Other Works

  • In the Company of Evil Thirty Years of Calfornia Crime, 1950-1980

    2016
  • America's Literary Legends: The Lives and Burial Places of 50 Great Writers

    2015
  • Literary Legends of the British Isles: The Lives and Burial Places of 50 Great Writers

    2013
  • Great Britain's Royal Tombs: A Guide to the Lives and Burial Places of British Monarchs

    2012
  • Murder and Mayhem 52 Crimes that Shocked Early California, 1849-1949

    2012
  • Fade to Black Graveside Memories of Hollywood Greats, 1927-1950

    2011
  • Final Resting Places Orange County's Dead & Famous

    2010

Awards and Recognition

  • 2012 National Indie Excellence Book Awards - Finalist, true crime
  • 2012 & 2013 International Book Awards - Winner, true crime & history general
  • 2013 Beverly Hills Book Awards - Winner, arts & entertainment
  • 2014 London Book Festival - Runner-up finalist, nonfiction history
  • 2011,2013, 2014, & 2015 Readers' Favorite International Book Awards - Silver, Gold & Finalist
  • 2012, 2014 & 2015 Next Generation Indie Book Awards - Finalist
  • 2017 Independent Publisher Book Award - Bronze Medal for best regional nonfiction