About
Mark Okrant
Author · Professor · Tourism Researcher · Avid Traveler
The Man Behind the Mystery
A Life in Tourism & Mystery
Mark Okrant is the author of fifteen books, including the beloved Kary Turnell mystery series, praised for its geographic settings and surprising twists. He is a professor emeritus of geography and tourism, and a past president of the Travel and Tourism Research Association, a leading global organization for tourism researchers. Mark first discovered his talent for writing mysteries when he created a mystery textbook for his students.
He has conducted tourism research in New Hampshire, Maine, South Dakota, Alaska, Canada, Romania, and Puerto Rico, and his articles have appeared in magazines and newspapers for the past thirty years. He is a regular contributor to The Laker, a regional lifestyle, tourism, and community magazine serving New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. An avid traveler, Mark is also passionate about collecting Inuit art, watching classic westerns, playing table tennis and, most importantly, spending as much time as possible with his family.
Just for Fun
5 Behind-the-Scenes Facts
For avid detective enthusiasts who like to read between the lines.
Mark has run three marathons plus the Mount Washington Road Race — but never learned to swim.
Mark rode a motorcycle to college every day . . . rain, shine, or snow.
Mark’s favorite food is a big bowl of spaghetti.
Mark has been a Braves baseball fan since age nine, and counts a signed letter from Hank Aaron among his most valued treasures.
As a college freshman, Mark was required to take a remedial English composition course.