Edgar Awards 1965: Complete list of winners

The 1965 Edgar Awards showcased the Mystery Writers of America’s enduring commitment to recognizing excellence across all corners of the genre. Named after Edgar Allan Poe, the Edgars remain one of the most prestigious honors in mystery fiction, celebrating everything from hardboiled detective novels to atmospheric thrillers and beyond. That year’s winners reflected the breadth of mystery writing, with recognition extending beyond adult crime fiction to honor outstanding work for younger readers as well.

Among the standout honorees was Marcella Thum, who took home the Edgar Award for Best Juvenile with her engaging mystery Mystery at Crane’s Landing. The recognition underscored the Awards’ long-standing tradition of celebrating mystery writing that captures the imagination of young readers—a category that has consistently produced both entertaining page-turners and critically acclaimed titles. Thum’s win highlighted how the genre’s appeal transcended age groups, with authors crafting intricate plots and compelling puzzles for audiences of all ages.

The 1965 Edgar Awards ceremony brought together the mystery community to celebrate the year’s finest contributions to the genre. Here’s a closer look at the complete list of winners from that landmark year:

Best Juvenile

• Mystery at Crane’s Landing by Marcella Thum