I was truly bummed to learn that Ira Levin died this week.

I’ve read (and loved) The Boys from Brazil (and it was a kick to discover that the doctor that Ira thanked in the acknowledgments is the father of someone I work with) and The Stepford Wives (the book is far, far better than either movie, thank you very much).

But it was Rosemary’s Baby that I return to, again and again. I read it both for pure enjoyment as well as to study the craft of writing — Levin is one of the rare few authors whose work does both for me — and the scene where Rosemary is drugged and taken to be part of the ceremony is utterly brilliant; the way Levin weaves in the mundane with the surreal is nothing short of masterful.

If you haven’t read Rosemary’s Baby, do so. So what if you’ve seen the movie? The book is better. (They usually are.)

Rest in peace, Ira Levin. Your work will continue to resonate for me. Thank you for your books.