"The Big Sleep" is a classic detective novel written by Raymond Chandler in 1939. It features the iconic private investigator Philip Marlowe, who is hired by a wealthy family to resolve a blackmail case involving the daughter, Carmen Sternwood. As Marlowe delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit, murder, and corruption. The novel is notable for its complex plot and rich characterizations, showcasing Chandler's signature hard-boiled style. It explores themes of morality and the darker side of human nature, making it a significant work in the noir genre. The book has been adapted into films, most famously in 1946, starring Humphrey Bogart.