Yondering is a departure from L'Amour's traditional Western themes, offering a mix of adventure stories and character studies primarily set in the first half of the 20th century. The book includes tales inspired by his own life experiences, such as seafaring and World War II. It was revised in 1989 to include additional stories.
Hondo by Louis L'Amour is set in the 1870s and follows the story of Hondo Lane, a cavalry scout and dispatch rider, as he navigates the dangers of Apache territory. The novel explores themes of survival, romance, and conflict between the Apache and white settlers. It is known for its vivid descriptions of the desert landscape and its portrayal of the Apache with empathy and understanding.
The Walking Drum is a captivating historical novel by Louis L'Amour, set in the 12th century. It follows Mathurin Kerbouchard, a young man from Brittany, as he embarks on a journey filled with danger, adventure, and revenge. Kerbouchard's quest takes him through various roles and cultures, ultimately leading him to the Valley of Assassins. The novel explores themes of freedom, knowledge, and the human spirit.
No Traveller Returns is a historical fiction novel that explores the lives of the crew on the SS Lichenfield as they navigate the dangers of the high seas during World War II. The story delves into themes of human longing, adventure, and the interconnected fates of those on board. Completed by Beau L'Amour from his father's original work, it offers a unique glimpse into Louis L'Amour's early literary style.
Last of the Breed is a gripping adventure novel by Louis L'Amour, telling the story of Major Joe Makatozi, a Sioux pilot who escapes from a Soviet prison camp and uses his ancestral survival skills to evade capture in the harsh Siberian wilderness. The novel explores themes of survival, cultural heritage, and personal resilience as Mack navigates the unforgiving environment and confronts his pursuers.
Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures Volume II offers readers a glimpse into the author's creative process through previously unpublished works. The book includes complete short stories, partial novels, and notes that span genres from Westerns to science fiction and historical fiction. Beau L'Amour provides commentary and insights into his father's writing career and the development of these manuscripts.
In 'Education of a Wandering Man,' Louis L'Amour recounts his life journey, from leaving school at fifteen to explore the world, to becoming one of the most popular writers of his time. The book highlights his passion for reading and learning, which he pursued through diverse experiences as a merchant seaman, boxer, and hobo. L'Amour's memoir is a testament to the power of self-education and the importance of embracing life's adventures.
With over 300 million books sold, Louis L'Amour is one of the bestselling authors of all time. All 120 of his books remain in print. But the greatest story L'Amour ever penned was his own. He spent the early part of his life traveling in a circus, working as a lumberjack and miner, circling the world as a seaman, winning over 50 fights as a professional boxer, and serving in WWII.
Today on the show, I talk about both the personal and professional aspects of Louis' life with his son, Beau L'Amour. We discuss some of Louis' adventures and the autodidactic education he gave himself by way of a voracious reading habit. We then turn to how Louis got started as a writer and how he cut his teeth writing for pulp magazines before breaking through as a Western novelist and becoming a blockbuster success in his sixties.
Resources Related to the Podcast
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