76: The Blacklist Part 6: He Ran All The Way: John Garfield

Set in Key West and Cuba during the Great Depression, 'To Have and Have Not' tells the story of Harry Morgan, a fishing boat captain who becomes involved in smuggling and other illegal activities to survive. The novel explores themes of class struggle, economic hardship, and the moral compromises people make in desperate times. Harry's transformation from an honest fisherman to a hardened criminal reflects the harsh realities of the era. Hemingway's portrayal of the characters and their struggles is unflinching and realistic. The novel offers a stark commentary on the social and economic inequalities of the 1930s.

Published in 1934, 'The Postman Always Rings Twice' tells the story of Frank Chambers, a drifter who stops at a rural California diner and begins an affair with Cora, the wife of the diner's owner, Nick Papadakis. The novel follows their complex and violent relationship as they plot to murder Nick, leading to a series of tragic events. The book is known for its explicit portrayal of adultery, homicide, and the moral ambiguity of its characters, which caused it to be banned in Boston and sparked significant controversy upon its release. It is regarded as one of the most important crime novels of the 20th century and has been adapted into several films and other media.

Published in 1947, 'Gentleman's Agreement' is a powerful exploration of antisemitism in the United States. The novel follows Philip Green, a journalist who pretends to be Jewish to write about antisemitism, exposing the subtle and pervasive forms of prejudice in American society. The book became a bestseller and was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film.

Bethany Hamilton's "In Body and Soul" is a memoir detailing her life, focusing on her experience of losing her arm to a shark attack and her subsequent journey of healing, faith, and perseverance. The book explores themes of resilience, spiritual growth, and the importance of finding purpose in the face of adversity. It offers a personal account of her physical and emotional recovery, her return to professional surfing, and her ongoing commitment to inspiring others. Hamilton shares her struggles and triumphs, providing a powerful message of hope and determination. The book is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome challenges and find meaning in life's unexpected turns.

Red Channels was a pivotal document in the McCarthy era, published by American Business Consultants in June 1950. It named 151 actors, writers, musicians, and other professionals in the entertainment industry as alleged Communist sympathizers or 'liberal dupes,' effectively blacklisting them from employment. The publication had a profound impact on the careers of those listed, including notable figures like Orson Welles, Leonard Bernstein, and Dorothy Parker.