The Shootist [Large Print] [Hardcover]

Glendon Swarthout (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 2006 | Series: Center Point Premier Western (Large Print)

This is the all-time classic novel chosen by the Western Writers of America as one of the best western novels ever wrttten. It is also the inspiration for John Wayne's last great starring role--the acclaimed 1976 film, The Shootist

This special commemorative edition includes a brand new introduction by the author's son, Miles Swarthout, in which he talks about his father's work and the making of the legendary film.

• Chosen by the Western Writers of America as one of the Best Western Novels Ever Written
• Endorsed by Former President Ronald Reagan as "A treasured edition to my library."

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“This is definitely more than a Western; the characterization is flawless, the plot absorbing and convincing.”—Library Journal

(Barbara Branstad Library Journal 20110302)

“A taut, leathery, masterful tale.”—Los Angeles Times

(Los Angeles Times 20110302)

“A treasured addition to my library.”—Ronald Reagan

(Ronald Reagan 20110302)

“A classic—an incredible tale about an incredible man by an incredible author. . . . It’s a fascinating tale, and once started, is difficult to leave until the final sentence has been absorbed.”—Arizona Republic

(Robert Shotwell Arizona Republic 20110302)

“Chilling . . . grisly . . . extremely exciting to the very end.”—Times of London

(Times of London ) --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

About the Author

A prolific writer in multiple genres, Glendon Swarthout (1918–92) won the Owen Wister Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Western Writers of America and is now in their Hall of Fame. His novels include The Homesman and The Old Colts. Miles Swarthout is the author of The Sergeant’s Lady and the editor of Glendon Swarthout’s short story collection, Easterns and Westerns. He is also a screenwriter who adapted his father’s book for the movie The Shootist.

--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 206 pages
• Publisher: Center Point Publishing; Lrg edition (June 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1585477710
• ISBN-13: 978-1585477715
• Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.9 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,084,031 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the top three best westerns ever, September 20, 1999

By 

John Doc Holliday (Northern Virginia) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Shootist (Paperback)

I would put this book up there with "Lonesome Dove" and "The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales" as one of the best westerns I've ever read. I have owned several copies of this book since I was in high school (1977) and have always enjoyed reading it. The book has a sad air to it, considering the circumstances of its hero, J.B. Books. I have almost come to tears several times while reading it, when I put myself in Books' shoes.

Some of the best lines in Western fiction are in this book:

"..I would not die a death such as I have described." "No?" "I would not. Not if I had your courage. I would not. And especially your skill with weapons." (conversation between Dr. Hostetler and J.B. Books)

"Day after tomorrow," he said. "When you see me then, in my Sunday duds, there will be no tears." (J.B. Books to Bond Rogers)

To overuse a cliche, if you read one western, "The Shootist" should be it.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The sweet clean feel of being born, January 19, 2006

By 

Patrick Dunn (Elko, Nevada United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Shootist (Paperback)

I've had a mild interest in reading this one for a number of years (along with so many others). What a revelation - and a wonderful surprise to discover a truly beautiful book! Extremely well crafted, and sad, and perfect. The unforgiving advance of the protagonist's condition, his treatment by the townsfolk, and the outcome of his final gesture to the them all are simply heartbreaking. The writing is uncluttered, and often just lovely. The most moving book I've encountered for quite some time.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Its all in the way it is presented, December 11, 2002

By 

Pablo - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Shootist (Paperback)

If you think about it, its hard to make a western very intriguing and original, but some authors have an awesome way of putting words together for the enjoyment of the reader. The story itself is good but not extraordinary, but the way its put together and that characterization is what makes it special. It is a very good book !!