Reader's Advisory for Ernest Hemingway

As one of my favorite authors I thought I would create a list based on what Ernest Hemingway would like to read. Writing in simple sentences with heavy undertones Hemingway is moved by stories of men who must test their virtues. Notions of courage and honor as well as cowardliness and infidelity are often feature plot lines. Morbidity and death are also addressed by Hemingway. Romance is common but from a males perspective such that his descriptions aren't sappy they are cold and direct but still manage to tingle the female reader. Being an avid hunter and fisher many of his stories derive from his experiences. This is also the case concerning his war themed stories as he was an ambulance driver for the Red Cross during WWI. His writings are also reflective of his ex-expatriate status and circle of friends, having spent much time in Europe and Cuba throughout his life. Based on his own life experiences and the types of things he liked to write about I've selected five stories. I mainly used Guys Read and Worldcat.org Genres to find my selections.

Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson (2008)

A beautifully written novel discussing growing older (facing death) and coming to terms with one's past, this novel would be a favorite of Hemingway. The writing is simple and descriptive with heavy undertones. Much of the plot is based on the main character's memory of his strong father and the realizations of his imperfections. Also Hemingway did a good job of describing the scenery as does Petterson, making you feel like you are sitting in the woods of Norway or mountains of Spain.

Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane (1968)

Hemingway's penchant for war stories and battles with courage would surely put the Red Badge of Courage at the top of his list. Additionally, the author's ability to convey the impact of war upon one's psychological state is a trait well-developed by Hemingway as well.

Ugly American by Eugene Burdick and William J. Lederer (1958)

This collection of short stories provides humorous yet pointed descriptions of Americans abroad and specifically in Southeast Asia during the cold war era. Hemingway's travels, concerns over American foreign policy and love of Cuba would make this a great addition to his collection.

The Whole Sky is Full of Stars by Rene Saldana (2007)

This is the story of a young male who lost his father and now must face manhood on his own. With a boxing competition, underhanded backroom dealings, along with coming-of-age tribulations this story would surely catch Hemingway's attention.

Black Dogs by Ian McEwan (1992)

McEwan's noted abilities are not unlike Hemingway's in their ability to create simplistic yet suspenseful prose. Black Dogs focuses upon matters of the heart intertwined with the realities of the world, concepts Hemingway explores thoroughly in For Whom the Bell Tolls. The French country side setting during WWII would also attract Hemingway.