From Here to Eternity and Thin Red Line, both wartime novels (and
major motion pictures), established Jones as one of the greatest
American writers of the 20th-century. For this first and only collection
of his stories (out of print for more than 15 years), arranged
chronologically, James Jones wrote, in addition to a general
introduction, individual and very personal prefatory remarks that
illuminate his development as a writer over 20 years, beginning in 1947.
The 13 penetratingly sensitive, remarkably varied stories are about men,
women, and children in circumstances ranging from war to marriage to
childhood to courtship. Each story is distinguished by the classical
simplicity, emotional resonance, and lasting impact that is the hallmark
of the great short-story writer. Brand new introduction by the author's
daughter, Kaylie Jones. The James Jones Literary Society will
participate in the promotion of this book.
Superbly realized stories . . . Personal, vigorous, meaningful.
--Library Journal
We feel the impact of Jones's vitality. He is masculine, uninhibited,
not abashed by whatever he uncovers of human weakness and sexuality.
--Chicago Sun-Times
The thirteen stories are anything but dated . . . a compact social
history of what it was like for Mr. Jones's generation to grow up, go to
war, marry, and generally, to become people in America.
--The Nation
James Jones (1921-1977) became internationally famous with his first
novel, From Here to Eternity, a classic portrayal of Army life in
WWII, which won the National Book Award. Over the next 25 years, he
wrote 10 more books, both fiction and non-fiction.
Kaylie Jones, daughter of James Jones, is the author of four novels,
including A Soldier's Daughter Never Cries (also a major film) and
Celeste Ascending.
