Welcome to Hard Times
Welcome to Hard Times by E.L. Doctorow is a historical fiction novel published by Fawcett on July 12, 1988. Set in the harsh landscape of the Dakota Territory, the story unfolds in the town of Hard Times, which becomes the target of a violent sociopath. Following the devastation, the de facto mayor, Blue, takes in two survivors, Jimmy and Molly, as he attempts to rebuild the town while Molly harbors a desire for vengeance against the outlaw.
Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of survival and resilience in the face of brutality. As Blue welcomes new settlers to Hard Times, the dynamics of community and personal struggle are intricately woven into the fabric of frontier life. This edition spans 201 pages and is presented in English, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships amidst chaos and destruction.
Official synopsis Publisher
Hard Times is the name of a town in the barren hills of the Dakota Territory. To this town there comes one day one of the reckless sociopaths who wander the West to kill and rape and pillage. By the time he is through and has ridden off, Hard Times is a smoking ruin. The de facto mayor, Blue, takes in two survivors of the carnage–a boy, Jimmy, and a prostitute, Molly, who has suffered unspeakably–and makes them his provisional family. Blue begins to rebuild Hard Times, welcoming new settlers, while Molly waits with vengeance in her heart for the return of the outlaw. Here is E. L. Doctorow’s debut novel, a searing allegory of frontier life that sets the stage for his subsequent classics.
“A forceful, credible story of cowardice and evil.”
–The Washington Post
“We are caught up with these people as real human beings.”
–Chicago Sun-Times
“Dramatic and exciting.”
–The New York Times
“Terse and powerful.”
–Newsweek
“A taut, bloodthirsty read.”
–The Times Literary Supplement
“A superb piece of fiction.”
–The New Republic
From the Trade Paperback edition.
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