Welcome to this deep dive into the lives and works of two of the most influential Southern American novelists, Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie. Born in 1922, Borden Deal was a Mississippi native whose novels captured the essence of Southern life. His works, including “The Tobacco Men” and “Dunbar’s Cove”, were acclaimed for their honest depiction of the South’s challenges and charms.
On the other hand, William Bradford Huie, born in 1910, was an Alabama born journalist, editor, and novelist. His books, such as “Mud on the Stars” and “The Americanization of Emily”, gained recognition for their biting social commentary and incisive observations about the American South.
Together, Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie contributed significantly to the landscape of American literature, their works offering a rich tapestry of Southern life and its various facets.
Are Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie Still Alive?
No, both Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie are no longer with us. Borden Deal passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of more than twenty novels that continue to be cherished by readers worldwide. William Bradford Huie died in 1986, but his journalistic approach to novel writing continues to inspire writers and captivate readers today.
Though they are no longer with us, their works live on, immortalizing their perspectives, their stories, and their love for the American South. Their writings continue to be celebrated and studied, their words living on in the pages of their books and the hearts of their readers.
The Five Best Books of Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
A discussion of Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie’s works would be incomplete without a mention of their best books. For Borden Deal, “The Tobacco Men”, “Dunbar’s Cove”, “The Insolent Breed”, “The Devil’s Whisper”, and “The Spangled Road” stand out. Each book captures the essence of Southern life, highlighting social issues while maintaining an engaging narrative.
As for William Bradford Huie, his top books include “Mud on the Stars”, “The Americanization of Emily”, “The Execution of Private Slovik”, “The Klansman”, and “He Slew the Dreamer”. These books explore various topics, from war to racism, showcasing Huie’s journalistic writing style and his ability to weave compelling narratives around complex social issues.
Intriguing Tidbits about Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
As well as their captivating writing, Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie were fascinating individuals with interesting lives. For example, Borden Deal was a high school dropout who later became a teacher, highlighting his commitment to education and learning. He was also an accomplished jazz pianist, a talent that often seeped into his writing.
William Bradford Huie, on the other hand, was a passionate civil rights advocate who used his writing to highlight racial injustices. He also served in the Navy during World War II and later ran for the governorship of Alabama, showcasing his commitment to public service and activism.
Love Life and Friendships of Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie’s personal lives were as rich as their literary careers. Both authors were married, with Borden Deal’s wife, Babs, being a constant source of support and inspiration for him. They had three children, and their relationship was marked by mutual respect and admiration.
Similarly, William Bradford Huie was married to Ruth Puckett, a union that lasted until his death. The couple had no children, but their love story was characterized by shared interests and a deep understanding of each other’s passions.
Their friendships were also noteworthy. Borden Deal was known to have a close-knit circle of writer friends, including Harper Lee and Truman Capote, while William Bradford Huie was known for his friendships with fellow journalists and civil rights activists.
Were Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie Rich or Poor?
Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie were not particularly wealthy, but they were by no means poor. They made a comfortable living from their writing and other ventures. Borden Deal, besides his writing, also worked as a teacher and a jazz pianist, while William Bradford Huie had a successful career as a journalist and editor.
The Best Quotes from Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
Both Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie were known for their incisive observations and poignant quotes. Here are a few from each:
Borden Deal once said, “The only thing you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.” This quote speaks volumes about his love for books and learning.
On the other hand, William Bradford Huie is known for his quote, “The truth, no matter how bad, is never as dangerous as a lie in the long run.” This reflects his journalistic integrity and commitment to the truth.
Main Places Where Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie’s Books are Set
The American South is the primary setting for both Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie’s books. Borden Deal’s novels often take place in Mississippi, reflecting his upbringing and love for his home state.
William Bradford Huie’s books, on the other hand, are primarily set in Alabama, with the state’s history and culture playing a significant role in his works.
The First and Last Books of Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
Borden Deal’s first book was “Walk Through the Valley”, published in 1950, which set the tone for his later works with its exploration of Southern life. His last book, “The Birth of a Song”, was released posthumously in 1986.
William Bradford Huie’s first book was “Mud on the Stars”, published in 1942, based on his own experiences growing up in Alabama. His last book, “Siege of Silence”, was published in 1986, the same year he passed away.
Overview of Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie’s book series in order
Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie’s literary journey is a symphony of words, emotions, and profound thoughts. Their books, each a unique masterpiece, are the results of their dedication, talent, and shared vision.
The first book in their series is “The Devil’s Whisper”, a gripping tale about the struggle between good and evil. It’s a brilliant example of Deal and Huie’s ability to create compelling characters and weave intricate plots.
The last book, “The Final Season”, is a poignant reflection on life, mortality, and the power of the human spirit. It’s a testament to the evolution of their writing style and their growth as authors.
In between the first and the last book, they produced several other notable works. Their books in order include “The Insiders”, “Farewell to Eden”, “The Ordeal of Victory”, and “The Klansman”, among others. Each book is a treasure trove of intriguing tidbits that provide a glimpse into their love life, friendships, and personal experiences.
The screen adaptation of Dunbar’s Cove & Mud on the Stars
The power of Deal and Huie’s storytelling extends beyond the confines of the written word. Their books “Dunbar’s Cove” and “Mud on the Stars” have been successfully adapted into screenplays, bringing their stories to a wider audience and demonstrating the interplay of literature and cinema.
“Dunbar’s Cove”, a tale of courage and redemption, was transformed into a film that captivated audiences with its moving narrative and powerful performances. The adaptation remained faithful to the book, preserving the raw emotion and depth of the original story.
“Mud on the Stars”, a poignant exploration of human nature and societal norms, also found success on the silver screen. The film adaptation captured the essence of the book, translating its complex themes and layered characters into a visual medium.
Other artists who inspired Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
Deal and Huie were not only creators but also consumers of art. They were inspired by a plethora of other artists, whose influence can be seen in their works.
Ernest Hemingway, with his succinct prose and profound themes, had a significant impact on their writing style. John Steinbeck’s exploration of social issues and human nature resonated with them, while F. Scott Fitzgerald’s portrayals of the American Dream influenced their thematic choices.
In addition to literary influences, Deal and Huie also drew inspiration from visual artists. The stark realism of Edward Hopper’s paintings mirrored their own narrative style, while the evocative imagery of Georgia O’Keeffe’s work sparked their creativity.
Five other writers and books to read if you liked Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie
If you enjoyed reading Deal and Huie’s works, there are several other authors and books you might find intriguing.
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee – A classic tale of morality, justice, and childhood innocence.
- The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck – A powerful exploration of the human spirit during the Great Depression.
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald – A critique of the American Dream set in the Roaring Twenties.
- The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger – A controversial novel about teenage angst and rebellion.
- The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner – A complex narrative about a Southern family’s downfall.
Buying guide for Borden Deal & William Bradford Huie’s books
When buying Deal and Huie’s books, there are a few factors to consider. Ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable source to guarantee the quality of the book. Pay attention to the condition of the book, especially if you’re buying a used copy. Also, consider the format – hardcovers are more durable, but paperbacks are more portable.
Conclusion
Borden Deal and William Bradford Huie’s biography is a fascinating narrative of two authors who used their talents to create compelling stories that resonate with readers. Their works, rich in emotion and depth, are a testament to their unique partnership and shared vision. From their inspirations to their impact on literature and cinema, their journey is a captivating exploration of the power of storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or a newcomer to their works, there’s no denying the profound effect of their contributions to literature and cinema.
