Books Like...
Bad Boy by Jim Thompson is an autobiographical account of the author's early years, from boyhood to early adulthood. It delves into Thompson's shenanigans during his schooldays, his adventures in various early jobs, and his experiences working as a bellboy in a midwestern hotel in the early 1920s. The book provides insights into Thompson's upbringing, his struggles with poverty, and his journey towards fulfilling his passion for writing fiction. Through short chapters, Thompson paints a vivid picture of his colorful early life, laying the foundation for many of the characters and themes that would later appear in his novels.
The narrative in Bad Boy is described as raw, humorous, and occasionally tender. Thompson's writing style is commended for its honesty and lack of pretension, offering readers a glimpse into his formative years with vivid and detailed descriptions of the people and events that shaped him. The book is praised for its entertainment value, addictive quality, and the way it sheds light on the origins of Thompson's dark and twisted storytelling.
If you liked Bad Boy, here are the top 3 books to read next:
The biography 'Savage Art: A Biography of Jim Thompson' by Robert Polito delves into the life of Jim Thompson, a significant figure in 20th-century American fiction. The book explores how Thompson's unique worldview, shaped by his life experiences, influenced his dark and disturbing novels. Polito meticulously separates fact from mythology surrounding Thompson's life, providing a detailed account of the author's influences and writing style. The title 'Savage Art' captures the essence of Thompson's erratic and passionate lifestyle, shedding light on his artistic talent beyond being labeled a pulp fiction writer.
Polito's work offers a close rendering of Jim Thompson's life, providing stunning insight for both longtime fans and newcomers to Thompson's work. The biography is praised for its thoroughness, scholarship, and the exploration of Thompson's autobiographical aspects, making it a must-read for those who appreciate the noir genre and are interested in understanding the man behind the books.
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Save:'Savage Night' by Jim Thompson is a dark and surreal 'noir' classic that follows the story of Carl Bigelow, a contract killer sent to a small town to eliminate a court informer. The book delves into the twisted world of small-town intrigue, amoral characters, and a protagonist who slowly loses grip on reality as he becomes entangled in a love triangle. Thompson's writing style is described as gritty, atmospheric, and filled with unexpected twists, culminating in a violent and bizarre ending that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
I'd caught a slight cold when I changed trains at Chicago; and three days in New York—three days of babes and booze while I waited to see The Man—hadn't helped it any. I felt lousy by the time I arriv... - #3
Save:'The Killer Inside Me' by Jim Thompson is a disturbing and fast-paced thriller that delves into the mind of Lou Ford, a small-town deputy sheriff who harbors a dark and sociopathic side. The book is narrated in the first person by Lou Ford, who presents himself as affable and slow-witted to those around him, while secretly indulging in a spree of calculated murders. The story unfolds in a chillingly realistic manner, showcasing the psychological complexities of a killer living among unsuspecting townsfolk in 1950s Texas.
The narrative style of 'The Killer Inside Me' is described as raw, powerful, and unapologetically dark, drawing readers into the twisted mind of the protagonist. Through a first-person perspective, Jim Thompson skillfully portrays Lou Ford's descent into violence and depravity, keeping the readers on edge with its fast-paced storytelling and unsettling exploration of the protagonist's psyche.
I’d finished my pie and was having a second cup of coffee when I saw him. The midnight freight had come in a few minutes before; and he was peering in one end of the restaurant window, the end nearest...
