Free Grass (ePub)

Ernest Haycox (1899-1950) was an American writer of fiction known for his prolific contributions to the genre of Western literature. Born in Portland, Oregon, Haycox nurtured a passion for reading and the Old West from an early age, which later became the cornerstone of his writing career. He attended the University of Oregon before serving in the United States Army during World War I. Post-war, Haycox continued his studies and eventually focused on becoming a professional writer. His narrative style helped redefine the Western genre with a more sophisticated and historically grounded approach, bridging the gap between traditional dime novels and richer literary works.

Haycox's writing is characterized by authentic depictions of frontier life and a keen understanding of human nature, qualities that earned him a wide readership. His 1930 novel 'Free Grass' is an exemplar of his skill in creating complex characters and engaging plots that resonate with themes of freedom and the struggle for survival in the American West. Haycox's impressive body of work has left an indelible mark on American literature, and he is often mentioned alongside contemporaries such as Zane Grey and Louis L'Amour. Despite his death at a relatively young age of 51, Ernest Haycox's influence endures, and his novels continue to captivate readers with their vivid portrayal of the rugged landscape and dynamic spirit of the West.