The Shootist

by Glendon Swarthout
The Shootist cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Western
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  • ID: 10119
  • Added: 2026-01-15
  • Updated: 2026-01-15
  • Publisher: Harvill Secker
  • Published: 1975-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Shootist follows the life of J.B. Books, a legendary gunfighter who learns he has terminal cancer. As he grapples with his impending death, Books reflects on his past and the impact he has had on the world around him. The novel is a profound meditation on the nature of heroism and the price of fame, set in a time when the Wild West is giving way to modernity. /n/n Written by renowned author Glendon Swarthout, The Shootist is a masterful blend of historical fiction and Western genre elements. The novel delves into the complexities of its protagonist's character, offering a nuanced portrayal of a man who is both feared and respected. With its richly drawn setting and compelling narrative, The Shootist is a timeless exploration of the human condition.

Reviews
Falmouth Public Library · 2026-01-15
funny 4.00

The Shootist is a unique blend of violence and dark comedy, making it both intense and entertaining. The character-based humor adds a layer of enjoyment to the story.

This review highlights the book's unusual combination of violence and dark comedy, which creates a captivating and enjoyable reading experience. The reviewer notes that the rich, character-based humor is a standout feature, making the story as fun to read as it is intense. They appreciate how the dark comedy balances the more serious themes, adding depth and entertainment value. Overall, the book is praised for its ability to keep readers engaged with its unique blend of tones.

Quick quotes

    Very violent. Yet also very funny.

    There's a rich, character-based vein of dark comedy that runs throughout The Shootist that makes it as fun to read as a ...

    The relationship between John ...

Kevin Tipple's Corner · Kevin Tipple · 2013-11-01
masterpiece 4.50

The Shootist is a masterpiece and a must-read for anyone who enjoys Westerns. It uses genre boundaries to explore deeper themes and character dynamics.

This book is a standout in the Western genre, offering a rich and nuanced exploration of its characters and themes. Kevin Tipple highlights how the novel masterfully uses the conventions of Western fiction to delve into deeper, more universal issues. They praise the book's ability to resonate with readers on multiple levels, making it a compelling read. The relationships and character development are particularly noteworthy, adding depth to the story. Overall, it's a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a thoughtfully crafted novel.

Quick quotes

    Overall, The Shootist is a masterpiece and a must-read for anyone who enjoys Westerns.

    Like the best genre fiction, it uses the boundaries to explore deeper themes and character dynamics.

    The Shootist is a gripping Western novel that follows the story of an aging gunslinger, JB Books, as he faces his own mortality.

Vin Pulp · Vin Pulp · 2010-02-15
moving 4.50

The Shootist is a moving and richer experience than the movie adaptation. It offers a deeper insight into the mind of the protagonist.

Vin Pulp found the book to be a much richer experience than the movie, offering a deeper and more moving exploration of the protagonist's mind. They were pleasantly surprised by the depth of the character development and the emotional resonance of the story. The reviewer appreciates how the book delves into the complexities of the character, making it a more nuanced and fulfilling read. Overall, they highly recommend the book for its emotional depth and insightful portrayal of the protagonist.

Quick quotes

    A very important book.

    I saw the movie first and was pleasantly surprised to find the book a even richer experience.

    A moving ...

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