Black Jack by Max Brand (1922)

Name: Black Jack
Author: Max Brand

The narrative follows Terence Hollis, the son of the notorious outlaw Black Jack Hollis, as he navigates the complexities of his identity and the legacy of his father. The story begins in a small cattle town where a violent confrontation leads to the death of a man, which deeply affects Terence's aunt, Elizabeth Cornish, who has raised him. Elizabeth, a strong and determined woman, has dedicated her life to proving that blood does not determine one's character, and she wishes to adopt Terence formally, despite the dark legacy of his father. As Terence approaches his twenty-fifth birthday, he grapples with the weight of his lineage and the expectations placed upon him. The tension escalates when Sheriff Joe Minter, the man who killed Black Jack, arrives at the Cornish ranch for a celebration. Terence's internal struggle culminates in a confrontation with the sheriff, where he ultimately shoots Minter in a moment of rage, believing he is avenging his father's death. Following the shooting, Terence is faced with the consequences of his actions. He initially feels pride in his lineage but soon realizes the burden it carries. He decides to leave the ranch and seek a new life, distancing himself from the shadow of his father. Throughout his journey, he encounters various characters, including Denver, a former associate of Black Jack, who tempts him back into a life of crime. As Terence navigates the challenges of his identity, he ultimately rejects the path of violence and crime, choosing instead to forge his own destiny. The story explores themes of identity, legacy, and the struggle between one's past and the desire for a better future. In the end, Terence's journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns to embrace his heritage while striving to define himself on his own terms.

By Max Brand · First published 1922 · Genre: Western, Adventure, Fiction · 38 chapters · 92,975 words

First lines

It was characteristic of the two that when the uproar broke out Vance Cornish raised his eyes, but went on lighting his pipe. Then his sister Elizabeth ran to the window with a swish of skirts around her long legs. After the first shot there was a lull. The little cattle town was as peaceful as ever with its storm-shaken houses staggering away down the street.

What this Textopian page supports

Black Jack is listed on Textopian as a novel by Max Brand, dated 1922 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Max Brand
Date: 1922 CE
Language: English
Genres: Western, Adventure, Fiction, Drama, Romance
Length: 92,975 words
Structure: 38 chapters, 2,176 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Max Brand fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Western — The book is set in the American West and features themes of frontier life, gunfighting, and rugged individualism.
Adventure — The plot involves action-packed sequences and the protagonist's journey through various challenges.
Fiction — The narrative is a work of fiction, exploring human experiences and relationships.
Drama — The story delves into emotional conflicts and character development, highlighting personal struggles.