THE MAN WHO RODE MIDNIGHT

by Elmer Kelton ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 4, 1987

Another of Kelton's (The Time It Never Rained, The Good Old Boys) standard--but definitely not canned--20th-century westerns: the heartfelt story of an old rancher fighting off ruthlessly encroaching civilization. Nearly 70, Wes Hendricks has led a tough and colorful life as a cowboy and broncobuster, and all he asks now is that he be left alone on his poor, hardscrabble ranch in the west Texas hill country. Not a chance--the powers that be in the little town of Big River (including Wes' old cowboy pal, druggist/mayor Orville Levitt) have decreed that an artificial lake will be created to generate tourism, and Wes' ranch stands squarely in their way. Wes is offered great sums of money and is even threatened by the strong-arm tactics of Sheriff Wally Vincent, but he stands firm. His grandson Tater--a smartaleck young college student--is sent out to convince Wes to give up and accept the ""comforts"" money can buy, but soon Tater is caught up in the wild beauty of the ranch (not to mention the charms of Glory B. Dawson, a beautiful young woman who runs the neighboring ranch). Finally, a double-cross brings Wes down--his own lawyer and his citified son (Tater's dad) conspire against him, and Wes is forced to sign away his land. But an unexpected twist brings a not-unexpected happy ending. Strong values, straightforward conflicts, and a realistic (and therefore somewhat depressing) modern West, all set against a colorful Texas backdrop. Poignant and highly readable.

Pub Date: Sept. 4, 1987

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1987

Categories: FICTION