Horace McCoy

Horace McCoy was an American writer, best known for his hardboiled novels and his work in the film industry. His most famous novel, 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' is considered a classic of American literature.

Books

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This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

    Cover of 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' by Horace McCoy

    This novel is a bleak depiction of the desperation of the Great Depression, set in the world of a grueling dance marathon. The two main characters, a young man and a woman, meet and form a partnership in order to survive the cruel contest. As they endure physical and mental exhaustion, the woman convinces the man to help her commit suicide, leading to his arrest and conviction for murder. The title refers to the practice of shooting horses that are too injured or old to be useful, suggesting a bleak view of human value and life.

    The 2544th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye

    Cover of 'Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye' by Horace McCoy

    Set against the gritty backdrop of post-war America, this gripping noir novel delves into the turbulent life of Ralph Cotter, a cunning and ruthless criminal who navigates the underworld with a mix of charm and brutality. As he orchestrates a series of daring heists, Ralph's insatiable ambition and disregard for morality lead him into a web of betrayal, corruption, and violence. The narrative explores themes of existential despair and the relentless pursuit of power, painting a stark portrait of a man trapped in a cycle of self-destruction, where the promise of a better tomorrow is perpetually out of reach.

    The 7201st Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. I Should Have Stayed Home

    Cover of 'I Should Have Stayed Home' by Horace McCoy

    Set against the backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, this gripping novel follows the disillusionment and struggles of Ralph Carston, a young man who leaves his small-town life in Georgia with dreams of becoming a movie star. As he navigates the cutthroat world of the film industry, Ralph encounters a series of setbacks and moral dilemmas that challenge his ideals and aspirations. The story paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities and broken dreams that often accompany the pursuit of fame, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the loss of innocence in a city that promises so much yet delivers so little.

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