John Jakes
John Jakes was an American author renowned for his historical fiction, particularly his sweeping family sagas set against the backdrop of American history. Born in 1932, Jakes gained prominence with his "North and South" trilogy, which intricately weaves the lives of two families during the tumultuous years leading up to and during the American Civil War. This series not only captivated readers with its rich character development and detailed historical context but also became a successful television miniseries, further solidifying Jakes's place in popular culture. Beyond the trilogy, Jakes wrote numerous other works, including the "American Bicentennial" series and standalone novels like "The Bastard," which explored themes of identity and conflict in early American society. His ability to blend historical events with personal narratives has made his work significant in the genre of historical fiction, influencing many writers who followed. Jakes's legacy endures through his contributions to literature and his role in bringing historical narratives to a wider audience, making the complexities of America's past accessible and engaging for readers.
Famous Quotes
View all 18 quotes“I have always had a special affinity for libraries and librarians, for the most obvious reasons. I love books. (One of my first Jobs was shelving books at a branch of the Chicago Public Library.) Libraries are a pillar of any society. I believe our lack of attention to funding and caring for them properly in the United States has a direct bearing on problems of literacy, productivity, and our inability to compete in today's world. Libraries are everyman's free university.””
“Be yourself. Above all, let who you are, what you are, what you believe, shine through every sentence you write, every piece you finish.””
“Mr. Buckley, let me explain it this way. And I'll do so very carefully and slowly so that even you will understand it. If I was the sheriff, I would not have arrested him. If I was on the grand jury, I would not have indicted him. If I was the judge, I would not try him. If I was the D.A., I would not prosecute him. If I was on the trial jury, I would vote to give him a key to the city, a plaque to hang on his wall, and I would send him home to his family. And, Mr. Buckley, if my daughter is ever raped, I hope I have the guts to do what he did.””
