Max Brand

Max Brand Biography

Max Brand, the pen name of Frederick Schiller Faust (May 29, 1892 – May 12, 1944), was a remarkably prolific American author renowned for his Western novels and the creation of the iconic character Dr. James Kildare. Born in Seattle, Washington, Faust was orphaned at a young age and raised by his maternal aunt in California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, but left before completing his degree.

Under various pseudonyms, including George Owen Baxter, Evan Evans, and George Challis, Faust authored an estimated 500 novels and countless short stories, contributing significantly to American popular fiction. As Max Brand, he penned classics such as Destry Rides Again and the Dan Barry series, which captivated readers with their vivid storytelling and complex characters.

Beyond Westerns, Faust created the character Dr. James Kildare, a young medical intern whose adventures were serialized in pulp magazines and later adapted into films, radio programs, and television series, cementing Kildare's place in American pop culture.

During World War II, despite a heart condition, Faust became a war correspondent for Harper's Magazine. Tragically, he was mortally wounded by shrapnel while accompanying American soldiers in Italy and passed away on May 12, 1944. His legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to entertain and inspire readers worldwide.

Trivia About Max Brand

• Faust wrote under multiple pseudonyms, including George Owen Baxter, Evan Evans, and George Challis.
• He created the character Dr. James Kildare, who became the central figure in various films, radio shows, and TV series.
• Despite his prolific writing career, Faust preferred poetry and considered his pulp fiction work as a means to earn a living.
• He is estimated to have written over 30 million words during his career.

Famous Quotes by Max Brand

• "A man who has done his best has done everything."
• "There is a kind of strength that is almost frightening in the resolute endurance of a man quiet determined to do his duty."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Max Brand?

Max Brand was the pen name of Frederick Schiller Faust, a prolific American author known for his Western novels and the creation of Dr. James Kildare.

What are some notable works by Max Brand?

Some of his notable works include Destry Rides Again, the Dan Barry series, and the Dr. Kildare stories.

How did Max Brand die?

Max Brand died on May 12, 1944, after being mortally wounded by shrapnel while serving as a war correspondent in Italy during World War II.

Related Literary Movements

Max Brand's work is associated with the Western genre, contributing significantly to its popularity in American literature. His creation of Dr. Kildare also places him within the realm of medical drama narratives.

Explore more about Max Brand on eBookTakeAway