Louis L’Amour

State: North Dakota

Louis Dearborn L’Amour (1908–1988) was one of the most prolific and beloved American authors of the 20th century, best known for his sweeping Western novels that brought the American frontier vividly to life. Born in Jamestown, North Dakota, L’Amour grew up with a deep love of storytelling, history, and adventure. Before becoming a full-time writer, he led an adventurous life as a miner, seaman, and soldier, experiences that deeply informed his fiction. Over his lifetime, he wrote more than 100 novels, 250 short stories, and several works of nonfiction, with over 320 million copies of his books in print. His most iconic works include Hondo, Last of the Breed, and the extensive Sacketts series. Known for his meticulous research, strong moral themes, and rugged heroes, L’Amour helped define the Western genre for generations of readers. In 1984, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His legacy continues through his family’s preservation of his works and extensive fan base worldwide.

Genres: Adventure, Historical Fiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Thriller, Western

Audiences: Adult, All Ages, Young Adult