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The Hunters
256 pages, 2012
Captain Cleve Connell has already made a name for himself among pilots when he arrives in Korea during the war there to fly the newly operational F-86 fighters against the Soviet MIGs. His goal, like that of every fighter pilot, is to chalk up enough kills to become an ace. But things do not turn out as expected.
Mission after mission proves fruitless, and Connell finds his ability and his stomach for combat questioned by his fellow airmen: the brash wing commander, Imil; Captain Robey, an ace whose record is suspect; and finally, Lieutenant Pell, a cocky young pilot with an uncanny amount of skill and luck.
Disappointment and fear gradually erode Connell's faith in himself, and his dream of making ace seems to slip unreachable. Then suddenly, one dramatic mission above the Yalu River reveals the depth of his courage and honor.
Originally published in 1956, The Hunters was James Salter's first novel. Based on his own experiences as a fighter pilot in the Korean War, it is a classic of wartime fiction. Now revised by the author and back in print on the sixty-fifth anniversary of the Air Force, the story of Cleve Connell's war flies straight into the heart of men's rivalries and fears.
In 'The Hunters' by James Salter, the protagonist, Cleve Connell, grapples with his identity as a fighter pilot. He's constantly trying to prove himself, which leads to a lot of internal conflict. This book encourages us to explore our own identities and not let others define us.
Salter doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of war. He paints a vivid picture of the fear, uncertainty, and danger that come with being a fighter pilot. It's a reminder to appreciate the sacrifices made by those in the military.
Connell is driven by his desire for glory and recognition. However, he learns that this pursuit can lead to isolation and dissatisfaction. This book encourages us to look into our own motivations and question if they're truly fulfilling.
Despite the challenges he faces, Connell never gives up. He shows incredible resilience in the face of adversity. This book inspires us to be resilient in our own lives, no matter what obstacles we may face.
James Salter explores the complexity of human relationships in 'The Hunters'. Connell's relationships with his fellow pilots are marked by competition, camaraderie, and tension. This book encourages us to dig deeper into our own relationships and understand their complexities.
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The Hunters is a novel of beautifully modulated, always human, enduring significance. It is a timeless literary masterpiece.
Richard Ford - Pulitzer-winning NovelistThe Hunters is a novel of courage, honor, and duty, a timeless tribute to the men who fought in the Korean War.
Michael Dirda - Pulitzer-winning CriticThe Hunters is a novel of rare and profound power, a brilliant examination of the costs of war.
Susan Sontag - Influential CriticRecommendations
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