I've always been fascinated with Doc Savage but haven't been able to get into the actual writing. I'm not into his team of agents. The Shadow's agents are more believable and I think that's because the writing of Gibson rises far above Dent's. But that is just my opinion.
The character of Savage is very appealing to me, though. His moral character and devotion to making himself the best he can be is something I aspire to. Yeah, I know, rather juvenile in the face of all that the world faces today. But I think that might just be what this world, this country, needs right now.
Anyhow, I was wondering if anybody could recommend the top 5 stories to read. I have "The Man of Bronze" and a couple of others. I would like to read the best to get an idea of why he is so popular. I've read the two Will Murray Doc/Shadow crossovers. I liked them but I think that's because of The Shadow's presence. So, any ideas of what to read?
I'm with you on the style of writing, I much prefer The Shadow stories. If I were to rank my top pulps based on writing style mine would be The Shadow, The Avenger and then Doc Savage. I haven't read many Doc Savage stories, but I would recommend "The Man of Bronze" and "Brand of the Werewolf." I read them about a year ago and enjoyed both of them. Many years ago I read "The Roar Devil" but it was so long ago I can't recall if I liked it! If you've never read any of The Avenger, I highly recommend the first book, "Justice, Inc" and "The Yellow Hoard" - both of these are really good stories. Hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jeff. Any little bit helps. I have The Man of Bronze and Fortress of Solitude as well as some others. I read "Doc Savage: His Apocalyptic Life" a few months back, hoping it would spark some interest. It did a bit but I just don't think I'll find anything as great as The Shadow.
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