Max Brand & Frederick Schiller Faust 
Riders of the Silences 
Including ‘Crossroads’

Riders of the Silences stands as a monumental testament to the expansive landscapes of the American West and the rugged individualism that defined early twentieth-century frontier literature. This anthology weaves together a rich tapestry of stories, showcasing an array of literary styles from the stark realism of cowboy life to the poetic undercurrents that define the genre’s aesthetic. The collection’s significance lies not only in its contribution to Western literature but also in its exploration of themes such as justice, freedom, and the human spirit’s resilience against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness. The diversity of narratives within offers readers a comprehensive insight into the epoch that shaped much of American folklore and myth. The anthology benefits immensely from the singular vision of its authors, Max Brand and Frederick Schiller Faust, who are in fact one and the same person. Faust, writing under the pseudonym Max Brand, was a prolific author whose works contributed significantly to the Western genre. His stories, characterized by their intricate plots and deep psychological insight, reflect a broader historical and cultural movement that romanticized and critically examined the American frontier’s legacy. This collection, therefore, stands as a cohesive exploration of the themes dear to Faust’s heart, executed with a narrative prowess that has cemented his legacy in American literature. For enthusiasts of Western literature and scholars alike, Riders of the Silences offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of American storytelling. Through its varied narratives, the anthology invites readers to explore the complexities of frontier life, guided by the nuanced and well-crafted prose of Max Brand. This collection not only serves as a valuable educational resource, shedding light on the historical and cultural conditions of the time but also as a vibrant portal to the enduring allure of the American West. Readers are encouraged to delve into these tales for a comprehensive understanding of the genre and the indelible mark it has left on American literary tradition.

Circa l’autore

Max Brand, the chosen pen name of Frederick Schiller Faust (1892–1944), was a prolific writer best known for his Westerns, adventure novels, and poetry. Although ‘Riders of the Silences’ is often celebrated among his extensive body of work, Faust authored over 500 novels and numerous short stories under various pseudonyms. His narrative style is marked by a combination of fast-paced action and an exploration of the complexities of human nature, often set against the rugged backdrop of the American West. Max Brand’s stories have enchanted readers with their blend of heroism, romance, and the enduring allure of the frontier. Born in Seattle, Washington, and raised in the rural San Joaquin Valley of California, Brand’s firsthand experience with the West informed the authentic and vivid settings of his fiction. Despite his prolific writing, Brand was not confined to Westerns; he ventured into other genres, including detective fiction, historical romance, and even science fiction. However, it was the Western genre where his legacy was truly cemented, with characters such as young gunslinger John Silence from ‘Riders of the Silences’ embodying the stoic, enigmatic heroes for which Brand became renowned. His influence on the Western genre is indelible, shaping the character archetypes and plot constructs that are cherished by aficionados of Western literature even today.