Hot Rod

By Henry Gregor Felsen

Book Overview

Speed Danger Death These words were splashed across the cover of Hot Rod, warning readers. Written in 1950, this book gives an historical look at the dangers of teens and reckless driving. After WWII, cars became more accessible, and teens were now hitting the roads for excitement. Many horrific accidents occurred all over the country. Felsen was specifically approached to write a book about the dangers of teen drivers. Bud Crayne was the typical tough guy with a chip on his shoulder. Dressed in a black leather jacket, black boots, and blue jeans, he was not the clean cut kid. Adults cursed him, while teens admired him. He drove fast and wild. His idea was to "drive your way out" of any trouble. While it worked for Bud, others weren't as fortunate. A couple of horrific wrecks make him question his need for speed. Stephen King, when interviewed for an article called Reading While Famous, named Felsen as one of four authors who most influenced him when he was young. He actually used Hot Rod and Henry Gregor Felsen as a book Ben Hanscom was reading in the book "It".

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1622720067
• ISBN13: 9781622720064
• Release Date: June 2014
• Publisher: Felsen Ink
• Length: 202 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

A must read book for new, or soon to be drivers!

It's been twenty years since I read this book and I still remember the ending so clearly it scares me. The story is dated, but has many valuable lessons.

A real kick in the head for a wild teenager!

I first found the book among some of my fathers' things and well, I just couldn't put it down. I just finished it and what a book! The story of a 17 yr. old building his own Rod, which was his companion, friend, and enemy. Just him and his ride. Sounds a little like myself. The main character finds the rules of life the only way, the hard way.

A Lasting Impression!

I First read "Hot Rod" in the library of the USS Princeton back in 1958. I have never forgotten the story and have waited all these years for someone in Hollywood to wake up and make a screen version of this great novel..JR

A must for any young driver!

It has been many years since I read this book as a teenager. It made an impression on me such that I still remember it after over 40 years! Now with my grandson driving my thoughts came back to this book and was pleased to find it listed - now hope I can get a copy for him! I VERY much recomend it for any young person just going "car crazy"!

Lasting Impression!

I read this book in 1975 when I was just getting into muscle cars. It made an impression on me. I have always longed to build a car from scratch. This book made a dream seem within reach for for me when I didn't have much cash. I am presently helping my son restore a 1966 Mustang.