Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories

"Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories" by Rex Beach is a collection of early 1900s tales that begins with the story of Bill Hyde, an ex-convict fresh out of Deer Lodge. Plagued by his history, Bill falls back into criminal habits while trying to make a fresh start in the rugged American West and Alaska. As Bill navigates this new world, he faces tough choices and an unlikely friendship with Doctor Evan Thomas. From prison to fleeing thief, the first story shows Bill’s dark sense of humor and talent for crime. Right after leaving jail, he tries to avoid his past life, but soon he's stealing again, first from a regular guy and then from a small-town worker's payroll. His travels lead him to Alaska, where he meets Doctor Thomas, who hopes to change him for the better. The first tale lays the groundwork for Bill's adventures, and also touches on the themes of friendship, identity, and the hard road back into society after being locked away.