Classic Books to Read After Watching 'The Outsiders'
Of the many lessons viewers learn from watching "The Outsiders," starring C. Thomas Howell, an appreciation for classic literature stands out among them. Howell plays a Greaser named Ponyboy whose interest in and knowledge of literary material makes the film a resource for books that may help moviegoers gain a deeper perspective on this character.
"Gone With the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell
This romance novel is introduced during the scene where Ponyboy and Johnny are hiding in an abandoned church after one of them kills a Soc. While shopping for groceries, Johnny bought "Gone With the Wind" as a pastime for them because it is Ponyboy's favorite book. A copy of the novel shows up during a later scene in "The Outsiders" when Johnny is in the hospital after running back into the church while it was on fire. Although there is little romance in this movie, Ponyboy and Cherry appeared to have a connection despite their Greaser-Soc differences.
"New Hampshire" by Robert Frost
This collection of Frost's work includes the poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay," which Ponyboy recited during the scene where he and Johnny watched the sunset. Ponyboy said he never knew what it meant but, as "The Outsiders" ended, Johnny's letter provided more clarity in his understanding of this poem. The letter could be considered Johnny returning the favor of Ponyboy showing him that beautiful things not only exist outside of their dim circumstances, but are within reach.
"The Hustler" by Walter Tevis
In the opening scene, Ponyboy left a movie theater where the film adaptation of this novel was playing. This young Greaser was later attacked by a group of Socs but not before stating that he had Paul Newman, who stars in "The Hustler," on his mind. Viewers who read S.E. Hinton's novel on which "The Outsiders" is based are likely to be familiar with Ponyboy's interest in looking tough like Newman.
Reading "The Hustler" may not only serve as an act of appreciation for both films but also helps moviegoers learn more about the material that led to Newman's Oscar nomination for Best Actor.
"Gone With the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell
This romance novel is introduced during the scene where Ponyboy and Johnny are hiding in an abandoned church after one of them kills a Soc. While shopping for groceries, Johnny bought "Gone With the Wind" as a pastime for them because it is Ponyboy's favorite book. A copy of the novel shows up during a later scene in "The Outsiders" when Johnny is in the hospital after running back into the church while it was on fire. Although there is little romance in this movie, Ponyboy and Cherry appeared to have a connection despite their Greaser-Soc differences.
"New Hampshire" by Robert Frost
This collection of Frost's work includes the poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay," which Ponyboy recited during the scene where he and Johnny watched the sunset. Ponyboy said he never knew what it meant but, as "The Outsiders" ended, Johnny's letter provided more clarity in his understanding of this poem. The letter could be considered Johnny returning the favor of Ponyboy showing him that beautiful things not only exist outside of their dim circumstances, but are within reach.
"The Hustler" by Walter Tevis
In the opening scene, Ponyboy left a movie theater where the film adaptation of this novel was playing. This young Greaser was later attacked by a group of Socs but not before stating that he had Paul Newman, who stars in "The Hustler," on his mind. Viewers who read S.E. Hinton's novel on which "The Outsiders" is based are likely to be familiar with Ponyboy's interest in looking tough like Newman.
Reading "The Hustler" may not only serve as an act of appreciation for both films but also helps moviegoers learn more about the material that led to Newman's Oscar nomination for Best Actor.
Heading to the movies? Get an instant mobile coupon to use at select theaters for free popcorn!
Published by Nicole A. - Featured Contributor in Arts & Entertainment
She has written and produced several short movies. She currently works as a freelance editor while continuing to make independent films. View profile
Movie Review: the Outsiders (1983)The Outsiders, based on the novel by S. E. Hinton, launched the careers of at least seven actors as they made up the gang called the Greasers. The plot would remind you somewhat...- Analysis of The Outsiders by S.E. HintonA literary analysis of the book The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton.
From "Outsiders" to American Heartthrobs: Brat Packers Explode onto the...The Outsiders (1983) was a movie that helped launch the careers a number of talented young actors, known as the "Brat Pack," who went on to become highly successful leading men...- Classic Must-Read NovelsReading is very important in American culture, and they're millions of books that have been published throughout the years. These are a few quick novels that are worth reading.
- Five Classic Books Your Teenager Should Read This SummerThese classic novels frequently make the summer reading lists of schools across the country, but even more importantly, they are exciting tales your teenager will enjoy reading.
- Guide to Using S.E. Hinton's Novel The Outsiders in the Classroom
- The Outsiders Remembered
- A Ghetto Fairytale: Gangs and the Real Life SE Hinton
- Lesson Plan: The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
- NteQ Lesson Plan for SE Hinton's the Outsiders
- Classic 80's Movies: The Outsiders
- The Outsiders Conflict Essay
2 Comments
Post a CommentGone With The Wind, a true classic, one of my favorites! And I loved The Outsiders and all of S.E. Hintons's books. I was so pleased to read this article.
Thanks, great info!