Jack+London

Jack London (1876 - 1916) was born into the working class to unwed parents. He began working as early as the age of ten, and turned over a majority of his earnings to his parents. He left school by the time he was thirteen and he worked long hours in factories. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed sailing out to the Oakland, California bay, often bringing library books with him.

Jack London was an author, journalist, and a world traveler. He was a strong supporter of socialism for most of his life. He struggled with alcoholism, but still managed to write 10 books by the age of twenty-eight. A few months before his death, London resigned from the Socialist Party. He struggled with illness, alcoholism, debt, and the fear of loosing his creativity. He died on November 22, 1916.

Jack London wrote Call of the Wild in 1903. He tells a story about a dog named Buck who is kidnapped from his owner. He describes the dog's emotions and struggles under those who held him captive. They sold Buck when they decided to move to Canada, and London continues to tell the story Buck's journey of leadership and bravery. London puts a lot of emphasis on emotion in his writing.

(Sarah Collins)