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Kent Haruf

Bestselling Author • 3 Series • 8 Books

3
Series
8
Books
3
Active

🎯 Where Should I Start?

Best Starting Point
Publication Order of Plainsong Books
Start with: Plainsong (1999)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
Start with: The Tie That Binds (1984)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of Anthologies
Start with: Writers on Writing (2001)

About Kent Haruf

Kent Haruf is an award-winning literary fiction novelist from Pueblo, Colorado. He was born in 1943 to Louis Hoerauf, a Methodist preacher who changed the family name to Haruf since he was frustrated that nobody seemed to get it right. The name rhymes with sheriff though the change did not seem to work as nobody says it right to this day. The Harufs had a rootless life as Louis moved all over Colorado preaching during which time his children were encouraged to find whatever jobs they could find in the community they found themselves in. As such, Kent remembers living in more than three small towns in Colorado which colored his view of the rural setting that he writes about in Holt, the setting for all his six novels. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Plainsong Books series, Kent Haruf has since expanded their repertoire to include numerous successful works across various genres. Their writing style, characterized by compelling narratives and memorable characters, has earned them a dedicated global readership with millions of fans worldwide.

📚 All Book Series by Kent Haruf

Publication Order of Plainsong Books
3 books 1999–2013
1

Plainsong

Plainsong continues the Publication Order of Plainsong Books story arc with Kent Haruf's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1999
2

Eventide

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Plainsong Books with Eventide, another outstanding contribution from Kent Haruf.

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2004
3

Benediction

Benediction continues the Publication Order of Plainsong Books story arc with Kent Haruf's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2013
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
3 books 1984–2015
1

The Tie That Binds

The Tie That Binds is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kent Haruf have come to expect.

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1984
2

Where You Once Belonged

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Where You Once Belonged, another outstanding contribution from Kent Haruf.

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1990
3

Our Souls at Night

Our Souls at Night continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Kent Haruf's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2015
Publication Order of Anthologies
2 books 2001–2002
1

Writers on Writing

Writers on Writing continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Kent Haruf's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2001
2

Listening For God, Vol. 4

Listening For God, Vol. 4 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kent Haruf have come to expect.

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2002

? Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Kent Haruf?

Kent Haruf is a bestselling author known for 3 book series containing over 8 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Plainsong Books, Publication Order of Standalone Novels, Publication Order of Anthologies. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.

What is the best Kent Haruf series to start with?

For readers new to Kent Haruf's work, the Publication Order of Plainsong Books series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 3 books. Begin with Plainsong to start from the very beginning.

How many books has Kent Haruf written?

Kent Haruf has written over 8 books across 3 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.

Should I read Kent Haruf books in order?

Yes, reading Kent Haruf's series in publication order is strongly recommended. Most series feature evolving character arcs, ongoing story threads, and references to earlier events that are most rewarding when experienced in sequence. Our complete reading order guides are listed above.

What genre does Kent Haruf write in?

Kent Haruf writes primarily in fiction. With 3 series across 8 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.

Are Kent Haruf's books standalone or must they be read as a series?

Most of Kent Haruf's books are part of ongoing series and deliver the most satisfying experience when read in order. However, several standalone novels and short story collections provide excellent entry points without requiring prior knowledge of other series.

What is Kent Haruf's most popular book?

Based on reader reviews and sales data, Kent Haruf's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Plainsong Books series. The first book, Plainsong, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.