Scope and Contents This collection includes three letters from Kenneth Hansen to Chester Himes and another to Roslyn Targ, Himes' literary agent. The letters chiefly refer to a copy of Himes' book Pinktoes, which accompanies the letters. As Hansen describes, the book was read by inmates, possibly in San Quentin State Prison, until it was flagged by prison personnel as contraband and removed, somehow winding up in possession of Hansen who had taught at the prison. The book,...

Scope and Contents The papers of African American novelist and short story writer Chester B. Himes are comprised of correspondence; financial, legal and other personal records; professional records including literary contracts and royalty statements; photographs; manuscripts and published appearances of Himes' writings; and collected articles and reviews about Himes. Of note is the extensive correspondence between Himes and various individuals, including writers, publishers, literary agents, friends, fans,...

Scope and Contents The papers of Lesley Himes document her life with African American novelist and short story writer Chester Himes as expatriates living in Spain, as well as her life following his passing in 1984. The collection includes correspondence with biographers, writers, literary agents, fans of Chester Himes's work, film producers, family, and friends. Photographs of Chester and Lesley Himes, along with friends and associates, are present as loose photographs in two photograph albums. Additional...