Vardis Fisher

Vardis Alvero Fisher was an American author renowned for his historical novels set in the Old West and his ambitious literary projects. His most significant work, the 12-volume series "Testament of Man" (1943–1960), traced humanity's evolution from prehistoric times to modern civilization. The series garnered attention for its provocative exploration of religion, sexuality, and anthropological themes, often challenging conventional Judeo-Christian perspectives.

Fisher's writing combined meticulous historical research with bold philosophical inquiry, earning both acclaim and controversy. While his Western novels captured the rugged spirit of frontier life, his broader body of work reflected a deep engagement with human nature and societal development. His unflinching portrayals of complex themes established him as a distinctive voice in mid-20th-century American literature.
Testament of Man Books
# Title Year
1 Darkness and the Deep 1943
2 The Golden Rooms 1944
3 Intimations of Eve 1946
4 Adam and the Serpent 1947
5 The Divine Passion 1948
6 The Valley of Vision 1951
7 The Island of the Innocent 1952
8 Jesus Came Again 1956
9 Peace Like a River 1957
10 My Holy Satan 1960
11 Orphans in Gethsemane 1960
12 For Passion, For Heaven 1962
13 The Great Confession 1962
Vridar Hunter Books
# Title Year
1 In Tragic Life 1933
2 Passions Spin the Plot 1934
3 We Are Betrayed 1936
4 No Villain Need be 1936
Standalone Novels
# Title Year
1 Mountain Man 1920
2 Dark Bridwell 1931
3 Toilers of the Hills 1933
4 Children of God 1939
5 City of Illusion 1941
6 A Goat for Azazel 1956
7 Pemmican 1956
8 Tale Of Valor 1958
9 Suicide or Murder? 1962
10 The Mothers 1965
Non-Fiction Books
# Title Year
1 The Neurotic Nightingale 1935
2 The Idaho Encyclopedia 1939
3 The Caxton Printers in Idaho 1944
4 God or Caesar? 1953
5 Thomas Wolfe as I Knew Him and Other Essays 1963
6 Vardis Fisher's Boise 2019
Collections
# Title Year
1 Love and Death 1959