Editing Charles Gaines (section)

== Literary career ==

=== Stay Hungry ===

Gaines published the novel ''Stay Hungry'' in 1972.

The book explored bodybuilding and personal ambition.

It became a finalist for the National Book Award.

=== Film adaptation ===

''Stay Hungry'' was adapted into a film released in 1976.

The film was directed by Bob Rafelson and starred Jeff Bridges, Sally Field and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Gaines worked on the screenplay.

The film was among Schwarzenegger's early acting appearances.

=== Pumping Iron ===

In 1974, Gaines collaborated with photographer George Butler on ''Pumping Iron: The Art and Sport of Bodybuilding''.

The book documented competitive bodybuilding during the sport's emergence into mainstream popular culture.

=== Documentary ===

The book inspired the 1977 documentary ''Pumping Iron''.

Gaines contributed to the film's writing and narration.

The documentary featured Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno.

It became an influential work in the popularisation of bodybuilding.[3]

=== Other books ===

Gaines published approximately 25 books during his career.

His works included:

* ''Stay Hungry'' (1972)
* ''Pumping Iron: The Art and Sport of Bodybuilding'' (1974, with George Butler)
* ''Dangler''
* ''Survival Games''
* ''The Next Valley Over''
* ''Waters Far and Near''
* ''A Family Place''

His writing frequently concerned outdoor adventure, sporting culture and the natural world.