Kent Curtis was born on October 10, 1890, in Kansas, to Charles and Grace Curtis. He came from a family with a rich history, as his great-grandfather was the prominent Ohio businessman Marvin Kent. Kent spent his childhood in Wichita, Kansas, and later moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he attended school.
Despite his early fascination with writing, Kent initially pursued a different path. He briefly studied at Amherst College before deciding to follow his passion for aviation. He went on to train at the University of Illinois' Military Aeronautics School, where he honed his skills as a pilot.
When World War I broke out, Kent Curtis eagerly enlisted in the Royal Air Force. His experiences during the war would later serve as the inspiration for his groundbreaking historical novel, The Tired Captains. The book, based on his time in the RAF, garnered critical acclaim and established Kent as a rising literary talent.
Following the success of The Tired Captains, Kent went on to publish several more novels, including Cruises in the Sun, Drumbeater's Island, and The Last Wanigan. His diverse body of work showcased his versatility as a writer and solidified his reputation as a skilled storyteller.
Outside of his writing career, Kent Curtis had a complex personal life. He was the stepbrother of the famous poet Hart Crane, as a result of his father's marriage to Crane's divorced mother. Despite the challenges he faced in his personal life, Kent remained dedicated to his craft and continued to produce acclaimed works throughout his career.
One of Kent's most notable achievements was earning the praise of renowned author F. Scott Fitzgerald for his book, The Blushing Camel. This recognition from a literary giant further solidified Kent's place in the literary world and served as a testament to his talent and skill as a writer.
Throughout his life, Kent Curtis remained committed to his writing and continued to inspire readers with his captivating storytelling. His legacy as a novelist and aviator continues to endure, cementing his place in literary history.