William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American realist author and literary critic. He wrote his first novel, Their Wedding Journey, in 1871, but his literary reputation really took off with the realist novel A Modern Instance, published in 1882, which describes the decay of a marriage. His 1885 novel The Rise of Silas Lapham is perhaps his best known, describing the rise and fall of an American entrepreneur in the paint business. His social views were also strongly reflected in the novel...

William Dean Howells was an American novelist, literary critic, and playwright, known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was also an influential literary critic and editor.In "The Flight of Pony Baker," Howells likely tells the story of Pony Baker, a young boy growing up in a rural or small-town setting. The novella may follow Pony's adventures and misadventures as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and comes ...

"A Boy's Town" is a coming-of-age story set in a small Midwestern town in the late 19th century. The novel follows the life of Bartley Hubbard, a young boy who grows up in the town and experiences the trials and tribulations of adolescence.As Bartley navigates the challenges of boyhood, he forms close friendships with other boys in the town and engages in various adventures and escapades. Together, they explore the woods, play games, and get into mischief, all while learning important life...

The story revolves around Lemuel Barker, a young man who is placed under the guidance and mentorship of a minister. Lemuel becomes the minister's apprentice and learns from his experiences, trials, and moral teachings. The novel explores themes of moral development, the pursuit of one's calling, and the challenges of finding one's place in society.William Dean Howells was known for his realistic portrayals of American life and his exploration of social and moral themes. "The Minister's Cha...

William Dean Howells's portrait of Oliver Wendell Holmes captures a man who seems inseparable from Boston and yet larger than the city's Brahmin world. Holmes emerges as witty, cultivated, and patrician, a writer shaped by elite social traditions but made memorable by warmth, curiosity, and a humor that could turn from literary debate to the marvels of daily life. Through vivid recollections of conversations in his Beacon Street home, at Cambridge gatherings, and at the Saturday Club, Howe...

Confessions is the name of an autobiographical work, consisting of 13 books, by St. Augustine of Hippo, written in Latin between AD 397 and 400. Modern English translations of it are sometimes published under the title The Confessions of St. Augustine in order to distinguish the book from other books with similar titles. Its original title was Confessions in Thirteen Books, and it was composed to be read out loud with each book being a complete unit. This work outlines St. Augustine's sinf...

Mrs. Edward Roberts: "Now, my dear, Amy and I will get there early, so as to make up for your coming a little late, but you must be there for the last half, at least. I would excuse you altogether if I could, for I know you must be dead tired, up all night, that way, on the train, but Mrs. Miller is one of those people who never can listen to reason, and she would take deadly offence if you missed her musicale, and wouldn't forgive us the longest day she lived. So you see?" Mrs. Roberts ad...

"A Little Swiss Sojourn" by William Dean Howells is a delightful travel narrative that captures the essence of Switzerland through the eyes of an American traveler. The book reflects Howells' keen observations and appreciation for the picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and the unique culture of the Swiss people. His writing is imbued with a sense of wonder and curiosity, as he explores the natural beauty and the serene lifestyle that Switzerland offers, making it a captivating read...

From his place on the floor of the Hemenway Gymnasium Mr. Elbridge G. Mavering looked on at the Class Day gaiety with the advantage which his stature, gave him over most people there. Hundreds of these were pretty girls, in a great variety of charming costumes, such as the eclecticism of modern fashion permits, and all sorts of ingenious compro-mises between walking dress and ball dress. It struck him that the young men on whose arms they hung, in promenading around the long oval within th...

In "Buying a Horse," William Dean Howells masterfully explores the nuances of American society in the late 19th century through a seemingly simple narrative about the purchase of a horse. With a keen eye for detail and a style characterized by realism and wit, Howells delves into themes of social class, economic status, and human relationships. The novel reflects the author's astute observations of character and setting while offering a humorous critique of the materialism rampant in his c...

"My Mark Twain" is a captivating exploration of the life and character of the iconic American author, Mark Twain, as seen through the eyes of his close friend and fellow writer, William Dean Howells. In this insightful work, Howells shares personal anecdotes and reflections that illuminate Twain's unique personality, his humor, and his profound impact on American literature. The narrative captures the essence of Twain's genius while also revealing the complexities of his character, making ...

The daughter of the storage -- A presentiment -- Captain Dunlevy's last trip -- The return to favor -- Somebody's mother -- The face at the window -- An experience -- The boarders -- Breakfast is my best meal -- The mother-bird -- The amigo -- Black Cross farm -- The critical book-store -- A feast of reason -- City and country in the fall -- Table talk -- The escapade of a grandfather -- Self-sacrifice: a farce-tragedy -- The night before Christmas.