This carefully edited collection of William Dean Howells has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American realist author, literary critic, and playwright. Nicknamed "The Dean of American Letters", he was particularly known for his tenure as editor of the Atlantic Monthly as well as his own prolific writings, including the Christmas story "Christmas Every Day", and the novels The Rise of Silas Lapham and A Traveler from Altruria. Howells is known to be the father of American realism, and a denouncer of the sentimental novel. He was the first American author to bring a realist aesthetic to the literature of the United States. His stories of Boston upper crust life set in the 1850s are highly regarded among scholars of American fiction. Table of Contents: Introduction William Dean Howells by Charles Dudley Warner Novels A Forgone Conclusion A Chance Acquaintance A Modern Instance A Pair of Patient Lovers A Traveler from Altruria An Open-Eyed Conspiracy Annie Kilburn April Hopes Dr. Breen's Practice Fennel and Rue Indian Summer Questionable Shapes Ragged Lady The Coast of Bohemia The Kentons The Lady of Aroostook The Landlord at Lion's Head The Leatherwood God The Minister's Charge The Quality of Mercy The Rise of Silas Lapham The Story of a Play Through the Eye of the Needle The Flight of Pony Baker The March Family Trilogy: Their Wedding Journey A Hazard of New Fortunes Their Silver Wedding Journey Reminiscences and Autobiography A Boy's Town Years of My Youth

The Complete Works of William Dean Howells (Illustrated) offers a comprehensive collection of the works of William Dean Howells, a prominent American realist author. Known for his depiction of ordinary American life, Howells' writing style is characterized by its detailed realism and insightful social commentary. This collection includes a variety of genres such as novels, short stories, plays, and essays, showcasing Howells' versatility as a writer. Readers can expect to be immersed in vivid narratives that capture the essence of 19th-century America. William Dean Howells, a close friend of Mark Twain and a leading figure in the realist literary movement, drew inspiration for his works from his experiences as a journalist and editor. His commitment to portraying the everyday struggles and joys of common people sets him apart as a notable voice in American literature. This collection is highly recommended for readers interested in exploring the complexities of American society and culture through the lens of a skilled observer. The Complete Works of William Dean Howells provides a unique perspective on the realities of American life during the late 19th century and continues to resonate with readers today.

E. M. Delafield's 'The Provincial Lady Series' is a quintessential portrayal of the life of an English middle-class woman in the early 20th century. Written in the form of a diary, the series consists of five novels that elegantly capture the challenges, humor, and social norms of the time. Delafield's witty and satirical style, combined with her sharp observations of the minutiae of daily life, make these novels both entertaining and insightful. The series stands as a valuable piece of literature that offers a window into the domestic and social dynamics of the era. Readers will find themselves engrossed in the Provincial Lady's world, laughing at her mishaps and sympathizing with her frustrations. E. M. Delafield, herself a middle-class woman living in England during the early 20th century, drew inspiration from her own experiences to create this beloved series. Her keen insight into the social conventions and gender roles of the time adds depth and authenticity to the Provincial Lady's narrative. I highly recommend 'The Provincial Lady Series' to readers interested in classic literature, women's writing, and social history. Delafield's skillful storytelling and perceptive commentary make this collection a must-read for anyone looking to explore the nuances of everyday life in the early 20th century.