Subject
Boston (Mass.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Jacques Futrelle
The problem of Cell 13
"The Problem of Cell 13" by Jacques Futrelle is a short story first published in 1905. The tale features Augustus S. F. X. Van Dusen, "The Thinking Machine," who claims nothing is impossible when the human mind is properly applied. To prove his theory, he accepts an extraordinary challenge: escape from a prison cell within one week. This acclaimed mystery has been adapted multiple times for television, radio, and stage, and appears in numerous collections of greatest detective stories.
Edward Bellamy
Looking Backward, 2000 to 1887
"Looking Backward, 2000 to 1887" by Edward Bellamy is a utopian science fiction novel published in 1888. When Julian West falls into a hypnotic sleep in 1887 Boston, he awakens 113 years later to find America transformed into a socialist utopia. Through conversations with his guide, Doctor Leete, West discovers a radically reimagined society where industry is nationalized, goods are equally distributed, and citizens retire at 45. This bestselling novel sparked a political mass movement and inspired over 162 discussion clubs across America.
William Dean Howells
The Rise of Silas Lapham
"The Rise of Silas Lapham" by William Dean Howells is a realist novel published in 1885. The story follows self-made businessman Silas Lapham, who builds a fortune in the paint industry but struggles to gain acceptance in Boston's aristocratic society. As the Laphams pursue social status through their daughters' prospects, a complicated romantic triangle emerges when Tom Corey, from an old-money family, takes interest in the family. Financial pressures mount while moral dilemmas test Silas's integrity, forcing him to choose between wealth and principle.
William Dean Howells
April Hopes
"April Hopes" by William Dean Howells is a novel written in the late 19th century, during a time when American society was grappling with changes brought on by modernity and shifting social norms. The story centers around Elbridge G. Mavering, a man observing the festive Class Day at Harvard University, where he reflects on the past and meets various characters that embody the complexities of gender dynamics, youth, and social expectations. Through the interactions of Mavering with notable individuals, such as Mrs. Pasmer and her daughter Alice, the narrative explores themes of social acceptance, romance, and the differences in societal roles between men and women. At the start of the novel, the lively atmosphere of the Class Day is vividly set in the Hemenway Gymnasium, filled with young couples enjoying the celebrations. Mavering, having been introduced to Mrs. Pasmer, finds himself in discussions about the changing roles of women and men's expectations in society. Their dialogue reflects the evolving views on chivalry and attention that young women supposedly receive from men in contemporary society. As Mavering grapples with these ideas, he observes a younger generation of students and their accompanying social practices, hinting at the generational transitions in values and behaviors. The opening establishes a rich social tapestry, setting the stage for deeper explorations of character relationships and the implications of society's rapid transformations.
Henry James
The Europeans
"The Europeans" by Henry James is a novel published in 1878. Two sophisticated European siblings arrive in puritanical New England to meet their distant American cousins. Eugenia seeks a wealthy husband after her morganatic marriage faces dissolution, while her brother Felix embraces their relatives' simpler life. Cultural clash and romantic entanglements unfold as European worldliness meets New England propriety. Felix falls for his cousin Gertrude, but misunderstandings, white lies, and differing values complicate everyone's hopes for happiness across the Atlantic divide.
William Dean Howells
The Minister's Charge; Or, The Apprenticeship of Lemuel Barker
“The Minister's Charge; Or, The Apprenticeship of Lemuel Barker” by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story follows the relationship between a minister, David Sewell, and a young, aspiring poet named Lemuel Barker living in rural Willoughby Pastures. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, artistic failure, and the responsibilities that come with mentorship. The opening of the novel provides a glimpse into Sewell's life as he reflects on his encounters with Lemuel and the disappointment he feels about the boy's unrealistic aspirations in poetry. After initially offering praise to the young poet, Sewell grapples with guilt over his previous encouragement as he receives a letter from Lemuel seeking assistance in publishing his work. The minister's internal conflict grows throughout the opening chapters, establishing the deep moral quandary he faces when he finally meets Lemuel again in Boston. Sewell's hesitance is met with Lemuel's naïveté, as he remains hopeful despite the odds against him, contrasting the harsh realities of rural life with the aspirations of artistic ambition. This sets the tone for a thoughtful exploration of sincerity, disappointment, and the complexities of kindness versus honesty.
Willa Cather
Alexander's Bridge
"Alexander's Bridge" by Willa Cather is a novel first published in 1912. Bartley Alexander is a world-renowned bridge builder caught in a midlife crisis. Though married to Winifred in Boston, he rekindles a romance with former lover Hilda Burgoyne in London. Torn between two worlds, Bartley struggles with guilt and honor as his double life unravels. Meanwhile, a bridge project in Canada demands his attention, setting the stage for a devastating convergence of personal and professional crises.
Henry James
The Bostonians, Vol. I (of II)
"The Bostonians, Vol. I (of II)" by Henry James is a novel first published in 1885–1886. This tragicomedy centers on a battle for the heart and mind of Verena Tarrant, a young feminist speaker. Conservative Mississippi lawyer Basil Ransom and his cousin Olive Chancellor, a passionate Boston feminist, compete for Verena's allegiance. As Olive grooms Verena for a career in women's liberation, Basil pursues her with his own vision of a woman's proper place. The novel explores political tensions and personal desires in post-Civil War America.
Edward Bellamy
Looking Backward: 2000-1887
"Looking Backward: 2000-1887" by Edward Bellamy is a utopian science fiction novel published in 1888. The story follows Julian West, a young American who falls into a deep sleep in 1887 and awakens 113 years later to find the United States transformed into a socialist utopia. Through conversations with his guide, Doctor Leete, West discovers a radically reimagined society where industry is nationalized, goods are equally distributed, and citizens enjoy unprecedented leisure and prosperity. The novel sparked a political mass movement and inspired over 162 discussion clubs across America.
Basil King
The Happy Isles
"The Happy Isles" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with a focus on a young boy who, at just eight months old, has experienced a life filled with comfort, joy, and love from his caregivers. As the narrative unfolds, it explores the complexities of childhood and the stark contrast between joy and suffering as the boy becomes embroiled in a harrowing life filled with care and neglect. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to a vibrant nursery world through the eyes of an eight-month-old baby, who perceives his surroundings with wonder and curiosity, fully unaware of the challenges that life will soon bring. Shifting perspective, the narrative also delves into the lives of his caregivers, including Miss Nash, a devoted nursemaid who struggles with her emotions and duties. Soon, the idyllic life of the boy is abruptly changed by a series of incidents that lead to profound transformations in his life. The opening establishes a strong emotional foundation that hints at the trials and tribulations that will shape the boy’s journey, making it a compelling start for readers interested in stories about resilience and the complexities of human relationships.
Lucia True Ames Mead
Memoirs of a millionaire
"Memoirs of a Millionaire" by Lucia True Ames Mead is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Mildred Brewster, a young woman who unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune, which brings both excitement and a set of new responsibilities. As Mildred navigates her newfound wealth, she grapples with societal expectations and her own ideals about philanthropy and citizenship in America. The opening portion introduces Mildred amid an intimate evening gathering, highlighting her strong character against the backdrop of wealthy yet apathetic young men discussing politics and societal issues. This dynamic sets the stage for a clash of values, particularly when Mildred boldly confronts the indifference of her peers, revealing her passionate convictions about civic duty and responsibility. As Mildred prepares to handle her inheritance, she is portrayed as a person combating societal norms with a desire to use her wealth for the greater good, a theme that foreshadows her philanthropic ambitions while also hinting at the challenges she will face in balancing personal ideals with social realities.
Alex. McVeigh Miller
Little Nobody
"Little Nobody" by Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a mysterious young girl, known simply as "Little Nobody," and the complicated lives of the adults who surround her, including a Northern journalist named Eliot Van Zandt, and a retired actress, Madame Lorraine, who seems to own her. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans during a time of social intricacies and hidden identities, the novel explores themes of social status, innocence, and the harsh realities of adult malice. At the start of the novel, we meet Eliot Van Zandt, a journalist who arrives in New Orleans and is instantly captivated by the city's charm. Soon, he encounters Madame Lorraine, who invites him into her world that includes a intriguing young girl, the titular Little Nobody. Their first encounter reveals that Little Nobody has a complex and tumultuous life, living under the fickle care of Madame Lorraine while navigating her own desires for freedom and identity. The opening chapters hint at a tumultuous backstory of jealousy, rivalry, and a hidden life, promising a rich exploration of the relationships and power dynamics between the characters as the narrative unfolds.
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