Subject
Illinois -- Social life and customs -- Fiction Books
Best books
Earl H. (Earl Howell) Reed
Tales of a Vanishing River
"Tales of a Vanishing River" by Earl H. Reed is a collection of sketches and stories written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life along the Kankakee River, capturing both its natural beauty and the changes brought about by human activity. Through vivid descriptions and reflections, it delves into historical accounts involving early explorers and the impact of settlement on the land and its inhabitants. The opening of the book presents a poetic depiction of the Kankakee River's early environment, filled with rich wildlife, lush vegetation, and the presence of Native American tribes. Reed introduces the river as a once-thriving ecosystem that served as a significant waterway for both wildlife and early explorers like LaSalle. He reflects on the transformation of the region, lamenting the loss of its natural state due to human encroachment and development. The narrative conveys a deep sense of nostalgia, hinting at the river's past splendor while foretelling the consequences of its alteration through progress, setting the tone for the stories that follow.
Max McConn
Mollie's Substitute Husband
"Mollie's Substitute Husband" by Max McConn is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on John Merriam, a young and somewhat innocent high school principal from Riceville, Illinois, who finds himself in a whirlwind of intrigue and romance in Chicago. Following a chance encounter with his former student and the "prettiest girl," Mollie June, now married to Senator George Norman, Merriam becomes embroiled in a plot that could significantly impact the political landscape and his own heart. The opening portion of the novel introduces John Merriam's unexpected escapade in a Chicago cabaret, where he relishes a brief escape from his mundane life in Riceville. Merriam's encounter with Mollie June, who is now married, stirs a mixture of nostalgia and longing within him. As he reminisces about their past interactions in high school, the narrative hints at a complex web of relationships and political maneuvering that Merriam will navigate. The stage is set for an adventure that intertwines personal desires with social reforms, as Merriam becomes involved in a plot orchestrated by political reformers aiming to influence the senator's decision on an important ordinance. This vivid setup creates an intriguing foundation, promising themes of love, ambition, and the quest for justice.
Recently surfaced classics