On Howells: The Best from American Literature : Book Review

Edwin Harrison Cady's "On Howells" offers a captivating exploration of the life and literary contributions of American author William Dean Howells. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, Cady paints a vivid portrait of Howells as a key figure in the American literary scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Cady's book is well-organized, allowing readers to follow Howells' literary career. He takes a chronological approach, delving into Howells' novels, short stories, and critical essays. By highlighting key themes and influences, Cady offers a deeper understanding of Howells' literary style and the cultural context in which he wrote. The writing style strikes a balance between providing detailed analysis and keeping the book accessible to both academics and general readers.

The strength of "On Howells" lies in Cady's exploration of Howells' role as a literary critic. Cady pays careful attention to Howells' critical essays, revealing his views on various literary movements and authors of his time. This sheds light on Howells' influence as an opinion leader and his significant impact in shaping American literary tastes and values.

Cady's research is evident throughout the book, drawing from a wide range of sources including diaries, letters, and contemporary reviews. This comprehensive approach allows readers to gain a deep understanding of Howells' life and literary contributions, while also providing historical context.

Overall, "On Howells" is a highly informative and engaging biography. Cady's insightful analysis, meticulous research, and accessible writing style make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in American literature or the development of realism as a literary movement. It offers new insights and interpretations that add depth to our understanding of this influential American author.

What are readers saying?

Edwin Harrison Cady's book "On Howells" has garnered a range of opinions from readers. The book delves into the life and works of American author William Dean Howells, providing a thorough analysis that appeals to literature enthusiasts. Here is a summary of the reviews:

1. Many readers found "On Howells" to be a well-researched and comprehensive examination of Howells' life and writings. They appreciated Cady's in-depth analysis and his ability to capture the essence of Howells' literary contributions. These reviewers praised the book's scholarly approach and considered it essential for anyone interested in American literature.

2. On the other hand, some readers thought the book was dense and overly academic. They found Cady's writing style to be dry and inaccessible, making it challenging to fully engage with the subject matter. These reviewers struggled to maintain interest throughout the book and were disappointed by the lack of a more engaging narrative.

3. A few readers appreciated Cady's portrayal of Howells as a progressive thinker and social critic. They found the author's exploration of Howells' political and social views to be thought-provoking and relevant even in today's context. These reviewers admired Cady's ability to contextualize Howells' writing within the broader socio-political landscape of his time.

4. Some readers expressed their disappointment with the absence of visual aids or illustrations in the book. They believed that including visual references would have added depth and aided in understanding the discussed works and their historical context. These readers felt that the lack of visual elements made the reading experience less immersive.

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