Main-Travelled Roads

Main-Travelled Roads is a collection of short stories by Hamlin Garland, first published in 1891 and expanded in 1922. Set in the 'Middle Border' of the American Midwest, the stories depict the struggles of rural life, particularly the hardships faced by farmers. Through narratives like 'Under the Lion's Paw' and 'Up the Coolly,' Garland highlights the economic and social conditions of agrarian communities, offering a poignant tribute to his own parents and the resilience of those living in poverty. The book challenges the romanticized view of the American prairie, presenting a more realistic portrayal of its beauty and desolation.