Some Great American Books

A guidebook written in the early 20th century that aims to introduce readers to notable American literature. The book serves as a curated selection of significant works, intended to foster a deeper understanding of American literary heritage by recommending a series of important texts for consecutive reading. In this work, Sharp discusses a range of American authors and their key contributions to literature, including Washington Irving's ''The Sketch Book,'' James Fenimore Cooper's ''The Last of the Mohicans,'' and Nathaniel Hawthorne's ''The Scarlet Letter,'' among others. He emphasizes the importance of contextualizing literature within its historical period and encourages readers to engage actively with texts, appreciating their stylistic nuances and thematic depth. By providing recommendations and insights into each work, Sharp invites readers to embark on a journey through the diverse landscape of American literature, highlighting the cultural significance and emotional resonance of the selected books.