Complete March Family Trilogy   By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

Complete March Family Trilogy by William Dean Howells is a captivating and deeply poignant collection of novels that beautifully captures the essence of American life in the 19th century. Comprising of three interconnected stories, this trilogy presents an intricate and intricate portrayal of the March family and their journey through various trials and tribulations.

The first novel, "The March Family," sets the stage for the rest of the trilogy, introducing readers to the four March sisters - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy - and their loving, yet sometimes chaotic, household. Howells, with his impeccable storytelling skills, delves into the intricacies of each character's personality, presenting them as distinct individuals with their own dreams, desires, and shortcomings. As the sisters navigate through the trials and joys of growing up, readers witness their deep bond and unwavering support for one another, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their lives.

In the second installment, "March Mutuals," Howells explores the lives of the March sisters in their adult years, delving into their respective marriages and the challenges they face as they navigate the expectations and constraints of society. While Meg finds solace in her marriage and motherhood, Jo embarks on a journey of self-discovery and independence. Howells effortlessly weaves together themes of love, duty, and personal fulfillment, presenting a nuanced exploration of the choices women of that era had to make.

The final book in the trilogy, "The March Quintet," brings the March family saga to a gripping conclusion, introducing a new generation of Marches who must grapple with their own trials and tribulations. Howells expertly captures the changing times and the impact it has on the characters, painting a vivid picture of a society in transition. The narrative remains compelling as ever, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engrossed till the last page.

One of the strengths of this trilogy is Howells' ability to convey deep human emotions and complexities through his eloquent prose. His astute observations of the human psyche and his keen eye for detail make the characters come to life, allowing readers to not only sympathize with them but also learn from their triumphs and mistakes. Moreover, Howells skillfully intertwines historical events and societal issues of the time, giving readers a multifaceted glimpse into American history and culture.

Complete March Family Trilogy is a literary gem that showcases William Dean Howells' masterful storytelling and unmatched insight into the human condition. It is a must-read for both lovers of classic literature and those interested in the social dynamics of 19th-century America. Highly recommended.

First Page:

They first met in Boston, but the match was made in Europe, where they afterwards saw each other; whither, indeed, he followed her; and there the match was also broken off. Why it was broken off, and why it was renewed after a lapse of years, is part of quite a long love story, which I do not think myself qualified to rehearse, distrusting my fitness for a sustained or involved narration; though I am persuaded that a skillful romancer could turn the courtship of Basil and Isabel March to excellent account. Fortunately for me, however, in attempting to tell the reader of the wedding journey of a newly married couple, no longer very young, to be sure, but still fresh in the light of their love, I shall have nothing to do but to talk of some ordinary traits of American life as these appeared to them, to speak a little of well known and easily accessible places, to present now a bit of landscape and now a sketch of character... Continue reading book >>