Child and Country A Book of the Younger Generation   By: Will Levington Comfort (1878-1932)

Child and Country: A Book of the Younger Generation by Will Levington Comfort is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the experiences and challenges faced by the youth of the early 20th century.

The book delves deep into the various aspects of childhood, adolescence, and the transition into adulthood, offering an insightful glimpse into the minds of the younger generation during a time of significant societal change. Comfort's writing is powerful and engaging, capturing the essence of youth and the complexities they encounter.

One of the standout features of this book is Comfort's ability to convey the raw emotions and internal struggles of the young characters. He effortlessly navigates through themes of identity, love, loss, and the quest for independence. Through his vivid descriptions and introspective narratives, Comfort captures the essence of these experiences, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their journeys on a profound level.

Another notable aspect of Child and Country is Comfort's exploration of the societal context in which the younger generation is raised. He unravels the influence of family, education, and social norms on their development, all while highlighting the inherent tension between conformity and individuality. This multi-faceted approach provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by young people in their quest for self-discovery and growth.

The prose in this book is simply exquisite. Comfort's use of language and imagery is evocative and poetic, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. His attention to detail and ability to create vivid scenes transports readers to the time and place where the characters' lives unfold. Furthermore, his well-crafted dialogues contribute to the authenticity and relatability of the characters' interactions.

While Child and Country is undeniably a literary masterpiece, it is worth noting that some readers may find the narrative structure challenging. Comfort employs a non-linear approach, which can occasionally be disorienting. Nevertheless, this choice also adds depth and complexity to the storytelling, enhancing the overall reading experience for those willing to embrace it.

In conclusion, Child and Country: A Book of the Younger Generation is a captivating and insightful work that offers a profound exploration of youth in the early 20th century. Will Levington Comfort's exceptional writing, profound themes, and engaging characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human experience and the challenges faced by the younger generation.

First Page:

... To day the first glimpse of this manuscript as a whole. It was all detached pieces before, done over a period of many months, with many intervening tasks, the main idea slightly drifting from time to time.... The purpose on setting out, was to relate the adventure of home making in the country, with its incidents of masonry, child and rose culture, and shore conservation. It was not to tell others how to build a house or plant a garden, or how to conduct one's life on a shore acre or two. Not at this late day. I was impelled rather to relate how we found plenty with a little; how we entered upon a new dimension of health and length of days; and from the safe distance of the desk, I wanted to laugh over a city man's adventures with drains and east winds, country people and the meshes of possession... Continue reading book >>