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The Life of Bret Harte With Some Account of the California Pioneers   By:

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The Life of Bret Harte With Some Account of the California Pioneers by Henry Childs Merwin is an engaging and meticulously researched biography that delves into the life of one of America's most renowned writers from the late 19th century. Merwin's comprehensive account takes us on a journey through the fascinating life and career of Bret Harte, shedding light not only on his literary achievements but also on his personal experiences as a California pioneer.

One of the strengths of Merwin's work is his ability to seamlessly merge Harte's life with the historical context of California during the Gold Rush era. By painting a vivid picture of the landscape, society, and challenges of that time, the author enables readers to better understand the influences that shaped Harte's writings. Merwin also incorporates a wealth of anecdotes and testimonies from Harte's contemporaries, which further enrich the narrative and provide valuable insights into the author's character and his place within the literary world.

Merwin's attention to detail is truly commendable throughout the book. He leaves no stone unturned in his exploration of Harte's life, from the author's childhood in New York to his struggles and successes in California. The research is extensive, evident in the copious footnotes and references that accompany the text. This dedication to accuracy and thoroughness makes The Life of Bret Harte not only an enjoyable read but also a reliable source of information for those interested in understanding the life and work of this literary luminary.

Moreover, Merwin's writing style is engaging and accessible, preventing the book from feeling like a dry academic tome. He skillfully balances the nonfiction aspects of the biography with storytelling elements, ensuring that the reader remains captivated throughout. The anecdotes and descriptions evoke a sense of time and place, transporting us back to the vibrant and often wild world of mid-19th century California.

If there is one criticism that can be leveled against this biography, it is perhaps the occasional digression into tangential topics. While these diversions do provide interesting historical background, they can at times interrupt the flow of the main narrative. Nevertheless, this minor flaw does not detract significantly from the overall quality of the book.

In conclusion, Henry Childs Merwin's The Life of Bret Harte With Some Account of the California Pioneers is a well-researched and captivating biography that offers an in-depth look into the life and times of an influential American writer. Merwin's expert storytelling and meticulous attention to detail make this book a must-read for anyone interested in Harte's literary contributions and the history of the California Gold Rush.

First Page:

THE LIFE OF BRET HARTE

[Illustration: Bret Harte]

The Gale Library of Lives and Letters American Writers Series

THE LIFE OF BRET HARTE

WITH SOME ACCOUNT OF THE CALIFORNIA PIONEERS

BY HENRY CHILDS MERWIN

WITH PORTRAITS AND OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS

BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY The Riverside Press Cambridge 1911

REPUBLISHED BY GALE RESEARCH COMPANY, BOOK TOWER, DETROIT, 1967

COPYRIGHT, 1911, BY HENRY CHILDS MERWIN

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Published September 1911

Library of Congress Card Number: 67 23887

TO Anne Amory Merwin THIS BOOK IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED

PREFACE

It is a pleasure for the Author of this book to record his indebtedness to others in preparing it. Mrs. T. Edgar Pemberton, and Messrs. C. Arthur Pearson, Limited, the publishers of Pemberton's Life of Bret Harte, have kindly consented to the quotation from that interesting book of several letters by Mr. Harte that throw much light upon his character. Similar permission was given by Mr. Howells and his publishers, the Messrs. Harper and Brothers, to make use of Mr. Howells' account of Bret Harte's visit to him at Cambridge; and of this permission the Author has availed himself with a freedom which the Reader at least will not regret... Continue reading book >>




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