The Wrong Twin   By: Harry Leon Wilson (1867-1939)

The Wrong Twin by Harry Leon Wilson is a hilarious and captivating novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of mistaken identities and comedic mishaps. Set in the early 20th century, the story revolves around the lives of identical twins, Claude and Sherman Blaisdell.

From the very beginning, the author skillfully sets up the premise of the story, introducing the readers to the contrasting personalities of the two brothers. While Claude is portrayed as a responsible and hardworking individual, Sherman is depicted as a carefree and mischievous troublemaker. This stark contrast between the brothers serves as the catalyst for the humorous events that follow.

The plot kicks into high gear when Claude, the dependable twin, receives a sudden telegraph informing him of his brother's imprisonment for stealing a motorcycle. Determined to help his sibling, Claude devises a plan to switch places with Sherman, hoping to clear his name. However, as expected, chaos ensues when the mistaken identity leads Claude down an unexpected path, entangling him in a world of gangsters, romance, and even a potential inheritance scam.

Throughout the book, Wilson's writing style is nothing short of masterful, effortlessly blending witty dialogue, well-crafted characters, and a fast-paced narrative. The comedic timing is impeccable, and the author's ability to create hilarious situations out of misunderstandings and mistaken identities truly shines.

One of the standout aspects of The Wrong Twin is Wilson's ability to create memorable characters. Each individual, from the charming yet conniving detective Hotchkiss to the dynamic duo of Rossmore and Gander, adds depth to the story and keeps the readers engaged. Claude's transformation from a responsible twin to a clueless troublemaker is both endearing and entertaining, and his interactions with the supporting cast make for some laugh-out-loud moments.

Furthermore, the author expertly weaves romance into the narrative, adding another layer of complexity to the story. The blossoming relationship between Claude and the captivating Helen Cortlandt adds a touch of warmth and emotion that balances out the comedic elements of the novel.

While The Wrong Twin is primarily a comedic novel, it also delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. Through the misadventures of Claude and Sherman, Wilson raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of personal responsibility and the impact our choices have on the lives of others.

In conclusion, The Wrong Twin is an absolute delight to read. Wilson's clever writing, colorful characters, and a plot packed with laugh-out-loud moments make this book a must-read for fans of comedic fiction. Whether you're in need of a good laugh or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, The Wrong Twin is a perfect choice that will keep you entertained until the very last page.

First Page:

This was in the days of an earlier Newbern, when the twins were four and Winona Penniman began to be their troubled mentor troubled lest they should not grow up to be refined persons; a day when Dave Cowan, the widely travelled printer, could rightly deride its citizenry as small towners; a day when the Whipples were Newbern's sole noblesse and the Cowan twins not yet torn asunder... Continue reading book >>