In this first volume of the biography of Mark Twain, Albert Bigelow Paine provides readers with a comprehensive and engaging look at the life of one of America's most beloved authors. Paine delves into Twain's early years, his struggles with poverty and loss, and his rise to literary fame. Paine's writing style is both informative and entertaining, making this biography a captivating and enlightening read.

What sets this biography apart is Paine's access to Twain's personal correspondence and diaries, which adds depth and insight into the author's thoughts and feelings. Paine also deftly navigates the complex relationship between Twain's public persona and his private struggles, painting a nuanced portrait of a man who was both brilliant and flawed.

Overall, I highly recommend this biography to anyone interested in learning more about Mark Twain and the era in which he lived. Paine's thorough research and captivating storytelling make this a must-read for fans of Twain's work and American literary history. I look forward to diving into Volume 2 to continue the journey through Twain's remarkable life.

Book Description:
Until recently, this work has been considered the "go-to" bio of Mark Twain. Albert Bigelow Paine was an American author and biographer best known for his work with Mark Twain. This recording of Paine's exhaustive biography covers Twain's personal and literary life in detail, heretofore unapproached. - Summary by John Greenman and Wikipedia