In the fall of 1920, Sinclair Lewis began a novel set in a fast-growing city with the heart and mind of a small town. For the center of his cutting satire of American business he created the bustling, shallow, and myopic George F. Babbitt, the epitome of middle-class mediocrity. The novel cemented Lewis's prominence as a social commentator. Babbitt basks in his pedestrian success and the popularity it has brought him. He demands high moral standards from those around him while flirting with women, and he yearns to have rich friends while shunning those less fortunate than he. But Babbitt's secure complacency is shattered when his best friend is sent to prison, and he struggles to find meaning in his hollow life. He revolts, but finds that his former routine is not so easily thrown over.
Sinclair Lewis Books
This Nobel Prize laureate is celebrated for his vigorous and graphic art of description and his ability to create new character types with wit and humor. His works offer insightful and critical views of American capitalism and materialism between the wars. He is also respected for his strong characterizations of modern working women. His approach to writing has been described as a 'red-haired tornado from the Minnesota wilds,' reflecting his energetic and vivid style.







Storm in the West
- 216 pages
- 8 hours of reading
The Innocents; A Story for Lovers
- 104 pages
- 4 hours of reading
The Innocents; A Story for Lovers is a significant literary work that has stood the test of time. It has been carefully preserved and republished in a modern format, ensuring clarity and readability. This edition features a complete reformatting and retyping, moving away from scanned copies, making it accessible for both current and future readers. The effort to maintain its relevance highlights its importance in human history.
Our Mr. Wrenn - The Romantic Adventures of a Gentle Man
- 342 pages
- 12 hours of reading
The novel features Mr. Wrenn, a novelty company employee who embarks on a journey after inheriting a fortune. Celebrated for its whimsicality, the story serves as a refreshing antidote to the monotony of modern life. As Wrenn travels, he navigates romantic adventures that explore themes of identity and self-discovery. This 1914 work, the first by Sinclair Lewis published under his own name, gained immediate acclaim and is now republished in a modern, affordable edition, complete with a biography of the author.
The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian text, preserving its cultural significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. This edition reflects a commitment to protecting and promoting classic literature, ensuring that it remains accessible in a high-quality format that honors the original work.
Babbit
- 408 pages
- 15 hours of reading
The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving the original text despite potential imperfections like marks and notations. It emphasizes cultural significance and the commitment to protect and promote literature by offering high-quality, affordable modern editions that remain true to the original.
Set in the early 20th century, this novel follows the life of Mr. Wrenn, a mild-mannered and romantic man navigating the complexities of urban life. His journey is marked by whimsical adventures and encounters that challenge his gentle nature. Through Wrenn's experiences, Sinclair Lewis explores themes of individuality, societal expectations, and the search for love in a rapidly changing world. This work not only showcases Lewis's early literary talent but also sets the stage for his later, more renowned writings.
Work of Art
- 308 pages
- 11 hours of reading
The narrative centers on Myron Weagle, a hotel manager determined to achieve success in the hospitality industry. Through his journey, the story delves into the complexities of ambition and the American Dream, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and ethical dilemmas faced in the pursuit of one's goals. Sinclair Lewis skillfully examines the competitive landscape and the personal sacrifices required to attain success.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, this novel explores the complexities of life through a comedic lens. It delves into the struggles and aspirations of its characters as they navigate societal expectations and personal dilemmas. Sinclair Lewis uses humor to highlight the absurdities of human behavior while addressing serious themes such as ambition, disillusionment, and the pursuit of happiness. The narrative combines wit with poignant observations, offering a reflective commentary on the seriousness underlying everyday life.
Set in the early 20th century, the story follows George F. Babbitt, a middle-aged real estate partner in the fictional town of Zenith, who embodies the ideal of the American Dream. Despite his success and family life, Babbitt grapples with feelings of discontent and a growing awareness of the broader social and economic realities beyond his insular existence. Sinclair Lewis' satire critiques the emptiness of middle-class life, making the novel a poignant exploration of a man's midlife crisis and societal values. This edition features an introduction by Hugh Walpole.