This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. An American Tragedy

   

   This classic novel explores the dark side of the American Dream through the story of a young man who, despite his humble beginnings, aspires to climb the social ladder. He becomes involved with two women, one wealthy and one from a working-class background. His ambition and desire for status lead him to commit a crime that ultimately results in his downfall. The novel is a stark examination of the destructive power of unchecked ambition and the moral compromises people are willing to make in pursuit of wealth and status.

   The 195th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Sister Carrie

   

   The novel follows a young country girl who moves to the big city where she starts realizing her own American Dream by first becoming a mistress to men she perceives as superior and later as a famous actress. It is a portrayal of the realities of the modern city and the complexities of the modern world, illustrating the influence of consumer culture on the individual. Despite her moral decline, the protagonist's rise to fame seems to defy the conventional social norms and moral values, making the novel a notable instance of naturalist literature.

   The 336th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Stoic

   

   This novel serves as the concluding chapter in the life of its protagonist, a wealthy and influential businessman whose journey through success, love, and personal evolution has been chronicled in previous works. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, the narrative delves into the protagonist's introspective quest for meaning beyond material wealth and societal status. As he faces the twilight of his life, he grapples with the philosophical and existential questions that have shadowed him, seeking solace in the principles of Stoicism. Through his reflections and relationships, the story explores themes of ambition, morality, and the search for a tranquil mind amidst the inevitable trials of life.

   The 6478th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Jennie Gerhardt

   

   This novel tells the poignant story of Jennie Gerhardt, a young woman of humble origins who, through a series of unfortunate circumstances and societal pressures, becomes involved with two different men of higher social standing throughout her life. Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century America, the narrative explores themes of love, class disparity, and the struggle for personal dignity. Jennie's character embodies resilience and moral complexity as she navigates the challenges posed by her relationships and the harsh judgments of society, ultimately highlighting the human capacity for endurance and the quest for happiness amidst societal constraints.

   The 7857th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. The Titan

   A Sequel to "The Financier

   

   "The Titan" is a novel that continues the story of a ruthless and ambitious businessman as he expands his empire in the early 20th-century United States. Having conquered the streetcar industry, the protagonist now sets his sights on utilities and finance, using his wealth and power to manipulate stock markets, bribe officials, and crush any opposition. His personal life is equally tumultuous, filled with affairs and scandals that threaten his marriage and social standing. This narrative serves as a critique of the American Dream and the capitalist fervor of the time, exploring themes of greed, corruption, and the quest for power at the expense of ethics and human relationships.

   The 14403rd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. The Genius

   

   The novel centers on the life of Eugene Witla, a talented young artist who rises from humble beginnings to achieve success in the art world. As he navigates the complexities of his career, Eugene grapples with personal relationships, ambition, and the moral dilemmas that accompany his pursuit of greatness. His journey is marked by a series of romantic entanglements and professional challenges that ultimately force him to confront the true cost of his aspirations and the impact of his choices on those around him.

   The 14673rd Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. The Financier

   

   Set in the late 19th century, this novel follows the ambitious and shrewd Frank Cowperwood, who rises from humble beginnings to become a powerful financier in Philadelphia. Through a combination of charm, intelligence, and ruthless determination, he navigates the complex world of finance, politics, and society, often bending ethical boundaries to achieve his goals. As he amasses wealth and influence, Frank's personal life becomes entangled with scandal and betrayal, ultimately leading to a dramatic downfall that tests his resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

8. 8. The Bulwark

   

   Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, this novel explores the life of a devout Quaker, Solon Barnes, who grapples with the moral and ethical challenges of modern society. As he strives to uphold his values amidst the rapid changes brought by industrialization and urbanization, Solon faces personal and familial dilemmas that test his faith and convictions. Through his journey, the narrative delves into themes of spirituality, integrity, and the inevitable clash between tradition and progress, painting a poignant portrait of a man caught between the past and the future.

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9. 9. Theodore Dreiser

   

   Theodore Herman Albert Dreiser (; August 27, 1871 – December 28, 1945) was an American novelist and journalist of the naturalist school. His novels often featured main characters who succeeded at their objectives despite a lack of a firm moral code, and literary situations that more closely resemble studies of nature than tales of choice and agency. Dreiser's best-known novels include Sister Carrie (1900) and An American Tragedy (1925).
10. 10. Twelve Men

    

    A collection of twelve biographical sketches of influential historical figures, presented as vivid literary portraits that probe each man's character, ambitions, moral contradictions, and impact on society. Written in a candid, admiring style, the essays emphasize willpower, drive, and the forces that shape greatness while reflecting on the social and ethical consequences of individual action. Together they form a meditation on leadership, destiny, and the complexity of human achievement.

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