Jennie Gerhardt by Theodore Dreiser

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 2846th greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 132

Since this book was first published in 1911, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 132.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.