The Octopus by Frank Norris
A Story of California
The book in question is a turn-of-the-century American novel that explores the conflict between wheat farmers in California and the railroad monopoly, which seeks to control the means of transportation and manipulate market prices for its own gain. The narrative delves into the lives of a diverse cast of characters, including farmers, railroad barons, and other individuals caught in the struggle, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities of agrarian life and the ruthless nature of corporate power. The story is a poignant critique of unchecked capitalism and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and communities, ultimately serving as a reflection on the broader social and economic tensions of the era.
The 3003rd greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1901
- Nationality
- American
- Length
- Long
- Pages
- 650-700
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
-
(5.0)
- Alternate Titles
- None
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This book is on the following 4 lists:
- 91st on Choosing the Century's(20th) Favorite Books(1924) (The Literary Digest)
- 150 Great Reads (The Spokesman-Review Spokane Chronicle )
- Harold Bloom's The Western Canon (The Western Canon (Book) by Harold Bloom)
- One Hundred Best American Novels, 1770 to 1985 (The American Scholar)