The Greatest American "Historical fiction" Books From 1910 to 1919

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 290 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. The Magnificent Ambersons by Booth Tarkington

    "The Magnificent Ambersons" is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel set in the early 20th century that explores the dramatic changes brought about by the industrial revolution in America. It follows the decline of the once-prosperous Amberson family as their fortune and influence wane with the rise of new money and modern technology. The story is centered around the prideful and spoiled George Amberson Minafer, whose arrogance and inability to adapt to the changing world lead to his downfall.

  2. 2. The Titan by Theodore Dreiser

    "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.

  3. 3. Virginia by Ellen Glasgow

    The novel is a portrayal of the life of a Southern woman named Virginia, who embodies the traditional values and social expectations of the American South at the turn of the 20th century. Throughout the story, Virginia's personal journey is marked by her marriage, motherhood, and the gradual disillusionment with her prescribed role in society. As she confronts the changing world around her, including the challenges of modernity and the evolving status of women, she experiences both internal conflict and growth. The narrative delves into themes of identity, societal norms, and the struggle for self-realization within the confines of a conservative and patriarchal culture.

  4. 4. The Mark Of Zorro by Johnston McCulley

    This classic adventure novel is set in early 19th century California, under Spanish rule. It tells the story of Don Diego Vega, a seemingly effete and foppish nobleman, who leads a double life as the masked outlaw Zorro. Zorro champions the oppressed and fights the corrupt government and its officials, using his wit, swordsmanship, and acrobatic skills. The story weaves together themes of justice, honor, and romance, as Zorro navigates his secret identity, battles villains, and wins the heart of the beautiful Lolita Pulido. Through daring escapades and a quest for justice, Zorro leaves his mark as a symbol of hope and resistance against tyranny.

  5. 5. The Rise Of David Levinsky by Abraham Cahan

    The book is a classic rags-to-riches tale set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, chronicling the life of a young Jewish immigrant who arrives in America with nothing and eventually becomes a wealthy garment industry mogul in New York City. The protagonist's journey is marked by his struggle with personal identity and assimilation, as he grapples with the tension between his traditional Jewish upbringing and the allure of success and acceptance in American society. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, the American Dream, and the immigrant experience, offering a poignant exploration of the costs of upward mobility and the complex interplay between cultural heritage and modernity.

  6. 6. Letters Of A Woman Homesteader by Elinore Pruitt Stewart

    "Letters of a Woman Homesteader" is a collection of spirited and insightful letters written by a young widow who leaves Denver in 1909 to settle in the Wyoming frontier. Through her correspondence, she shares her experiences and adventures as she homesteads alone with her daughter, offering a vivid portrayal of the challenges and joys of rural life. Her letters reveal not only the hardships faced by homesteaders but also the moments of community, friendship, and personal growth, providing a unique female perspective on a predominantly male-driven endeavor.

  7. 7. The Haunted Bookshop by Christopher Morley

    "The Haunted Bookshop" is a novel set in a charming Brooklyn bookstore that, despite its name, features no actual ghosts. Instead, the shop is metaphorically "haunted" by the spirits of great literature. The story revolves around the shop's owner, Roger Mifflin, who is passionate about the power of books to offer wisdom and insight. The plot thickens when a young advertising man, Aubrey Gilbert, visits the shop and becomes involved in a mystery involving a missing book, potential German espionage during the post-World War I era, and a budding romance with Mifflin’s young assistant. The novel combines elements of mystery, romance, and a deep appreciation for literature.

  8. 8. Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man by James Weldon Johnson

    The book is a fictional autobiography of a biracial man living in post-Reconstruction America. The protagonist, who is born to a white father and black mother, initially embraces his black heritage and becomes a successful ragtime musician. However, after witnessing a brutal racial attack, he decides to pass as white to avoid racial prejudice. Despite his financial success and comfortable life in white society, he struggles with his decision to deny his African-American heritage.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download