Most Popular Books by Edna Ferber

Edna Ferber''s "So Big" is a poignant exploration of ambition, resilience, and the American spirit, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Midwestern agriculture. Through the eyes of its indomitable protagonist, Selina Peaslee, Ferber employs a richly descriptive literary style that balances vivid imagery with sharp social commentary. The narrative unfolds in a pastoral setting, where the struggles of farmers reflect broader economic challenges, blending elements of realism with a keen examination of gender roles and societal expectations. Ferber''s ability to intertwine personal narrative with the wider cultural and economic landscape of the time positions "So Big" within the canon of American regional literature. Edna Ferber, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, was deeply influenced by her Midwestern upbringing, which prompted her to explore themes of self-discovery and the American landscape. Born in 1885 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Ferber experienced firsthand the complexities of contemporary life, particularly for women, during her time as a newspaper reporter. These experiences informed her nuanced portrayal of female characters and the dynamics of small-town life in "So Big," showcasing her commitment to rooting her narratives in authentic experiences. For readers seeking a rich, character-driven narrative that delves into the essence of human desire and the pursuit of success, "So Big" emerges as a compelling choice. Ferber''s keen observations and deft storytelling provide insight into the struggles and triumphs of a woman navigating the dual pressures of societal norms and personal ambition. This novel promises to resonate with those who appreciate a deep exploration of character set against historical and cultural backdrops.

A rich, varied, and brilliant collection of some of the most-loved stories from one of America''s favorite writers, chosen by the author herself, Pulitzer Prize winner Edna Ferber. At eighteen, Edna Ferber was the only female reporter on a big, tough, midwestern daily, covering everything from fires and accidents, to divorces and murders. It was here that she learned how to write and spin the raw material from her own life into numerous fascinating stories, novels, and plays. Increasing in number over the course of a long and glorious career, One Basket collects these beloved stories that, like her novels, present Ferber''s brilliant cross-section of American life.

Edna Ferber''s ''Show Boat'' is a groundbreaking novel that explores themes of race, identity, and love against the backdrop of the American South. Written in a realistic and engaging style, the novel follows the lives of the performers and crew aboard the Cotton Blossom, a floating theater that travels along the Mississippi River. Ferber''s use of vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue brings the characters to life, creating a rich and immersive reading experience that captures the essence of the early 20th century. Edna Ferber, known for her realistic and socially aware storytelling, was inspired to write ''Show Boat'' after witnessing a Mississippi River showboat performance. Her keen observations of human nature and societal issues are evident throughout the book, as she delves into the complexities of race relations and personal struggles. Ferber''s compassionate portrayal of her characters and her exploration of difficult topics set ''Show Boat'' apart as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. I highly recommend ''Show Boat'' to readers interested in historical fiction, American literature, and thought-provoking storytelling. Edna Ferber''s masterful blend of drama, romance, and social commentary makes this novel a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Pulitzer Prize winner Edna Ferber''s stunning first autobiography, in which she recounts her small-town Midwestern childhood and rise to literary fame, all amidst the backdrop of America around the turn of the 20th century. A modest girl growing up one of the only Jewish children in her Midwestern town, Edna Ferber started overcoming the odds at a young age. Pursuing work at the local newspaper as an innocent 17-year-old, she was assigned the night court shift, reporting on drugs and violence, and gradually finding her own voice in standing up to what she witnessed. As she continued to pursue writing, she recalls the various ways in which she found inspiration, leading her to publish her first books and later, So Big, which won a Pulitzer Prize and catapulted her to fame. Ferber''s incredible experiences all occur during a time of pre-WWII rising anti-Semitism and the gaining power of Hitler in Europe, and the various historical and political tensions of the time color the fascinating events of her life.

Dawn O’Hara: The Girl Who Laughed (1911) is a novel by Edna Ferber. Written while the author was recovering from a bout of anemia, Ferber’s debut marked the beginning of an illustrious literary career. Inspired by her experience as a reporter in the city and countryside, Dawn O’Hara: The Girl Who Laughed is the story of a young woman who recognizes the unhappiness in her life and decides to risk it all for something better. Lighthearted in nature, Ferber’s novel recalls the best of Fitzgerald in its unswerving commitment to humanity in all its beauty and terror. “‘Newspaper reporting, h''m? In New York? That''s a devil of a job for a woman. And a husband who... Well, you''ll have to take a six months'' course in loafing, young woman. And at the end of that time, if you are still determined to work, can''t you pick out something easier—like taking in scrubbing, for instance?’” As though suffering a mental breakdown wasn’t bad enough, Dawn is forced to listen to the snide advice of a doctor who seems to know more about her home and professional life than she does. Determined to maintain her career as a reporter, she decides to move to a small town and start fresh. Away from the hustle and bustle of New York City, she hopes to find success while learning more about herself in the process. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Edna Ferber’s Dawn O’Hara: The Girl Who Laughed is a classic work of American literature reimagined for modern readers.

"Buttered Side Down: Stories" is a collection of short stories by Pulitzer Prize winning author Edna Ferber. In the author''s words, ""And so," the story writers used to say, "they lived happily ever after." Um-m-m—maybe. After the glamour had worn off, and the glass slippers were worn out, did the Prince never find Cinderella''s manner redolent of the kitchen hearth; and was it never necessary that he remind her to be more careful of her finger-nails and grammar? After Puss in Boots had won wealth and a wife for his young master did not that gentleman often fume with chagrin because the neighbors, perhaps, refused to call on the lady of the former poor miller''s son? It is a great risk to take with one''s book-children. These stories make no such promises. They stop just short of the phrase of the old story writers, and end truthfully, thus: And so they lived."

Published to unprecedented literary acclaim in 1924, the Pulitzer-winning novel So Big established Edna Ferber as one of the twentieth century''s major American storytellers. The enthralling and compellingly readable novel recounts a redoubtable woman''s efforts to create an authentic version of the American dream for herself and her son, nicknamed "So Big," by moving up without selling out. Today, So Big can find a new audience among readers who care for women who value their individuality and independence. This Warbler Classics edition includes an introduction by Ulrich Baer and a detailed biographical timeline.

Clio Dulaine and Clint Maroon are a mismatched pair who fall in love in New Orleans and go to Saratoga during racing season to make their millions -- whatever it takes.

Published in 1929, Cimarron takes readers on a compelling journey through the Oklahoma land rush and the subsequent development of the state. It delves into the tumultuous era of American history, presenting a vivid portrayal of the pioneers who sought fortune, survival, and a sense of belonging in the untamed frontier. Through her meticulous research and evocative prose, Ferber skillfully captures the essence of the characters and their struggles, painting a rich tapestry of their dreams, aspirations, and disappointments.

This sweeping tale captures the essence of Texas on a staggering scale as it chronicles the life and times of cattleman Jordan "Bick" Benedict, his naive young society wife, Leslie, and three generations of land-rich sons. A sensational story of power, love, cattle barons, and oil tycoons, Giant was the basis of the classic film starring James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rock Hudson.

Fanny Herself (1917) is a novel by Edna Ferber. Inspired by her experience as a young Jewish woman from the Midwest, Fanny Herself is the story of a young woman who recognizes the unhappiness in her life and decides to risk it all for something better. Lighthearted in nature, yet serious in its ideals, Ferber’s novel recalls the best of Fitzgerald in its unswerving commitment to humanity in all its beauty and heartbreak. “You could not have lived a week in Winnebago without being aware of Mrs. Brandeis.” Such a confident pronouncement proves even truer for young Fanny, whose mother is the Mrs. Brandeis in question. As the owner of Brandeis’ Bazaar—a successful store raised from the ashes of her deceased husband’s chronic mismanagement—Molly Brandeis is a deeply serious woman who wants nothing but the best for her daughter. Where they differ, of course, is in the definition of that deceptive superlative. While Molly wants to train her daughter to follow in her managerial footsteps, Fanny dreams of training as an artist in order to escape the confinement of small-town life. Consistently moving, frequently funny, and supremely true, Fanny Herself is an underappreciated novel from Pulitzer Prize winning author Edna Ferber. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Edna Ferber’s Fanny Herself is a classic work of American literature reimagined for modern readers.

Originally published in 1945, the triumphant novel of a great American family dynasty in the Pacific Northwest, by Pulitzer Prize winner Edna Ferber. Great Son tells the story of four generations of the Melendys, a family grown rich and ill at ease, who watched Seattle grow from a village to a skyscraper town, who felt the rhythm and sweep of America in the building, and the call of the Alaskan gold fields. There is Madam Exact Melendy, who saw Seattle grow from an Indian camp to the wonder city of the Northwest, and Vaughan, her son, who wrested three fortunes from the wilderness, but yielded to the domination of three women. Finally, there is Mike Melendy, a clear-eyed representative of the new generation, who, feeling there was no place to go but up, took to flying. With her signature colorful prose, Edna Ferber brings to life the triumphant story of the magnificent Melendy men and women.

And d''you know what I''ll do meanwhile, out of revenge on the sex? I''ve just ordered three suits of white flannel, and I shall break every feminine heart in the camp, regardless'' Oh, say, that''s what I came in to tell you Guess whom I saw at the tailor''s? Well, Mr. Bones, whom did you, and so forth? Fat Ed Meyers. I just glimpsed him in one of the fitting-rooms. And they were draping him in white. Emma McChesney sat up with a jerk. Are you sure? Sure? There''s only one figure like that. He had the thing on and was surveying himself in the mirror'' or as much of himself as could be seen in one ordinary mirror. In that white suit, with his red face above it, he looked like those pictures you see labeled, ''Sunrise on Snow-covered Mountain.'' * Includes Broadway to Buenos Aires, Thanks to Miss Morrissey, A Closer Corporation, Blue Serge, ''Hoops, My Dear '', Sisters under Their Skin, and An Etude for Emma.

With “much humor” and “awareness of family dynamics” this classic novel “stands as an enduring portrait of women torn between duty and self-fulfillment”(Publishers Weekly). First published in 1921, Edna Ferber’s The Girls revolves around the “three Charlottes” of the Thrift family—Great-Aunt Charlotte, her niece Lottie, and Lottie’s niece Charley. All single “old maids,” as the narrator describes them, their lives weave together as they deal with issues involving money, work, friendship, family, and love as they strive to join Chicago’s growing middle class in the early twentieth century. With a historic span that travels from the Civil War to World War I, Ferber highlights how the three generations of Charlottes lead very different lives. But we also see the ways their experiences rhyme with one another and how, despite the social advances in America, as Kathleen Rooney writes in her introduction, all three have to confront “a sexist and claustrophobic societal atmosphere in which any little act of self-assertion can feel like a leap from a precipice.” Told through Ferber’s assured and generous style, and full of her signature strong female characters, The Girls is an American classic. “This is one of those books that nails setting and character so well that plot is mostly beside the point. . . . Ferber splits the difference with clearer prose and keener insight than [Sister Carrie author Theodore] Dreiser managed, while incorporating some of the same dry humor that [Babbitt author Sinclair] Lewis used to describe midwestern strivers.” —Dmitry Samarov, Chicago Reader “Written with such verve and insight that it could be a piece of historical fiction produced last week.” —Patrick T. Reardon, Third Coast Review

A collection of short stories from Pultizer Prize winner, Edna Ferber The short stories in this collection take the reader from small-town Wisconsin to the bustling streets of New York and Chicago and back again. While they range greatly in length and tone, they all share the trademark wit and affectionate insight of Edna Ferber. Showcasing the facility with words that made her a mainstay at the Algonquin round table, Ferber explores some of her favorite themes: the role of women (especially strong or unconventional women) in modern society, the mores of the midwestern small town, and the changes over time in relationships between parents and children. In "The Maternal Feminine," a plain, overlooked child grows into a strong, resourceful businesswoman and forms a strong motherly bond with the children of her more attractive sister. In "April 25th, As Usual," an aging Wisconsin couple reluctantly join their successful daughter in New York, where they try to adjust to a very different lifestyle. "Old Lady Mandle" is a bittersweet tale about an elderly Chicago mother coming to terms with the fact that she is no longer the most important woman in the life of her grown son. "One Hundred Per Cent" features Ferber''s celebrated heroine Emma McChesney, now re-married, seeing her husband off to war. The stories gathered here are beautifully observed chronicles of early twentieth-century life and are filled with characters who, despite their very human foibles, are all bestowed by Ferber with warmth and dignity.

Edna Ferber, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Show Boat and Giant, achieved her first great success with a series of stories featuring Emma McChesney: a smart, stylish, divorced mother who in a mere twelve years rose from stenographer to traveling sales representative to business manager and partner of the T. A. Buck Featherloom Petticoat Company. In this final of three volumes chronicling the travels and trials of Emma McChesney, first published in 1915, Emma''s son, Jock, has moved to Chicago with his new wife. Struggling with a newly emptied nest, Emma dives into a whirlwind South American sales tour to prove she hasn''t lost her touch. Back in New York, Emma and her business partner, T. A. Buck Jr., try to disguise their budding romance from colleagues. After months of acting like a "captain of finance when he feels like a Romeo," T. A. convinces Emma they should marry. Emma tries to "be what the yellow novels call a doll-wife" but trades in her fancy dressing gowns for more sensible business suits and heads back to the office. With one hand writing advertising copy and the other wrapped around a pair of shears, Emma saves the company from financial peril amid the arrival of some flustering, if exciting, news from Jock. By turns sales pro, newlywed, fashion maven, and anxious grandmother, Emma symbolizes the ideal woman at the dawn of the twentieth century: sharp, capable, charming, and progressive. Emma McChesney and Co. is enhanced by the illustrations of James Montgomery Flagg, one of the most highly regarded book illustrators of the period.

Edna Ferber (August 15, 1885 - April 16, 1968) was an American novelist, short story writer and playwright. Her novels include the Pulitzer Prize-winning So Big (1924), Show Boat (1926; made into the celebrated 1927 musical), Cimarron (1930; adapted into the 1931 film which won the Academy Award for Best Picture), Giant (1952; made into the 1956 film of the same name) and Ice Palace (1958), which also received a film adaptation in 1960. Ferber''s novels generally featured strong female protagonists, along with a rich and diverse collection of supporting characters. She usually highlighted at least one strong secondary character who faced discrimination, ethnic or otherwise. Ferber''s works often concerned small subsets of American culture, and sometimes took place in exotic locations she had visited but was not intimately familiar with, such as Texas or Alaska. She thus helped to highlight the diversity of American culture to those who did not have the opportunity to experience it. Some novels are set in places she had not visited. (wikipedia.org)

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A seminal short story collection containing 12 humorous and dark tales from the prominent Jazz Age author, Edna Ferber. This 1912 volume highlights Edna Ferber’s famous wit as well as her masterful control over tragedy. The 12 stories featured in this collection reflect early twentieth-century moral values in America, and demonstrate everyday life in the 1910s. Often armed with a strong, female protagonist, Ferber writes realistic characters and fascinating tales. This volume features the following short stories: - ‘The Frog and the Puddle’ - ‘The Man Who Came Back’ - ‘What She Wore’ - ‘A Bush League Hero’ - ‘The Kitchen Side of the Door’ - ‘One of the Old Girls’ - ‘Maymeys From Cuba’ - ‘The Leading Lady’ - ‘That Home-Town Feeling’ - ‘The Homely Heroine’ - ‘Sun Dried’ - ‘Where the Car Turns at 18th’ Now in a brand new edition, this volume has been republished by Read & Co. Classics, complete with an introduction by Rogers Dickinson. Buttered Side Down would make a great addition to the bookshelf of Edna Ferber fans and lovers of short stories.

The story follows the life of a young woman, Selina Peake De Jong, who decides to be a school teacher in farming country. During her stay on the Pool family farm, she encourages the young Roelf Pool to follow his interests, which include art. Upon his mother''s death, Roelf runs away to France. Meanwhile, Selina marries a Dutch farmer named Pervus. They have a child together, Dirk, whom she nicknames "So Big," from the common question and answer "How big is baby? " "So-o-o-o big!" (Ferber, 2). Pervus becomes ill and dies, and Selina is forced to take over working on the farm to give Dirk a future. As Dirk gets older, he works as an architect but is more interested in making money than creating buildings and becomes a stock broker, much to his mother''s disappointment. His love interest, Dallas O''Mara, an acclaimed artist, echoes this sentiment by trying to convince Dirk that there is more to life than money. Much later in life, Selina is visited by Roelf Pool, who has since become a famous sculptor. Dirk grows very distressed when, after visiting his mother''s farm, he realizes that Dallas and Roelf love each other and he cannot compete with the artistically minded sculptor. In the end, Dirk comes to appreciate the wisdom of his mother, who always valued aesthetics and beauty even as she scraped out a living in a stern Dutch community. Ultimately, Dirk is left alone in his sumptuous apartment, saddened by his abandonment of artistic values.

The door marked "MRS. MCCHESNEY" was closed. T. A. Buck, president of the Buck Featherloom Petticoat Company, coming gaily down the hall, stopped before it, dismayed, as one who, with a spicy bit of news at his tongue''s end, is met with rebuff before the first syllable is voiced. That closed door meant: "Busy. Keep out." "She''ll be reading a letter," T. A. Buck told himself grimly. Then he turned the knob and entered his partner''s office. Mrs. Emma McChesney was reading a letter. More than that, she was poring over it so that, at the interruption, she glanced up in a maddeningly half-cocked manner which conveyed the impression that, while her physical eye beheld the intruder, her mental eye was still on the letter. "I knew it," said T. A. Buck morosely. Emma McChesney put down the letter and smiled. "Sit down—now that you''re in. And if you expect me to say, ''Knew what?'' you''re doomed to disappointment." T. A. Buck remained standing, both gloved hands clasping his walking stick on which he leaned.

The door marked -MRS. MCCHESNEY- was closed. T. A. Buck, president of the Buck Featherloom Petticoat Company, coming gaily down the hall, stopped before it, dismayed, as one who, with a spicy bit of news at his tongue''s end, is met with rebuff before the first syllable is voiced. That closed door meant: -Busy. Keep out.- -She''ll be reading a letter,- T. A. Buck told himself grimly. Then he turned the knob and entered his partner''s office. Mrs. Emma McChesney was reading a letter. More than that, she was poring over it so that, at the interruption, she glanced up in a maddeningly half-cocked.

In ''Roast Beef, Medium: The Business Adventures of Emma McChesney,'' Edna Ferber artfully weaves the everyday struggles and victories of the spirited Emma McChesney, a trailblazing female protagonist who captivates readers with her sharp wit and indomitable spirit. Set against the backdrop of early twentieth-century America, Ferber''s novel employs an engaging literary style, combining humor, drama, and a touch of romance. As McChesney navigates the challenges of being a single parent and a professional in a male-dominated industry, Ferber''s narrative is both a reflection of the period''s gender dynamics and an early feminist portrayal of a woman claiming her space in the business world and beyond. Edna Ferber, an icon of American literature, is celebrated for her masterful storytelling and her ability to bring to life complex characters who defy societal expectations. Her personal understanding of the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society informed her writing of Emma McChesney''s character. The creation of a formidable female lead, like McChesney who juggles both work and motherhood with aplomb, not only mirrors Ferber''s own trailblazing career but also serves as an inspirational figure for readers of her time and ours. ''Recommendation is warranted for ''Roast Beef, Medium'' to anyone who appreciates early feminist literature and an exploration of the American Dream through the lens of a woman taking on the dual roles of breadwinner and caregiver. Ferber''s novel is a glimpse into a transformative era and speaks to the timeless theme of resilience in the face of adversity. It is a must-read for those who relish in stories of empowerment and enjoy a narrative that blends societal commentary with humor and heart.

Originally published in 1931, this bestselling American family saga from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edna Ferber shares the story of the Oakes family, as their relationships and property encounter numerous struggles over the course of hundreds of years. In the early 18th century, the Oakes family was one of many working to settle their land in the Connecticut Valley, facing harsh winters and land disputes. Their attempts over the years to tame the land and produce a properous tobacco farm prove more difficult than expected, and when the family takes on Polish immigrants to work the farm, cultures clash, and relationships become complicated. American Beauty follows the goings-on at the Oakes estate from 1700 through 1930, and whether in times of family turmoil or hopeful prosperity, Edna Ferber''s cast of fascinating characters and pitch-perfect take on American life rings true.