Edith Wharton

March 15, 2001
Arguably our greatest novelist of manners, Wharton (The House of Mirth) evoked the glittering heights and the decadent lows of New York society at the turn of the 20th century. However, it was with her short stories and her novellas that the author honed her technique and her sharp social satire. These two volumes offer a glimpse into Wharton's development as a writer and provide perfect companions to the Library of America's Edith Wharton: Novels (1986) and Edith Wharton: Novellas and Other Writings (1989). Volume 1 opens with her first published story, "Mrs. Manstey's View," and contains the novellas "The Touchstone" and "Sanctuary." These early stories include Wharton's characteristic social satire and her keen insights into sexual relationships. Volume 2 features the novellas "Roman Fever" and "Bunner Sisters," as well as several of her stories about World War I, including "The Marne" and "Writing a War Story." These stories capture Wharton's mastery at characterization and the maturity of her reflections on society. Novelist Howard (Grace Abounding) selected the contents and wrote the notes for each volume. These elegant editions provide a convenient collection of Wharton's stories. An essential purchase. Henry L. Carrigan Jr., Lancaster, PA

Copyright 2001 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.