The Kentons   By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

In "The Kentons" by William Dean Howells, readers are immersed in a captivating story that delves into the lives of the Kenton family, offering a thoughtful portrayal of human relationships and societal dynamics.

The novel revolves around the lives of the Kentons, a middle-class family living in the late 19th century. Howells beautifully explores the intricacies of their daily lives, from their interactions with each other to their encounters with a diverse range of characters, all of whom contribute to their personal growth.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Howells' skillful characterization. Each member of the Kenton family is rendered with depth, making them relatable and endearing to readers. Whether it is the headstrong and independent Marcia Kenton, the kind and compassionate father Henry, or their three children, the author captures the essence of their personalities with an impressive level of nuance and realism.

Howells also sheds light on the various social issues prevalent during that time period. He explores themes of gender inequality, class struggles, and the tensions arising from societal expectations. Through the engaging dialogue and thought-provoking interactions between characters, the author offers a critique of these norms while promoting the importance of compassion and understanding.

What makes "The Kentons" truly remarkable is Howells' impeccable writing style. His prose is rich and elegant, capturing the spirit of the era while maintaining a timeless quality. The descriptive passages transport readers to the vivid landscapes of the American Midwest, creating a palpable sense of atmosphere.

While the pacing of the plot may appear slow at times, it is this deliberate unfolding of events that allows for a deep exploration of the characters' inner lives. Howells' attention to detail and meticulous exploration of their emotions and motivations create a powerful emotional connection between readers and the Kenton family.

"The Kentons" is a thought-provoking novel that seamlessly weaves together themes of family, society, and personal growth. William Dean Howells' masterful storytelling and rich character development make it a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.

First Page:

The Kentons were not rich, but they were certainly richer than the average in the pleasant county town of the Middle West, where they had spent nearly their whole married life. As their circumstances had grown easier, they had mellowed more and more in the keeping of their comfortable home, until they hated to leave it even for the short outings, which their children made them take, to Niagara or the Upper Lakes in the hot weather. They believed that they could not be so well anywhere as in the great square brick house which still kept its four acres about it, in the heart of the growing town, where the trees they had planted with their own hands topped it on three aides, and a spacious garden opened southward behind it to the summer wind. Kenton had his library, where he transacted by day such law business as he had retained in his own hands; but at night he liked to go to his wife's room and sit with her there. They left the parlors and piazzas to their girls, where they could hear them laughing with the young fellows who came to make the morning calls, long since disused in the centres of fashion, or the evening calls, scarcely more authorized by the great world. She sewed, and he read his paper in her satisfactory silence, or they played checkers together... Continue reading book >>