‘Mark Twain’ with Ron Chernow

Published in 1873, 'The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today' is a satirical novel that satirizes greed and political corruption in the United States during the late 19th century. The book follows the story of the Hawkins family and their attempts to improve their fortunes through land speculation. It also includes a parallel story about two young men, Philip Sterling and Henry Brierly, who seek their fortunes in similar ways. The novel is notable for its commentary on the social and political dynamics of the time, including themes of corruption, materialism, and the struggles of the era. The title 'The Gilded Age' has become synonymous with the period in American history from the 1870s to the late 1890s, characterized by its superficial glitter and underlying corruption.

In 'Washington: A Life', Ron Chernow provides a richly detailed and engaging portrait of George Washington. The book covers his adventurous early years, his heroic exploits during the Revolutionary War, his role in the Constitutional Convention, and his significant contributions as the first president of the United States. Chernow challenges the stereotype of Washington as a stolid, unemotional figure, instead revealing a man of fiery opinions, many moods, and a fiercely guarded emotional life. The biography delves into Washington's personal relationships, his complex feelings about slavery, and his meticulous management of Mount Vernon. It also highlights his political genius and his role in shaping the new federal government and the office of the presidency.

Ron Chernow's biography of Ulysses S. Grant provides a detailed and nuanced portrait of Grant's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a Union general and his presidency. The book corrects many misconceptions about Grant, portraying him as a complex figure who was both a skilled military commander and a progressive leader in terms of race relations. Chernow explores Grant's struggles with alcoholism, his military campaigns, and his efforts to protect the rights of newly freed slaves during Reconstruction. The biography also delves into Grant's post-presidency, including his world tour and the publication of his memoirs with the help of Mark Twain.

Published in 1884 in the UK and 1885 in the US, 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' is a sequel to Mark Twain's 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'. The novel follows Huck Finn, a young boy who escapes his abusive father by faking his own death, and Jim, a runaway slave. Together, they embark on a perilous journey down the Mississippi River on a raft. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including con artists and feuding families, and Huck grapples with moral dilemmas, particularly regarding his support for Jim despite the societal norms against helping a runaway slave. The novel is a critique of pre-Civil War American society, especially its treatment of slavery and racial issues, and it has been praised for its realistic portrayal of boyhood and its exploration of complex moral themes.

This book provides an unprecedented view into the development of *Hamilton*, from its conception to its landmark opening night on Broadway. It includes the full libretto of the musical, photographs, interviews with key figures involved in the production, and over 200 footnotes by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The book also features contributions from Questlove, Stephen Sondheim, and President Obama, among others, and offers insights into the artistic process and the historical context of the musical.

Published in 1869, 'The Innocents Abroad' is a travel book that humorously chronicles Mark Twain's 'Great Pleasure Excursion' on board the chartered steamship Quaker City. The book recounts Twain's five-month voyage through Europe and the Holy Land with a group of American travelers. It focuses on themes such as travel, culture, history, and realism, using Twain's signature satire to critique and describe the various regions and cultures he encountered. The book was a best-seller during Twain's lifetime and remains one of the best-selling travel books of all time.