Jennie Gerhardt

Jennie Gerhardt is a novel by Theodore Dreiser that was controversial for its honest depiction of work, desire, and urban life. It follows the story of Jennie Gerhardt, a woman who struggles to make ends meet in Columbus, Ohio, and eventually meets a United States Senator who offers her financial help. Jennie becomes pregnant and the Senator promises to marry her, but he dies of typhoid. Left to raise a daughter on her own, Jennie moves to Cleveland and meets the son of a wealthy industrialist. She hides her daughter and joins Lester on a trip to New York. The novel is a powerful example of social critique and has endured as a classic of naturalist fiction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

Theodore Dreiser's novel "Jennie Gerhardt" (1911) is a groundbreaking work that delves into the complexities of work, desire, and urban life. Despite its controversial portrayal of these themes, the book has endured as a classic of naturalist fiction and remains a powerful example of social critique over a century after its publication. Originally titled "The Transgressor," the novel was shelved by Dreiser following a nervous breakdown in 1903. While it has been largely overshadowed by Dreiser's other works, it undoubtedly deserves renewed attention from readers and critics alike.

In the bustling city of Columbus, Ohio, Jennie Gerhardt faces the daily challenges of survival while working at a popular hotel. It is there that she meets a United States Senator, who takes a liking to her and offers his help with finances. Initially hesitant, Jennie eventually allows the Senator to assist her, and she forms a deep bond with him. However, their happiness is short-lived when Jennie becomes pregnant. Senator Brander promises to marry her and support her and their child, but fate intervenes with an outbreak of typhoid that claims the Senator's life. Left to raise a daughter on her own, Jennie relocates to Cleveland in search of work.

Employed as a lady's maid, Jennie meets the son of a wealthy industrialist who appears to be interested in pursuing a relationship with her. To stay with him, Jennie hides her daughter from him by leaving her with her mother and accompanies Lester on a trip to New York.

"Jennie Gerhardt" is a story of tragedy and hope, of one woman's unwavering determination to seize more out of life than was initially promised to her. Through her struggles and triumphs, Jennie becomes a symbol of resilience and strength, inspiring readers to embrace their own journeys and pursue their dreams.

This edition of Theodore Dreiser's "Jennie Gerhardt" is a testament to the enduring power of classic literature. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, it reimagines the timeless tale for modern readers. Whether you are a fan of naturalist fiction or social critique, this book is a must-read that will leave you pondering the complexities of human existence and the pursuit of happiness.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513135403