The American by Henry James
My review rating: 4 of 5 stars With the title of 'The American' one can't help but think that the main character could be seen as a 'type.' This type (too commercial, not acquainted with the social intricacies created by Monarchy and old money) could surely be seen at the turn of the century and also today. But if this is the case and the main character's biggest 'flaw' (or was it strength?) was his niceness, then this makes this novel a haunting commentary on the role that America and Americans play in Europe and elsewhere. Not an easy read, but an essential one for any American wanting to travel outside of the states.
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