Best Selling Books by Willa Cather

My Antonia By Willa Cather Cowboy Classics New Edition My Antonia (pronounced with the accent on the first syllable of "Antonia") is a novel published in 1918 by American writer Willa Cather, considered one of her greatest works. It is the final book of her "prairie trilogy" of novels, preceded by O Pioneers! and The Song of the Lark. The American frontier comprises the geography, history, folklore, and cultural expression of life in the forward wave of American westward expansion that began with English colonial settlements in the early 17th century and ended with the admission of the last mainland territories as states in the early 20th century. Enormous popular attention in the media focuses on the Western United States in the second half of the nineteenth century, a period sometimes called the Old West, or the Wild West. Western fiction is a genre of literature set in the American Old West frontier and typically set from the late eighteenth to the late nineteenth century. Well-known writers of Western fiction include Zane Grey from the early 1900s and Louis L''Amour from the mid 20th century. The genre peaked around the early 1960s, largely due to the popularity of televised Westerns such as Bonanza. Readership began to drop off in the mid- to late 1970s and has reached a new low in the 2000s. Most bookstores, outside of a few west American states, only carry a small number of Western fiction books.

The novel tells the stories of an orphaned boy from Virginia, Jim Burden, and the elder daughter in a family of Bohemian immigrants, �ntonia Shimerda, who are each brought as children to be pioneers in Nebraska towards the end of the 19th century. Both the pioneers who first break the prairie sod for farming, as well as of the harsh but fertile land itself, feature in this American novel. The first year in the very new place leaves strong impressions in both children, affecting them lifelong.

Dr. Howard Archie had just come up from a game of pool with the Jewish clothier and two traveling men who happened to be staying overnight in Moonstone. His offices were in the Duke Block, over the drug store. Larry, the doctor''s man, had lit the overhead light in the waiting-room and the double student''s lamp on the desk in the study. The isinglass sides of the hard-coal burner were aglow, and the air in the study was so hot that as he came in the doctor opened the door into his little operating-room, where there was no stove. The waiting room was carpeted and stiffly furnished, something like a country parlor. The study had worn, unpainted floors, but there was a look of winter comfort about it. The doctor''s flat-top desk was large and well made; the papers were in orderly piles, under glass weights. Behind the stove a wide bookcase, with double glass doors, reached from the floor to the ceiling. It was filled with medical books of every thickness and color. On the top shelf stood a long row of thirty or forty volumes, bound all alike in dark mottled board covers, with imitation leather backs.

Sapphira and the Slave Girl is Willa Cather''s last novel, published in 1940. It is the story of Sapphira Dodderidge Colbert, a bitter white woman, who becomes irrationally jealous of Nancy, a beautiful young slave. The book balances an atmospheric portrait of antebellum Virginia against an unblinking view of the lives of Sapphira''s slaves.

This book is the third of four volumes and presents one novel by Willa Cather and one by F. Scott Fitzgerald, regarded as Two of The Greatest American Writers of the 20th Century. Volume I. (First Novel): Alexander''s Bridge / This Side of Paradise Volume II: One of Ours / The Beautiful and Damned Volume IV. (Last Novel): Sapphira and the Slave Girl / Tender is the Night (finished novel) The Professor''s House was written in 1925, in post-war America. In a similar fashion to F. Scott Fitzgerald''s The Great Gatsby, Cather narrates a story about the moral decline of a money-driven society. When Professor Godfrey St. Peter and wife move to a new house, he becomes uncomfortable with the route his life is taking. He keeps on his dusty study in the old house in an attempt to hang on to his old life. The marriages of his two daughters have removed them from the home and added two new sons-in-law, precipitating a mid-life crisis that leaves the Professor feeling as though he has lost the will to live because he has nothing to look forward to. The novel initially addresses the Professor''s interactions with his new sons-in-law and his family, while continually alluding to the pain they all feel over the death of Tom Outland in the Great War. Outland was not only the Professor''s student and friend, but the fiance of his elder daughter, who is now living off the wealth created by the "Outland vacuum." The novel''s central section turns to Outland, and recounts in first-person the story of his exploration of an ancient cliff city in New Mexico. The section is a retrospective narrative remembered by the professor. In the final section, the professor, left alone while his family takes an expensive European tour, narrowly escapes death due to a gas leak in his study; and finds himself strangely willing to die. He is rescued by the old family seamstress, Augusta, who has been his staunch friend throughout. He resolves to go on with his life. The Great Gatsby is a novel written that follows a cast of characters living in the fictional town of West Egg on prosperous Long Island in the summer of 1922. The story primarily concerns the young and mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his quixotic passion and obsession for the beautiful former debutante Daisy Buchanan. Considered to be Fitzgerald''s magnum opus, The Great Gatsby explores themes of decadence, idealism, resistance to change, social upheaval, and excess, creating a portrait of the Jazz Age or the Roaring Twenties that has been described as a cautionary tale regarding the American Dream. Fitzgerald-inspired by the parties he had attended while visiting Long Island''s north shore-began planning the novel in 1923, desiring to produce, in his words, "something new-something extraordinary and beautiful and simple and intricately patterned." Progress was slow, with Fitzgerald completing his first draft following a move to the French Riviera in 1924. His editor, Maxwell Perkins, felt the book was vague and persuaded the author to revise over the next winter. Fitzgerald was repeatedly ambivalent about the book''s title and he considered a variety of alternatives, including titles that referenced the Roman character Trimalchio; the title he was last documented to have desired was Under the Red, White, and Blue. First published by Scribner''s in April 1925, The Great Gatsby received mixed reviews and sold poorly; in its first year, the book sold only 20,000 copies. Fitzgerald died in 1940, believing himself to be a failure and his work forgotten. However, the novel experienced a revival during World War II, and became a part of American high school curricula and numerous stage and film adaptations in the following decades. Today, The Great Gatsby is widely considered to be a literary classic and a contender for the title "Great American Novel." In 1998, the Modern Library editorial board voted it the 20th century''s best American novel and second best English-language novel of the same time period."

Featuring an appendix of discussion questions, the Diversion Classics edition is ideal for use in book groups and classrooms. On his journey to Nebraska, Jim, a young orphan, meets a family of Bohemian immigrants, the Shimerdas. The novel traces the friendship between Jim and the Shimerdas'' eldest daughter, Antonia, as they grow up, weathering difficult winters and family tragedy. MY ANTONIA is a seminal piece of American literature and a masterpiece of the American West.

A group of the townspeople stood on the station siding of a little Kansas town, awaiting the coming of the night train, which was already twenty minutes overdue. The snow had fallen thick over everything; in the pale starlight the line of bluffs across the wide, white meadows south of the town made soft, smoke-colored curves against the clear sky. The men on the siding stood first on one foot and then on the other, their hands thrust deep into their trousers pockets, their overcoats open, their shoulders screwed up with the cold; and they glanced from time to time toward the southeast, where the railroad track wound along the river shore. They conversed in low tones and moved about restlessly, seeming uncertain as to what was expected of them.

Discover the Timeless Masterpiece: "Death Comes for the Archbishop" by Willa Cather Step into the enchanting world of the American Southwest with Willa Cather''s "Death Comes for the Archbishop," a novel that transcends time and place, capturing the essence of human spirit and resilience. This literary gem, first published in 1927, remains a cornerstone of American literature, celebrated for its lyrical prose and profound themes. A Journey Through Time and Faith Set in the mid-19th century, "Death Comes for the Archbishop" follows the remarkable journey of Father Jean Marie Latour and his companion, Father Joseph Vaillant, as they navigate the vast, untamed landscapes of New Mexico. Sent by the Vatican to reestablish the Catholic Church in this remote territory, they face not only the physical challenges of the rugged terrain but also the spiritual and cultural complexities of the diverse communities they encounter. A Tapestry of Rich Characters Cather''s masterful storytelling brings to life a vivid tapestry of characters, each with their own unique struggles and triumphs. From the devout and determined Father Latour, whose unwavering faith guides him through adversity, to the loyal and spirited Father Vaillant, whose boundless energy and compassion touch the hearts of many, every character is meticulously crafted, leaving an indelible mark on the reader''s soul. A Celebration of Nature and Culture The novel is a love letter to the American Southwest, with Cather''s evocative descriptions painting a breathtaking picture of the region''s natural beauty. The majestic mesas, the serene deserts, and the vibrant pueblos are more than just a backdrop; they are integral to the story, reflecting the deep connection between the land and its people. Cather''s portrayal of the Native American and Hispanic cultures is both respectful and insightful, offering a nuanced perspective on the rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs that define the region. A Meditation on Life and Mortality At its core, "Death Comes for the Archbishop" is a meditation on life, faith, and mortality. Cather explores the profound questions of existence with grace and sensitivity, inviting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values. The novel''s timeless themes resonate as deeply today as they did nearly a century ago, making it a truly enduring work of art. Why You Should Read "Death Comes for the Archbishop" - Timeless Themes: Explore universal themes of faith, resilience, and the human spirit. - Rich Characterization: Meet unforgettable characters whose stories will stay with you long after you turn the last page. - Stunning Prose: Experience Cather''s lyrical writing, which brings the American Southwest to life in vivid detail. - Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures and histories that shape the region. - Reflective and Thought-Provoking: Engage with profound questions about life, death, and the meaning of existence. Don''t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this literary masterpiece. "Death Comes for the Archbishop" is more than just a novel; it''s a journey of the soul, a celebration of the human spirit, and a testament to the enduring power of faith and love. Pick up your copy today and discover why Willa Cather''s work continues to captivate readers around the world.

The narrative follows Bishop Jean Latour and Father Joseph Vaillant, friends since their childhood in France, as they organize the new Roman Catholic diocese of Santa Fe subsequent to the Mexican War. While seeking to revive the church and build a cathedral in the desert, the clerics, like their historical prototypes, Bishop Jean Laury and Father Joseph Machebeuf, face religious corruption, natural adversity, and the loneliness of living in a strange and unforgiving land.

This Prestwick House Literary Touchstone Classic? includes a glossary and reader?s notes to help the modern reader contend with Cather?s allusions and vocabulary. My Antonia, Willa Cather?s vivid portrayal of immigrant life on the American prairie during the nineteenth century, has been a favorite since it first appeared in 1918. The harsh?yet forgiving?land, the growth and maturity of Jim Burden, the narrator, the intriguing characters, and the force of Antonia?s strength all combine to make this novel exceptional. Cather?s style perfectly depicts the sparseness of the prairie and the desolation of the immigrants? existence in winter and comes alive when the glory and beauty of spring emerge. Whether you see it as a love story, an indelible portrait of a wise, enduring female character, or a coming-of-age novel, My Antonia is deserving of its respected place in American literature.

Willa Cather’s My Ántonia is considered one of the most significant American novels of the twentieth century. Set during the great migration west to settle the plains of the North American continent, the narrative follows Ántonia Shimerda, a pioneer who comes to Nebraska as a child and grows with the country, inspiring a childhood friend, Jim Burden, to write her life story. The novel is important both for its literary aesthetic and as a portrayal of important aspects of American social ideals and history, particularly the centrality of migration to American culture. The Broadview edition includes a rich selection of primary source materials: the revised introduction for the 1926 edition; Cather’s “Mesa Verde Wonderland is Easy to Reach…,” “Nebraska: The End of the First Cycle,” “Peter”, and her comments on the novel; contemporary reviews and photographs.

The paperback edition contains all the text and scholarly apparatus found in the original Willa Cather Scholarly Edition. Edited according to standards set by the Committee for Scholarly Editions of the Modern Language Association, this volume presents the full range of biographical, historical, and textual information on the novel.

Willa Cather''s first published novel, set in Boston, London, and Paris, is the story of a man unable to resolve the contradictions in his own nature. The central figures are Bartley Alexander, a world-famous engineer; his wife; Winifred, a Boston society matron; and his former love, Hilda Burgoyne, a London actress. Long considered an uncharacteristic production, in the light of recent scholarship "Alexander''s Bridge" is seen to be closely linked to the body of Cather''s work, thematically as well as in its use of myth and symbol. Bernice Slote''s introduction considers the circumstances of its composition and its relationship to the later novels, particularly "One of Ours," "The Professor''s House," and "Lucy Gayheart." The text has been entirely reset from the first (1912) edition.

The first of her renowned prairie novels--a story that expresses Cather''s conviction that "the history of every country begins in the heart of a man or a woman." When Alexandra Bergson takes over the family farm after her father''s death, she falls under the spell of the rich, forbidding Nebraska prairie.

Wilella Sibert Cather (December 7, 1873 - April 24, 1947) isan eminent author from the United States. She is perhaps bestknown for her depictions of U.S. life in novels such as O Pioneers!,My Ántonia, and Death Comes for the Archbishop.

My Antonia is a novel published in 1918 by American writer Willa Cather, considered one of her best works. It is the final book of her "prairie trilogy" of novels, preceded by O Pioneers! and The Song of the Lark.The novel tells the stories of an orphaned boy from Virginia, Jim Burden, and the elder daughter in a family of Bohemian immigrants, �ntonia Shimerda, who are each brought as children to be pioneers in Nebraska towards the end of the 19th century. Both the pioneers who first break the prairie sod for farming, as well as of the harsh but fertile land itself, feature in this American novel. The first year in the very new place leaves strong impressions in both children, affecting them lifelong.This novel is considered Cather''s first masterpiece. Cather was praised for bringing the American West to life and making it personally interesting.

The Professor''s House is a novel by American novelist Willa Cather. Published in 1925, the novel was written over the course of several years. Cather first wrote the centerpiece, "Tom Outland''s Story," and then later wrote the two framing chapters "The Family" and "The Professor." When Professor Godfrey St. Peter and wife move to a new house, he becomes uncomfortable with the route his life is taking. He keeps on his dusty study in the old house in an attempt to hang on to his old life. The marriages of his two daughters have removed them from the home and added two new sons-in-law, precipitating a mid-life crisis that leaves the Professor feeling as though he has lost the will to live because he has nothing to look forward to.

My Ántonia evokes the Nebraska prairie life of Willa Cather''s childhood, and commemorates the spirit and courage of immigrant pioneers in America. One of Cather''s earliest novels, written in 1918, it is the story of Ántonia Shimerda, who arrives on the Nebraska frontier as part of a family of Bohemian emigrants. Her story is told through the eyes of Jim Burden, a neighbor who will befriend Ántonia, teach her English, and follow the remarkable story of her life

O Pioneers! is a 1913 novel by American author Willa Cather, written while she was living in New York. It is the first novel of her Great Plains trilogy, followed by The Song of the Lark (1915) and My Antonia (1918).

My �ntonia is a novel published in 1918 by American writer Willa Cather, considered one of her best works. It is the final book of her "prairie trilogy" of novels, preceded by O Pioneers! and The Song of the Lark.

Set in the 1890s in Moonstone, a fictional town located in Colorado, The Song of the Lark is the self-portrait of an artist in the making. The story revolves around an ambitious young heroine, Thea Kronborg, who leaves her hometown to go to the big city to fulfill her dream of becoming a well-trained pianist, a better piano teacher. When her piano instructor hears her voice, he realizes that this is her true artistic gift. He encourages her to pursue her vocal training instead of piano saying ... "your voice is worth all that you can put into it. I have not come to this decision rashly." The novel captures Thea''s independent-mindedness, her strong work ethic, and her ascent to her highest achievement. At each step along the way, her realization of the mediocrity of her peers propels her to greater levels of accomplishment, but in the course of her ascent she must discard those relationships which no longer serve her.

Lucy Gayheart is Willa Cather''s eleventh novel. It was published in 1935.

Set on the Nebraska prairie where Willa Cather (1873-1947) grew up, this powerful early novel tells the story of the young Alexandra Bergson, whose dying father leaves her in charge of the family and of the lands they have struggled to farm. In Alexandra''s long flight to survive and succeed, O Pioneers! relates an important chapter in the history of the American frontier.

This is an annotated version of the book1. contains an updated biography of the author at the end of the book for a better understanding of the text.2. This book has been checked and corrected for spelling errorsLAST summer I happened to be crossing the plains of Iowa in a seasonof intense heat, and it was my good fortune to have for a travelingcompanion James Quayle Burden--Jim Burden, as we still call him in theWest. He and I are old friends--we grew up together in the same Nebraskatown--and we had much to say to each other. While the train flashedthrough never-ending miles of ripe wheat, by country towns andbright-flowered pastures and oak groves wilting in the sun, we sat inthe observation car, where the woodwork was hot to the touch and reddust lay deep over everything. The dust and heat, the burning wind,reminded us of many things. We were talking about what it is like tospend one''s childhood in little towns like these, buried in wheat andcorn, under stimulating extremes of climate: burning summers when theworld lies green and billowy beneath a brilliant sky, when one is fairlystifled in vegetation, in the color and smell of strong weeds and heavyharvests; blustery winters with little snow, when the whole country isstripped bare and gray as sheet-iron. We agreed that no one who had notgrown up in a little prairie town could know anything about it. It was akind of freemasonry, we said.Although Jim Burden and I both live in New York, and are old friends, Ido not see much of him there. He is legal counsel for one of the greatWestern railways, and is sometimes away from his New York office forweeks together. That is one reason why we do not often meet. Another isthat I do not like his wife.When Jim was still an obscure young lawyer, struggling to make his wayin New York, his career was suddenly advanced by a brilliant marriage.Genevieve Whitney was the only daughter of a distinguished man. Hermarriage with young Burden was the subject of sharp comment at the time.It was said she had been brutally jilted by her cousin, Rutland Whitney,and that she married this unknown man from the West out of bravado. Shewas a restless, headstrong girl, even then, who liked to astonishher friends. Later, when I knew her, she was always doing somethingunexpected. She gave one of her town houses for a Suffrage headquarters,produced one of her own plays at the Princess Theater, was arrestedfor picketing during a garment-makers'' strike, etc. I am never able tobelieve that she has much feeling for the causes to which she lends hername and her fleeting interest. She is handsome, energetic, executive,but to me she seems unimpressionable and temperamentally incapable ofenthusiasm. Her husband''s quiet tastes irritate her, I think, and shefinds it worth while to play the patroness to a group of young poets andpainters of advanced ideas and mediocre ability. She has her own fortuneand lives her own life. For some reason, she wishes to remain Mrs. JamesBurden.As for Jim, no disappointments have been severe enough to chill hisnaturally romantic and ardent disposition. This disposition, though itoften made him seem very funny when he was a boy, has been one of thestrongest elements in his success. He loves with a personal passion thegreat country through which his railway runs and branches. His faithin it and his knowledge of it have played an important part in itsdevelopment. He is always able to raise capital for new enterprises inWyoming or Montana, and has helped young men out there to do remarkablethings in mines and timber and oil. If a young man with an idea can onceget Jim Burden''s attention, can manage to accompany him when he goes offinto the wilds hunting for lost parks or exploring new canyons, then themoney which means action is usually forthcoming. Jim is still able tolose himself in those big Western dreams.