The Country of the Pointed Firs (1896) is Sarah Orne Jewett's most popular book. In its elegantly constructed sketches, a worldly, anonymous writer spends the summer in a tiny Maine fishing village where she hopes to find peace and solitude. As she gains the acceptance and trust of her hosts, the community's power and complexity are slowly revealed. While its episodes portray the difficulty and loneliness of rural life, they also display its dignity and strength, particularly as expressed in the bonds between women: mothers, daughters, and friends. Written during a time of rapid change and national conflict, surprisingly modern in its treatment of character and its literary techniques, The Country of the Pointed Firs addresses the delicate and uncertain art of understanding others.

Contents:
Preface by Willa Cather
The Country of the Pointed Firs
"A White Heron"
"The Dulham Ladies"
"Miss Tempy's Watchers"
"Going to Shrewsbury"
"The Town Poor"
"The Hiltons' Holiday"
"The Only Rose"
"The Guests of Mrs. Timms"
"The Flight of Betsey Lane"
"Martha's Lady"
"The Queen's Twin"
"Aunt Cynthy Dallett"
"A Dunnet Shepherdess"
"William's Wedding"

The 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature a limited edition collection is published under the auspices of The American Revolution Bicentennial Administration