They are all here, and of varying quality, but necessary for the enjoyment of the master. ( )

I know I read the complete short stories a very long time ago for my sophomore year English paper and some had stuck but it was a great joy to read them all again. They are arranged chronologically and it really showed the increasingly cynical and barbed wit but all are so fantastic. I may need to read some of the novels and travel books now.

Life itself is only a vision, a dream.

(715)

“Where is this John Wilson Mackenzie?” said he.

“Dead.”

“When did he die?”

“He didn’t die at all – he was killed.”

“How?”

“Tomahawked.”

“Who tomahawked him?”

“Why, an Indian, of course. You didn’t suppose it was the superintendent of a Sunday-school, did you?”

(50) ( )

4/14/22

This was a great collection. Mark Twain's prowess with the written word is unparalleled during his period in American literature. The stories resonate with meaning, at times simplicity, power, originality, and perfected description and dialogue. Although there is certain padding in some, and others miss their mark, the overall collection is very strong and worth reading. The Mysterious Stranger, the final story in the collection, is my favorite.

4 stars-- well worth the read. ( )