Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Author:Mark Twain, Clay Stafford, Ruth Palmer, Kathryn Knight Twain spent seven years writing HUCKLEBERRY FINN--the book Hemingway claimed is the basis for all American fiction. The story of Huck's and Jim's quest for freedom on a raft on the Mississippi provides a panoramic view of Southern society, which Twain saw as beset by greed, violence, and coldhearted brutality in the guise of virtue. At t... more »he end of the book, Huck definitively abandons the hypocrisy and can't on which he has been raised when he makes the shocking decision to go to hell rather than betray his friend Jim and send him back to slavery. The book has been banned from time to time, beginning with its publication in 1885, when it was deemed too subversive for children, until the late 20th century when, despite its compassionate attitude toward blacks and is violent denunciation of slavery, it has been branded racist because of Twain's use of dialect and "offensive" language. In addition to its message of tolerance and understanding, HUCKLEBERRY FINN continues to be read, talked about, and loved by readers of all ages because it's a cracking good coming-of-age story full of vivid characters and hilarious events --and because Twain's relentlessly clear-eyed angle of vision sees beneath the foibles and absurdities of humanity to the common ground that we all share.« less
I had read it when I was younger and wanted to read as a adult. Just wonderful Mr Twain sure knew how to write. Just picks you up and sets you down in a different time. I could feel the heat, feel the river and so enjoyed it.
While this book is considered a classic against not only slavery, but the stupidity of humanity, I'm not certain it isn't overrated. That said, Mark Twain's insightful and well-placed barbs do provide amusement and a stinging critique of society post-Civil War. I also like it just because people have tried to ban it.
I loved that we see this tale through the eyes of a young boy, complete with his speach style and outlook on the world. A good book that I would recomend to anyone interested in US history of the period, coming of age stories, or just adventure mixed with wit and humor.
Becky B. reviewed Adventures of Huckleberry Finn on
Great Characters and Great Adventure Keeps you wondering what Huck is going to do next!!! Aunt Polly tries to keep Tom in line and help Huck some too. Great Book!!!
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a sequel of sorts. First came The Adventures of Tom Sawyer which Huckleberry Finn was a character in just as Tom Sawyer was in this one. In this adventure Huckleberry runs away from his alcoholic father and along the way runs into a slave Jim, who is trying to gain his freedom. As they stop in towns along the river they always seem to run into trouble.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was more enjoyable to read on my own then it was to read for school. Huck definitely has a original imagination to get them through all the hijinks they go through.
I felt that by the Tom Sawyer showed up the book could and probably should have ended. Many of the people in the town were pretty gullible to believe Huck, Tom and other characters like the Duke or King.
An Interesting read. Not sure I understand why it is a classic except that is by Mark Twain. I could see the authors humor throughout the book, which he was known for.
Gail M. reviewed Adventures of Huckleberry Finn on
If contemporary readers can put themselves back into a different time period, this is a fascinating visit to a very different era. Twain's struggles with his contemporary social attitudes are evident throughout the book.
This is an excellent book by Mark Twain. The story delves further into the character introduced in Tom Sawyer. In Twain's impeccable way, the reader will be transported back in time to experience life on the might Mississippi. Perfect reading for children and adults.
Terror on the Seas!
A deadly sea monster, as long as aafootball field, is ramming and sinking ship. Is it a monster squid- or an enormous-horned sea unicorn? No one knows for sure.
I guess this particular story has engendered more pros and cons than other classics have. But laying all that aside, it is a great adventure with some really important thoughts. A brief biography of Samuel Clemens closes this book.
