The Rise of Silas Lapham

William Dean Howells

⏱ 7 minAmerican classic

A rough, self-made Vermont farmer grown rich on mineral paint tries to climb into refined Boston society, and faces the moral test that gives the book its double-edged title: as his fortune crumbles, his true rise turns out to be his fall, choosing honour over wealth. Howells's landmark of American realism.

Listen to the whole of The Rise of Silas Lapham in about 7 minutes — professionally narrated, with Apple-Music-style synced subtitles. One book free every day; Folio Premium unlocks the entire library.