Our hero, Jimmy Torrance, Jr., has a hard time finding suitable employment after a brilliant (athletically, at least) college career, despite all kinds of assistance from his friends in the underworld and the wealthy and sophisticated young woman with whom he falls in love. Set in contemporary America, mostly Chicago, this 1921 short novel is one of a handful of Burroughs' works that does not take us to a fantasy or an exotic setting. (Delmar H. Dolbier)

Our hero, Jimmy Torrance, Jr., has a hard time finding suitable employment after a brilliant (athletically, at least) college career, despite all kinds of assistance from his friends in the underworld and the wealthy and sophisticated young woman with whom he falls in love. Set in contemporary America, mostly Chicago, this 1921 short novel is one of a handful of Burroughs' works that does not take us to a fantasy or an exotic setting. (Delmar H. Dolbier)

Our hero, Jimmy Torrance, Jr., has a hard time finding suitable employment after a brilliant (athletically, at least) college career, despite all kinds of assistance from his friends in the underworld and the wealthy and sophisticated young woman with whom he falls in love. Set in contemporary America, mostly Chicago, this 1921 short novel is one of a handful of Burroughs' works that does not take us to a fantasy or an exotic setting. (Delmar H. Dolbier)

O Pioneers! by Willa Cather is a profound exploration of the struggles and triumphs of immigrant farmers in the American Midwest, highlighting their deep connection to the land and the resilience of the human spirit. This timeless narrative captures themes of perseverance, community, and the transformative power of nature, making it a relevant listen for anyone grappling with the challenges of modern life. Cather's lyrical prose invites readers to reflect on their own roots and the enduring spirit of those who have forged new paths in unfamiliar territories.

Our hero, Jimmy Torrance, Jr., has a hard time finding suitable employment after a brilliant (athletically, at least) college career, despite all kinds of assistance from his friends in the underworld and the wealthy and sophisticated young woman with whom he falls in love. Set in contemporary America, mostly Chicago, this 1921 short novel is one of a handful of Burroughs' works that does not take us to a fantasy or an exotic setting. (Delmar H. Dolbier)