Reading and Interpreting the Works of Mark Twain

Lit Crit Guides

by Spring Hermann

The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug. Observations like this make Mark Twain the most widely read and quoted American author. This guide utilizes quotes, excerpts, biographical information, and critical analysis in examining Twains vast output of novels, personal memoirs, social criticisms, and essays, both serious and hilarious. It also demonstrates how Twain carefully stored his life experiences in his mind, then mined and refined them years later, to bring us the timeless lessons he had learned. In all his works, students will find the underlying fears, disappointments, hopes and dreams he held for Americaand he always found the right words to tell us.

144 pages, Library Binding

Published July 30, 2017

About the author

My first interest in life was the theatre. I earned a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University in Theatre and Literature, and a Master of Arts from Central Connecticut State University in Literature. I worked as a costumer and prop mistress at theatres in St. Louis, Missouri; Interlaken, Michigan; Chatauqua, New York; Mankato, Minnesota; and others.

After I had my two daughters, I wanted a more "stay at home" activity - and decided to try writing. My first novel was for adults and came out in 1983. I've been writing ever since. Besides two nonfiction subscription works, all other books have been for young readers. I also worked for years as a public relations writer for several great nonprofit companies.

Now I am also trying to "get back to where I started," and work in youth theatre - but as a playwright. Since my daughters are grown and my husband retired, I am free to pursue that dream.