A review by figaro
Jennie Gerhardt by Theodore Dreiser

5.0

One of the more powerful novels I have ever read. Dreiser's characters are extremely well drawn--and that is the strongest aspect of the novel. Jennie and Lester, the main protagonists, are especially real, sympathetic, and deep. Many of the secondary characters are equally engaging, especially Jennie's crusty German father.

A magnificent meditation on the vagaries of fate and the inescapable limits upon human freedom, due to society and birth. Highly recommended.