The Leatherwood God

Name: The Leatherwood God
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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American Literature Novels

About This Book

A charismatic itinerant preacher arrives in a frontier settlement and quickly enthralls residents with theatrical sermons, scripture recitations, and revival fervor. He lodges with a reserved farmer and his daughter, unsettling social hierarchies as neighbors vie for his favor and suspicion grows. Through displays of authority, personal persuasion, and theatrical piety, he reshapes the town’s spiritual life while provoking rivalry, moral debate, and personal crises. The narrative traces how community loyalty, credulity, and ambition interact under religious excitement, examining tensions between sincere belief and manipulation and the private costs of public devotion.

About the Author

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.