Buying a Horse

Name: Buying a Horse
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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American Literature Humour

About This Book

A man resolves to buy a horse after moving to the country and seeks practical guidance from a friend, then from dealers who parade a steady procession of unsuitable animals. He receives tips about conformation and price but confronts a comic marketplace of oversized 'pony' mounts, skittish or lame specimens, evasive ownership stories, and cheerful misrepresentations. Repeated trials and inspections expose common defects and the social rituals of bargaining, leaving him both amused and wary as he learns to read a horse and the mixture of candor and mystery that colors the trade.

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.