Bret Harte 
Urban Sketches 

Bret Harte’s 'Urban Sketches’ is a collection of short stories that provide a vivid portrayal of life in the bustling cities of America during the mid-19th century. Harte’s writing style is characterized by its attention to detail, vivid imagery, and social commentary on the rapidly changing urban landscape. Each story transports the reader to a different corner of the city, offering glimpses into the lives of its diverse inhabitants and the struggles they face in their daily lives. The book not only serves as a literary portrait of the time but also as a mirror reflecting the social and cultural issues of the era. The stories are written with a combination of humor, irony, and empathy that makes them both engaging and thought-provoking. 'Urban Sketches’ is a valuable piece of American literature that captures the spirit of urban life in the 19th century with unparalleled authenticity.