Hamlin Garland 
Other Main-Travelled Roads 

Hamlin Garland’s ‘Other Main-Travelled Roads’ is a collection of short stories that provide a raw and realistic portrayal of Midwestern farm life in the late 19th century. Garland’s work is characterized by its stark depiction of the harsh conditions and struggles faced by working-class farmers, showcasing themes of isolation, poverty, and the unrelenting pursuit of the American Dream. The stories are written in a straightforward, unembellished style that reflects the author’s commitment to presenting the unvarnished truth of rural existence during this time period. Garland’s literary style and content place him in the context of American literary naturalism, a movement that sought to capture life in its unadorned reality. Through his vivid descriptions and unsentimental approach, Garland sheds light on the hardships and resilience of the Midwestern farmer. ‘Other Main-Travelled Roads’ is a must-read for those interested in a poignant and authentic portrayal of life in the American heartland during the late 1800s.