by Paul M. Zall
First published 1985
Renowned humorist Mark Twain was also a complex, multifaceted man. "Mark Twain Laughing" dives into the life and mind of this American icon, tracing his evolution from a struggling young writer to a celebrated raconteur. Zall's engaging biography showcases Twain's boundless creativity, acerbic wit, and deep empathy - qualities that defined his iconic literary works and enduring legacy. Through vivid anecdotes and sharp insights, readers witness Twain's transformation from a Mississippi riverboat pilot to a global celebrity, whose stinging satires and heartfelt tales continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Genres: biography, american-fiction, humor, 20th-century, american, 19th-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: celebrity, transformation
Setting: Mississippi
Period: 19th-Century, 20th-Century
199 pages · Hardcover · University of Tennessee Press