The Hand of the Mighty, and Other Stories

A lively mix of turn‑of‑the‑century tales, this collection brings together stories first printed in popular magazines of the day. The author’s keen eye for character shines through, whether he’s sketching a bustling river town, a quiet New England village, or the rough edges of western frontier life. Each piece balances humor and pathos, inviting listeners to glimpse ordinary people confronting unexpected moments of courage or folly.

The volume opens with a warm, autobiographical sketch that offers a glimpse of the writer’s own upbringing—long train trips, river‑side adventures, and a mother’s habit of reading aloud. That personal touch sets a tone of intimacy, making the ensuing narratives feel like stories shared among friends. Listeners will enjoy the varied settings and the gentle, observational style that captures the spirit of early twentieth‑century America without demanding any prior knowledge of the plots.