Seventeen by Booth Tarkington.

fiction, comedy, society, culture · EN

Seventeen by Booth Tarkington. "Seventeen," written by Booth Tarkington and published in 1916, is a coming-of-age novel that captures the essence of adolescence through the experiences of its protagonist, William Sylvanus Baxter. As William turns seventeen, he navigates the complexities of young love, self-importance, and societal expectations in a small Midwestern town. The story is set during a summer filled with the innocence of teenage romance, highlighted by William's infatuation with a charming newcomer, Miss Pratt. Amidst humorous situations and interactions with friends and family, including the embarrassment brought on by his little sister Jane, William grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the desire to impress. The novel explores themes of maturation, obsession, and the sometimes painful realities of growing up, as William's attempts to gain Miss Pratt's attention lead to both comedic and poignant moments. Tarkington's portrayal of small-town life and the tr