Net Worth →
Books Like…

The Bostonians: Book Guide, Author and Facts

The Bostonians by Henry James — plot, author, genre and where to read, in one evergreen guide.

By the Pop Culture Files editorial team3 min read✓ Fact-checked
The Bostonians book cover
Cover via OpenLibrary · OpenLibrary

First published in 1886, The Bostonians is one of James' wittiest social satires. It begins with the arrival in Boston of Basil Ransom, in search of a career. The book turns on the relationship between Ransom, a conservative civil war veteran, his feminist cousin Olive Chancellor, and Verena Tarrant, a newcomer to their circle whose affections are sought by both Olive and Basil.James' ambivalence towards the reformist movement is made plain in this novel, which is crowded with eccentric and colourful characters. The narrative moves us in turns to sneer at the Boston reformers and to sympathise with Olive as she struggles to keep the reformist flame burning in her protege's heart.

Quick facts about The Bostonians

  • Title: The Bostonians
  • Author: Henry James
  • First published: 1885
  • Genre: open library staff picks, social life and customs, suffrage
  • OpenLibrary ID: OL276321W

Where to read The Bostonians

The Bostonians by Henry James is widely available in print, ebook and audiobook editions from major retailers and libraries.

Compiled from public OpenLibrary data. Availability and details can change over time.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Bostonians about?

First published in 1886, The Bostonians is one of James' wittiest social satires.

Who wrote The Bostonians?

The Bostonians was written by Henry James.

When was The Bostonians published?

The Bostonians was first published in 1885.

Sources

More in Books & Authors