Today in Bookish and Literary History, December 17

1901 The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter - UK

One of the best-loved children’s picture books of all time, available as a mini hardcover for little hands! A classic tale that teaches the importance of making smart decisions, this edition features restored and never-before-seen illustrations!

1925 An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser - US

Theodore Dreiser was inspired by a true story to write this novel about an ambitious, socially insecure young man who finds himself caught between two very different women—and two very different visions of what his life could be. Clyde Griffiths was born poor and is poorly educated, but his prospects begin to improve when he is offered a job by a wealthy uncle who owns a shirt factory. Soon he achieves a managerial position, and despite being warned to stay away from the women he manages, he becomes involved with Roberta, a poor factory worker who falls in love with him. At the same time, he catches the eye of Sondra, the glamorous socialite daughter of another factory owner, and begins neglecting his lover to court her. When Roberta confronts Clyde with her pregnancy, Clyde's hopes of marrying Sondra are threatened, and he conceives a desperate plan to preserve his dream.