Coniston

The book Coniston by Winston Churchill. The narrative takes place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the fictitious town of Coniston which is situated in the U.S. state of New Hampshire. The clash between the rich families who run the towns economy and the working-class populace is the central theme of the book. Poor farmer Jethro Bass becomes interested in local politics and advances to become a significant political figure. Jethro gets involved in the disputes between the different groups in the town as he rises in status and power. The narrative also heavily emphasizes his relationship with his daughter Cynthia who is struggling to find her place in a culture that places a premium on power and riches above individual achievement. Churchill examines issues of social class politics and the evolution of American culture at the time throughout the whole book. The book offers understanding of the political and social dynamics of rural America at the turn of the century and is recognized as an important masterpiece of American literary realism.