Title: The Diaries of Adam and Eve
Author: Mark Twain
First published January 1, 1906
95 pages, Paperback
Rating: 3.88
Overview
In Mark Twain’s hilarious take on the biblical story, we get a glimpse into the diaries of the first man and woman. Adam is confused by the new creature, Eve, who talks and does things he would never dream of.
While Adam prefers to stay inside during foggy mornings, Eve embraces all the elements and introduces new ideas to their garden home. Twain’s clever “he said/she said” narrative provides a comedic look at biblical events while also making a compelling case for gender equality.
The Diaries of Adam and Eve is a delightful read that will leave you laughing and pondering important social issues.
About the Author
Mark Twain, the pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was a renowned American author and humorist. He is best known for his novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876) and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1885), which has been dubbed as “the Great American Novel.”
Twain grew up in Hannibal, Missouri, which would later serve as a backdrop for Huckleberry Finn and worked as an apprentice with a printer. He subsequently worked as a typesetter and contributed articles to his older brother’s newspaper.
After working as a printer in various cities, he became a skilled riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River before eventually heading west to join his brother. Although he failed at gold mining, he found his calling in journalism.
As a reporter, he penned a humorous story called “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” which became immensely popular and brought him nationwide recognition. His travelogues were also well-received.
Twain’s wit and satire earned him praise from critics and peers, and he went on to achieve great success as a writer and public speaker. He was a friend to presidents, artists, industrialists, and even European royalty.
However, he was not financially savvy, and despite earning a lot of money from his writings and lectures, he squandered it on various ventures, particularly the Paige Compositor, and eventually had to declare bankruptcy. With the help of Henry Huttleston Rogers, he eventually overcame his financial difficulties.
Twain worked tirelessly to ensure that all of his creditors were paid in full, even though his bankruptcy had relieved him of the legal obligation.
Twain was born during a visit by Halley’s Comet and died on its return. He is widely regarded as the “greatest American humorist of his age” and has been called “the father of American literature.”
Editoral Review
The Diaries of Adam and Eve by Mark Twain is a classic satirical novel first published on January 1, 1906. The book explores the biblical story of Adam and Eve, retelling it through the titular characters’ diaries.
The book combines humor, wit, and social commentary to create a thought-provoking and entertaining piece of literature that has stood the test of time. Mark Twain’s signature style of satirical humor is on full display in this book.
The narrative draws upon cultural and biblical references to create a rich tapestry of storytelling. The book is split into two parts, with the first half being told from Adam’s perspective, and the second part being told from Eve’s point of view.
Through these differing perspectives, the characters’ personalities are fully realized, creating a balance in the story. Readers follow Adam and Eve as they navigate their way through the Garden of Eden, struggling to understand each other and the world around them.
Twain creates an endearing and at times relatable depiction of the first man and woman on earth, revealing their faults and peculiarities while also portraying them as sympathetic protagonists. The book offers social commentary without being preachy, commentating on the nature of gender roles and the evolution of human society.
The text covers themes such as language acquisition, prejudice, and the human condition, offering insights beyond the scope of the bible story it draws upon. The pacing of the book is one of its strengths, with Twain expertly controlling the narrative’s flow.
The book is a quick read but remains engaging and entertaining throughout. The vivid descriptions and witty dialogue make for a thoroughly enjoyable experience, even for readers who may not be familiar with the bible story that the book is based upon.
The Diaries of Adam and Eve is a great book, but it is not without its flaws. The book’s humor may not be for everyone, and readers looking for a more serious philosophical discussion may be disappointed.
However, the book must be judged within the context of its time, and its lighthearted tone is reflective of the humor of the era. Overall, The Diaries of Adam and Eve is a witty and insightful read that remains relevant today.
The book’s commentary on gender roles and society’s evolution in a lighthearted tone provides a fresh perspective that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is an excellent example of Twain’s signature writing style and is a must-read for any fan of classic literature.
The Washington Post gives it 4 out of 5 stars.
