The Portable Jack London (Portable Library) (Paperback)

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Editorial Reviews

Product Description

This collection of the writings of Jack London includes the complete novel of "The Call of the Wild", and short stories - "In a Far Country", "To Build a Fire", "The Strength of the Strong" and "The Water Baby", as well as journalism, political writings, literary criticism and selected letters.

Product Details

• Paperback: 608 pages
• Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics) (July 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0140179690
• ISBN-13: 978-0140179699
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #117,529 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Desert Island" London, September 24, 2006

By	Karl Janssen (Olathe, KS United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I'm a big fan of London, and have (so far) read probably 2/3 of his published work. I always prefer, when possible, to read his stories in their original collected volumes, rather than in the many "greatest hits" collections of his work. This volume is the exception to that rule. Earle Labor, a renowned London scholar, has put together the ultimate "desert island" volume of London's work. All of the best stories are here, as well as an excellent collection of his non-fiction writing, letters, and biographical material. The Call of the Wild is also included in its entirety. Unfortunately, other excellent novels are not represented here, but that's understandable due to space concerns. Labor provides a detailed chronology of London's life, and an introductory essay that puts these varied works into context. The result is not merely a showcase of London's best work, but a volume that gives an excellent overview of the man's life, the stages in his literary career, and the development of his politics and philosophy. For diehard London fans, if you can only fit one book in your carry-on bag, this is a great volume to have with you. For those who have never read London before, this book makes a great introduction to the man and his art.

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A new dimension to London, May 9, 2000

By	D. Becker (Brooklyn, NY) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I first read this collection about two years ago and still go back to selected works from time to time. If all you have read by London is "The Call of The Wild", then you have not been exposed to the depth of his writing.

Stories like "A piece of steak" and the more popular "To build a fire" show London's ability to highlight the human spirit. "Strength of the strong" has deep political connotations and probably inspired "Animal Farm" by George Orwell, a contemporary of London.

There are really so many great stories in this collection. I advise anyone to explore the work of Jack London further.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars American Experiences, March 12, 2005

By	Z. Blume (St. Louis, MO United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is an exceptional collection of short stories, non-fiction and letters. Though London is best known for his arctic adventure stories (many of his best are found in this book), the breadth of topics about which he wrote is extensive and that is demonstrated here. The things that ties all the writing together, however, are excellent writing, passion, ferocity, intelligence and a social conscience. London had many interests and was a prolific writer and this book captures his talents better than any I've seen. I would highly recommend the collection to any one who likes London, short stories, good writing or American history (since his stories capture many aspects of America in the early 20th century). This is an excellent book and I would highly recommend it.