{"product_id":"prairie-avenue-9781162774374","title":"Prairie Avenue","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrairie Avenue: A Historical Fiction Novel Set in Chicago's Gilded Age\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePrairie Avenue is a historical fiction novel by Arthur Meeker that transports readers to Chicago's legendary \"Millionaire's Row\" during the late 1800s and early 1900s. This compelling narrative follows the interconnected lives of Chicago's most prominent families—the McCormicks, the Fields, and the Armours—as they navigate the social complexities and economic transformations of the Gilded Age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Story and Setting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSet on Prairie Avenue, the street synonymous with wealth and prestige in turn-of-the-century Chicago, this novel captures the essence of an era marked by industrial expansion and the emergence of America's middle class. Meeker expertly weaves together the personal struggles and triumphs of multiple families, creating a rich tapestry of life during this transformative period in American history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe McCormick family confronts profound grief following the death of their daughter while navigating marital tensions. The Fields family faces the challenges of raising a daughter with a disability, providing an intimate look at family dynamics during this era. Through these personal narratives, Meeker explores themes of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of the American dream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHistorical Authenticity and Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeeker's attention to period detail brings Chicago's Gilded Age to life. The novel features vivid descriptions of architecture, fashion, and cultural events that defined the era. The narrative incorporates significant historical moments, including the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893, grounding the fictional story in real historical context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis book examines the social and economic dynamics that shaped America during the Industrial Revolution, offering readers insight into how industry titans built their fortunes and influenced the development of modern Chicago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout This Edition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePrairie Avenue offers readers a captivating journey into Chicago's past, combining historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. This novel appeals to fans of historical fiction, Chicago history enthusiasts, and readers interested in the Gilded Age period of American history.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kessinger Publishing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50680837996818,"sku":"9781162774374","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_f10a1206-0289-421c-ae21-bb7ea3841edc.jpg?v=1733943636","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/prairie-avenue-9781162774374","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}