Henry James, hailed as a master of American literary realism, was born in New York City on April 15, 1843. Following in the footsteps of his intellectual father, James published his first short story at age 21. He would go on to pen many fictional novels, biographies, travel books, works of criticism, and even plays.
After traveling throughout Europe, James ultimately decided to settle in England in 1876. This inspired him to write his later works about his unique views on the interaction between Americans and Europeans. To hear a novel about the downfall of a young American girl thrust into European society, you should listen to The Portrait of a Lady on audio download.
James was also notable for being a strong advocate of making novels as true to everyday life and human mentality as possible. To hear a spooky work of nineteenth century psychological realism, you should download The Turn of the Screw. If you would rather hear an enjoyable novella about the quintessential American girl listen to his audio book Daisy Miller.
After suffering a stroke, Henry James ultimately died at age 72 and his ashes are now at Cambridge, Massachusetts. He left behind a legacy of classic works which you can now listen to and enjoy.