Bored of the parties and luxuries that come with her socialite
lifestyle, Claire Boltwood longs for something more authentic in her
life. Desperate for adventure, Claire and her father decide to travel
from New York City to the Pacific Northwest in their automobile, a new
privilege enjoyed by the rich. Though he is a clever businessman,
Claire's father knows nothing about cars, so he encourages Claire to
drive, challenging the gender stereotypes of the early 20th century.
Starting in New York City, Claire and her father hit the open road,
feeling exhilarated and free. As they travel northwest, they eat food
from cuisine below their usual standards, see new sights, and face
everyday problems that people of their privilege usually do not. Among
these problems is an unexpected trouble with their car, and so the
Boltwood's are forced to stay in a small town nearby as they leave their
automobile in the hands of a mechanic named Milt Daggett. Born and
raised in the small, unassuming town, Milt is one of the few people
within the town that aspires for more in his life. But, he was caught in
a rut before he met Claire. As the two grow closer and inspire drastic
changes in the other's personality, Claire and Milt realize that the
unfortunate circumstances that led to their chance encounter might have
been the best thing to ever happen in their lives.
With surprising sentimentality and authenticity, Sinclair Lewis' Free
Air awakens a yearning in its reader's soul. Featuring detailed
descriptions of the Boltwood's travels and the people they meet, Free
Air creates a visceral reading experience. Set during the early 20th
century in various states in America, Lewis depicts themes of class,
feminism, and egalitarianism as Free Air provides an intimate look
into American culture.
This edition of Free Air by Sinclair Lewis features an eye-catching
new cover design and is printed in a modern font to cater to
contemporary audiences.
