So Big by Edna Ferber (1924)

Name: So Big
Author: Edna Ferber

"So Big" by Edna Ferber follows the life of Selina DeJong, a strong-willed woman who grows up in a Dutch farming community near Chicago. The story begins with her childhood, where she is affectionately nicknamed "So Big" by her mother, Selina Peake, who is a hardworking vegetable peddler. Selina's father, a gambler, leaves her a small inheritance after his untimely death, prompting her to seek independence. As Selina navigates her way through life, she becomes a schoolteacher in a rural area, where she encounters the challenges of her profession and the complexities of her relationships. Her ambition and desire for a better life drive her to pursue opportunities beyond her humble beginnings, yet she grapples with the expectations of society and her own aspirations. The novel explores themes of ambition, identity, and the struggle between personal desires and societal roles. Selina's journey reflects the broader American experience of striving for success and the sacrifices that come with it. Ultimately, "So Big" is a poignant examination of a woman's quest for fulfillment in a world that often limits her potential.

By Edna Ferber · First published 1924 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Historical Fiction · 21 chapters · 106,491 words

First lines

Until he was almost ten the name stuck to him. He had literally to fight his way free of it. From So Big (of fond and infantile derivation) it had been condensed into Sobig. And Sobig DeJong, in all its consonantal disharmony, he had remained until he was a ten-year-old schoolboy in that incredibly Dutch district southwest of Chicago known first as New Holland and later as High Prairie. At ten, by dint of fists, teeth, copper-toed boots, and temper, he earned the right to be called by his real name, Dirk DeJong. Now and then, of course, the nickname bobbed up and had to be subdued in a brief and bitter skirmish. His mother, with whom the name had originated, was the worst offender. When she lapsed he did not, naturally, use schoolyard tactics on her. But he sulked and glowered portentously and refused to answer, though her tone, when she called him So Big, would have melted the heart of any but that natural savage, a boy of ten.

What this Textopian page supports

So Big is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edna Ferber, dated 1924 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Edna Ferber
Date: 1924 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Historical Fiction, Social Commentary, Women's Fiction
Length: 106,491 words
Structure: 21 chapters, 1,610 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Edna Ferber fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The novel explores complex themes of ambition, identity, and the human experience through rich character development and prose.
Coming-of-Age — The protagonist's journey reflects personal growth and self-discovery against the backdrop of societal expectations.
Historical Fiction — Set in the early 20th century, the narrative provides insights into the cultural and economic landscape of the time.
Social Commentary — The book critiques social norms and class structures, particularly in relation to the American Dream.