Martin Eden

Smitten with a cultivated young woman, a sailor determines to better himself. London's semi-autobiographical novel offers a thought-provoking study of ambition, highlighted by memorable characters and a compelling narrative.

Novelist, journalist, and social activist Jack London (1876-1916) rose from abject poverty to international fame. The bestselling, highest-paid, and most popular author of his era, London created a substantial body of work in his short life, drawing upon his experiences as a cannery worker, sailor, railroad hobo, and prospector.