Booth Tarkington’s National Avenue is the third book in his 'Growth' trilogy, but you can absolutely jump right in. It’s a sharp, often funny, and ultimately poignant look at a family clinging to the past as the future barrels toward them.

The Story

The story centers on the Oliphant family, who have lived comfortably for years on the prestigious National Avenue. Mr. Oliphant is a respected businessman, and his family enjoys their place in the social order. But their world is turned upside down when new, flashier neighbors begin to move onto the street. These newcomers have different values, different styles, and a lot more obvious wealth. Suddenly, the Oliphants' solid, old-fashioned way of life feels threatened and, worse, a bit shabby. The novel follows their struggle to adapt, to maintain their dignity, and to understand their place in a neighborhood that no longer feels like theirs. It’s a battle fought over lawn parties, home renovations, and whispered gossip.

Why You Should Read It

What stunned me about this book is how modern it feels. Tarkington has this incredible eye for the tiny, telling details of social life. You’ll recognize these characters—the person who scoffs at a new trend only to secretly adopt it later, the desperate need to be seen as 'correct,' the quiet panic of being left behind. It’s not a loud, action-packed story. The tension simmers in awkward conversations and silent judgments. You watch good people make bad decisions because they’re scared, and you completely understand why. Tarkington doesn’t judge them harshly; he shows their flaws with a sort of weary affection, which makes their stumbles all the more heartbreaking.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves character-driven stories about family and society. If you enjoyed the subtle social dramas in novels by Edith Wharton or the Midwestern atmosphere of Sinclair Lewis, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s also a great pick for readers curious about early 20th-century America, not through wars or politics, but through the changing curtains in the front windows of a single street. A quiet, brilliant, and surprisingly relatable classic.