Mark Twain's The $30,000 Bequest, and Other Stories is a collection that shows off his incredible range, from biting satire to pure, tall-tale fun. The title story is the star, but the supporting acts are just as entertaining.

The Story

The main tale, 'The $30,000 Bequest,' centers on Saladin and Electra Foster, a contented middle-class couple. Their world is turned upside down when they get a letter saying a relative will leave them a huge sum of money—but only after he passes away. Instead of continuing their peaceful life, they become obsessed. They start mentally spending the money, investing in imaginary schemes, and arguing over a fortune they may never see. Twain masterfully charts how this phantom wealth poisons their happiness, turning simple, good people into anxious, greedy dreamers.

Why You Should Read It

This story is funny, but it's the kind of funny that sticks with you. Twain isn't just making jokes; he's holding up a mirror. Have you ever caught yourself planning what you'd do if you won the lottery? That's exactly what the Fosters do, and watching it play out is both comic and tragic. The other stories in the book are a great bonus—you get everything from clever social commentary to outright absurd frontier yarns. It's a perfect sampler of why Twain remains America's greatest humorist.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves classic American humor with a sharp edge. If you enjoy stories that make you laugh while making a really good point about people, you'll love this. It's also a great, bite-sized introduction to Twain if his longer novels seem daunting. A truly enjoyable and thought-provoking read from start to finish.