Edna Ferber's 'Come and Get It,' published in 1935, burst onto the American literary scene amidst the Great Depression, offering readers a captivating escape into the lavish, yet complex, world of Wisconsin’s timber barons. This sprawling family saga quickly cemented its place as a national bestseller, captivating a public hungry for stories of ambition, struggle, and the enduring human spirit. Its immediate popularity wasn't merely due to Ferber's established reputation as a master storyteller; the novel tapped into a collective fascination with American industrial dynasties and the dramatic lives shaped by immense wealth and relentless pursuit of power, making it a significant cultural touchstone of its era.
What it is
'Come and Get It' is a sweeping multi-generational novel charting the rise and fall of the Schwellenbach family, prominent figures in Wisconsin's booming lumber industry. At its heart is August Schwellenbach, a rough-hewn, ambitious Swedish immigrant who builds a vast fortune but struggles to find genuine happiness. The narrative follows his son, Barney, whose refined tastes clash with his father's rugged sensibilities, and later, Barney's daughter, Lotta, a spirited and modern woman who navigates love, tradition, and personal freedom amidst the shifting social landscape. Ferber masterfully intertwines themes of class struggle, the corrupting influence of wealth, the clash between Old World values and new American ideals, and the relentless march of progress, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Northwoods.
How it came to be
Edna Ferber, renowned for her epic American sagas like 'Show Boat' and 'Cimarron,' meticulously researched 'Come and Get It.' Her inspiration stemmed from a deep interest in the history of the American Midwest and the often-brutal realities of the logging industry. Ferber immersed herself in the culture of Wisconsin’s timber country, conducting extensive interviews and absorbing the regional dialect and customs, much as she did for her other historical novels. This commitment to authenticity allowed her to craft a narrative rich in detail and genuine characterization. Writing during the economic hardship of the 1930s, Ferber aimed to capture a powerful, ambitious period of American enterprise, a contrast to the prevailing anxieties, publishing it with Doubleday, Doran & Company, her long-standing publisher, known for her earlier successes.
How many it sold
Upon its release in 1935, 'Come and Get It' swiftly climbed the bestseller charts, solidifying Edna Ferber's status as one of America's most popular authors. It was recognized by Publishers Weekly as the ninth best-selling novel of 1935, a remarkable achievement in a competitive market. Historical records indicate the book sold approximately 170,000 copies in its initial year, a significant figure for the Depression era. Its robust sales reflect not only Ferber's established readership but also the novel's broad appeal to a public seeking engaging narratives. The book’s success led to multiple printings, and it remained a popular library choice for years, demonstrating its enduring commercial viability beyond the initial publication surge.
Why it resonated
'Come and Get It' resonated deeply with the American public for several compelling reasons. During the Great Depression, stories of self-made men, immense wealth, and the dramatic complexities of life offered both escapism and a reflection on societal values. The novel's themes of ambition, the struggle between generations, and the elusive nature of happiness struck a chord. Critics praised Ferber's robust storytelling, vivid characterizations, and detailed depiction of a vanishing American frontier. Readers were drawn to the epic scope and emotional depth, seeing in the Schwellenbach family's triumphs and failures echoes of their own national narrative—a tale of relentless progress often fraught with personal cost and moral compromise.
Impact today
The legacy of 'Come and Get It' continues to reverberate, marking its place as a significant work within American literature and a testament to Edna Ferber's skill as a novelist. Its immediate success led to a major film adaptation in 1936, directed by Hollywood legends Howard Hawks and William Wyler, starring Edward Arnold and Frances Farmer, which further cemented its place in popular culture. Today, the novel is remembered as a classic American saga, offering insight into early 20th-century industrialism and social dynamics. While perhaps overshadowed by 'Show Boat' or 'Giant,' it remains a powerful example of Ferber's ability to craft sweeping narratives that explore the grand ambitions and personal sacrifices defining the American experience, inspiring subsequent authors in the historical fiction genre.
Historical content researched and generated by Gemini 2.5 Pro.