| Summary: | Realistic Novel Gains In Favor. Realistic Novel Gains In Favor. Spokane readers are shifting their interest from mad realism to the "realistic" with historical novels increasingly more popular, a survey of the libraries and book stores revealed. "Gone With the Wind" has been a remarkably popular novel and promises to continue so for the fall. "There seems to be a steady trend to historical novels," said Mrs. Gladys Puckett, city librarian. "The public is reading historical novels," according to Miss Mary Shaw of Graham's. "We've gotten away from stark realism," said Miss Mabel Collins of the Crescent. In explanation, Miss Agnes Sullivan of Graham's thought that increasing emphasis on world affairs, broader, quicker coverage of newspapers, and world-wide radio were important factors in molding this trend. The most popular sellers this fall are "Northwest Passage" by Kenneth Roberts, "And So-Victoria" by Vaughan Wilkins, and "American Dream" by Michael Foster, all historical novels. A Leading Seller. "'So Great a Man' by David Pilgrim is being highly advertised as a hopeful leading seller for this fall and continues the historical trend," Mrs. Puckett added. "In the field of nonfiction for sheer amusement people are reading 'Orchids on Your Budget' by Hillis," according to Miss Albertine Filiatrault of the Davenport book shop. In nonfiction there is a continuing emphasis on self-help themes. Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" continues everywhere popular. There is a wide interest in international affairs, along with the war theme covering Spain, China, and the World War. In poetry, Edna St. Vincent Millay's "Conversation at Midnight" holds its place at the top, cleverly depicting modern life through modern verse. In drama Clare Booth's "The Women" is much in demand. Demand For Action. As between men's and women's tastes, Miss Sullivan ventured: "There is more demand for action and less for analysis by men than by women." "Children read mostly what is picked out for them-things indorsed by the American Library association and the schools," said Mrs. Diana Hayden of Graham's. Those who yet feel romance is alive find support in Miss Filiatrault's "A lot of people still like love stories-you can't stop people from liking romance. And that is one reason 'Gone With the Wind' has been so popular." As one of the landmarks of realism, stark and bare, "Anthony Adverse" continues an excellent seller.
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