The Prince of Graustark

"The Prince of Graustark" by George Barr McCutcheon is a presumed early 20th-century novel that follows the Blithers family, a rich couple determined to find Maud, their daughter, a husband with a noble title. Their ambitions kick into high gear with the arrival of a prince from Graustark, as they see a chance to climb the social ladder and maybe even arrange a royal wedding. The book starts with the Blithers deep in talks about Maud's future, weighing the pros and cons of marrying her into nobility. Their conversation shows how power works in their family, with Mr. Blithers being the boss and Mrs. Blithers pulling strings in secret. The beginning is funny as the couple chases their dreams, and Prince Robin's entrance suggests love stories and awkward social moments are on the way, probably mixing romance, jokes, and thoughts on society.