John Smith, U.S.A.

"John Smith, U.S.A." by Eugene Field is a mix of funny stories and poems from the past. It’s like a peek into American life as seen through the eyes of someone just like anyone else, a regular "John Smith." The book’s collection of different writings imagines the everyday American, finding humor and heart in stories and verses about home and what it means to belong. It begins with a man in London, missing home after seeing "John Smith, U.S.A." in a guest book, which makes him think about all the different people who could have that name back in America. This kicks off a series of reflections on the many faces and experiences that make up the American identity. The work paints a lively picture of the U.S. through its people, their quirks, and the places they call home, all while making you laugh and think.