American Dreams Summary
John Jakes

American Dreams Summary

Fritzi Crown, one of the leading characters of the novel, states the basic theme of American Dreams. She contrasts her childhood dreams of becoming a dramatic Shakespearean actress on Broadway with her successful career as a slapstick comedienne in the movies: Unfulfilled dreams disappeared, rucked away in some ghostly bureau drawer like last year's unwearable style—mementos of what might or should have been. Sometimes dreams changed. . . .Her dream had come true in a way she couldn't have imagined a few years ago.

In achieving her dream of becoming an actress, Fritzi adapts to social and technological changes, even emotional losses— estrangement from her father and the death of her lover. The result is fame, adventure and the enrichment of other people's lives through comedy and laughter.

Carl's dreams of adventure and fame also evolve. He discovers that racing and flying for excitement and the adulation...

(read more from the Short Guide)