This book in the Snapshots: Images of People and Places in History series introduces young readers to the famous writer, comedian, world traveler and lecturer. This poor boy born Sam Clemens grew up to write books that changed literature in America and around the world. Celebrated around the world for his humorous writings, Mark Twain often had little to laugh about in his life. He was plagued by financial difficulties, and his wife and three of his children all died before him. Despite these setbacks, he maintained the broadly appealing sense of humor that made him the first American star. From his Mississippi boyhood, through the Civil War, his years of fame following the publication of "Huckleberry Finn," and his business reversals and family tragedies, Mark Twain's story is a fascinating trip through a changing United States. Includes many photos, reproductions of contemporary art and artifacts, newspaper excerpts, a timeline of Twain's life, an index and a list of places to visit.