James Francis Dwyer - The Citizen - Yearbook of the best American Short Stories 1915

The story depicts the arduous journey of the Russian farmer Ivan and his wife from rural Russia to freedom in America. Along their path, the inhumane system of their homeland at the time is described. And even during the crossing, the daily struggle for survival is ever-present.

The Author: James Francis Dwyer, renowned for his work in mystery, adventure, and romance, significantly impacted literature. Notably, his 1913 novel "The City of the Unseen" attracted science fiction enthusiasts, showcasing his narrative prowess. Dwyer's success peaked in the 1920s after moving to the United States, becoming one of the era's leading writers from English-speaking countries. His career boasted over 1,000 short stories, marking him as one of Australia's most prolific writers, although his fame in Australia only surged posthumously with his autobiography's publication. Despite his once considerable acclaim and being the first Australian-born millionaire writer, Dwyer's legacy had largely faded by the 20th century's end.