The Journal of Arthur Stirling (The Valley of the Shadow) is very (for it's time) unique and very well written piece of literature. It seems at times, a somewhat dark and melancholy story; the story of a failing writer as he riddles himself into oblivion.

Upton Sinclair, the faithful writer and introductory speaker, delivers a full range of thoughts and imaginations; all the time delivering a somewhat brief story and imagination with commenting on the side. The writing is very good; very Sinclair.

However, the downer side to this review would have to be the predictability of the "initial-plot", which never seems to satisfies you in the end. "Characters" are self-referencing at times and the story goes into unrealistic phases throughout.

Lastly, I most say, The Journal of Arthur Stirling (The Valley of the Shadow) is a must read at any pace; (sometimes) brilliant writing and a lightly underlined socialist narration throughout.