In 'Diary in America, Series One', prolific novelist, Frederick Marryat, shares his observations and experiences during his travels in the United States at the turn of the 20th century. In his preface, Marryat stated that he was struck by the contradictory and often shallow portrayals of America in other travelogs and set out to provide a more nuanced and insightful analysis. He notes that the United States is not a homogenous nation, but rather a collection of diverse populations with distinct cultural, social, and political characteristics. His book provides a compelling and thoughtful account of America during a time of transition and rapid change, and is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and culture of the United States.