The Sketch Book : Kessinger Publishing : 9781162629728 : 116262972X : 10 Sep 2010 : The Sketch Book is a collection of short stories and essays written by American author Washington Irving. The book was first published in 1819 and has since become a classic in American literature. The collection includes some of Irving's most famous works, such as ""Rip Van Winkle"" and ""The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."" The stories in The Sketch Book are set in both America and Europe and explore themes such as love, friendship, and the supernatural. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part containing the stories set in America and the second part containing the stories set in Europe. In addition to the short stories, The Sketch Book also includes essays and observations on various subjects, including art, literature, and travel. Irving's writing style is known for its humor, wit, and vivid descriptions of the settings and characters. Overall, The Sketch Book is a timeless collection of s