The Adventures of Tom Sawyer contains stories about the naughty Tom and his friends Huckleberry Finn and Becky Thatcher. Many of the stories are from the author's own experience, with many interesting plots from children’s viewpoint. Tom Sawyer is an orphan adopted by Aunt Polly. He often goes out with friends for adventure and always loves to play tricks and pranks. He escapes punishment several times, although a little foolish and unpredictable, but also with a little wit and a sense of humor. Despite his mischievousness, Tom has an innocent heart and a strong conscience. As the novel progresses, he grew more mature and rational. He has learned to value the resources of home and community.
The novel satirizes and criticizes the hypocritical and vulgar social customs, hypocritical religious rituals and stereotypical school education in the United States, and depicts the free and lively minds of young children in a cheerful tone. It is an American literary classic, an American bestseller, and Mark Twain’s most famous work.