Mark Twain's Letters - Volume 1 (1853-1866) is a collection of over 300 letters written by Mark Twain during the years 1853 to 1866. This period was a time of great personal and professional growth for Twain. He left his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri, to become a journeyman printer, traveled extensively throughout the United States, and began to develop his skills as a writer and humorist.

The letters in this volume offer a unique and intimate glimpse into Twain's life and work during this important period. Twain writes about his family, his friends, his travels, and his writing. He also shares his thoughts on a wide range of topics, including politics, religion, and society.