In Theodore Dreiser's novel 'Sister Carrie,' readers are taken on a journey through the trials and tribulations of a young woman's pursuit of success and fulfillment in the bustling city of Chicago during the late 19th century. Dreiser's naturalistic writing style, characterized by its focus on the raw and unvarnished reality of urban life, provides a stark and honest portrayal of Carrie's struggle for self-actualization amidst societal constraints and personal desires. The novel's exploration of class dynamics, gender roles, and the allure of materialism offers readers a glimpse into the complexities of the American dream and the sacrifices it often demands.