The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, published in 1876, is a coming-of-age novel that follows the mischievous and adventurous young Tom Sawyer, growing up along the Mississippi River. Tom gets into various escapades with his friends, including his best friend Huck Finn, while dealing with school, love, and the challenges of life. The novel explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the complexities of youth, all with humor and wit. Tom's adventures, such as treasure hunts and confrontations with pirates, have made the book a beloved classic of American literature.