Elmer Gantry Most books are rubbish. Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis is a great book because it has credibility, a timeless theme, and contains the necessary action. Any book that can do that is a great book. Elmer Gantry's credibility is something that will keep this book eternally great. While the actual time period is dated, the plot is not. Many people can identify with the different characters in the book. Elmer is a pompous football player who thinks he is superior to any religion. However, people try and convert it successfully. He initially tries to please two masters: his vices and God. Ultimately he makes the decision to live according to God, but of course he will have fun with his old vices from time to time, especially adultery. Most people know someone who is like that and somehow still manages, even if they shouldn't have. Although Elmer is more extreme than people the reader is likely to know, he is still a very believable character. Another thing that makes this novel timeless is that it contains the action necessary to attract the reader who just wants entertainment. Elmer often gets into arguments that will keep the reader on the edge of their seats. He will have to face situations that most would run from, but he will also have moments where he backs down from a fight, such as when Brother Naylor and Brother Bains confront him about "messing around" with Lulu. It also has enough opportunities for the modern person. think about sex even if it's not graphic...