“American Pastoral” is a unique novel in its own way. Just as the law calls today's Russian deputies to account for their election promises, Philip Roth demands America to answer for the promises of wealth, public order and personal well-being that it issued to its citizens in the 20th century. The main character, Swede Leivow, married the beautiful Miss New Jersey, inherited his father's factory and became the owner of an old mansion in Old Rimrock. It would seem that dreams have come true, but one day the leafy American happiness suddenly turns to dust...