"The Portland Sketch Book" edited by Ann S. Stephens is a collection of literary works produced by authors connected to Portland, Maine, written in the early 19th century. The anthology aims to showcase original writings from various Portland authors, presenting a diverse array of styles and themes reflecting life in and around the Portland area. Among the contributors are notable figures such as Henry W. Longfellow and N. P. Willis. The opening of "The Portland Sketch Book" consists of a preface that outlines the editor's intentions behind the collection. It emphasizes the unique literary contributions of Portland authors and discusses the challenges faced in gathering original materials for the anthology. The preface provides insight into the rich literary heritage of Portland while also listing several contributors and introducing the themes that will be explored throughout the collection. The book sets the stage for a journey through the imaginations and experiences of those who have called Portland their home, promising an engaging read for those interested in regional literature. (This is an automatically generated summary.)