The first masterpiece of the American naturalistic movement, "Sister Carrie" made its controversial debut in 1900. Condemned for its alleged immorality, the novel traces the fortunes of a small-town girl's rise from obscurity to fame. The first masterpiece of the American naturalistic movement, "Sister Carrie" made its controversial debut in 1900. Condemned for its alleged immorality, the novel traces the fortunes of a small-town girl's rise from obscurity to fame.