AustLit

The series presents accessible readings of major works of contemporary literature in English for schools and universities by specialists in the respective fields. All those seeking an introduction to or further inspiration on specific texts and their authors as well as those in need of a comprehensive, substantial survey of writings in English should profit from this book. The choice of some dozens of texts for each of the genres - in the present case the novel - is based on the teaching experience of the book's editors and contributors, but also reflects their individual preferences. The comprehensively structured articles begin with a short introduction to the author's biography, the text's generic traditions and historical contexts, followed by discussions of its innovative quality and intertextual aspects. A plot synopsis and an analysis of a key scene/chapter are also included, leading to an interpretation that focuses on the text's main issues. Articles conclude with suggestions on teaching activities and a list of up-to-date secondary sources.

The current volume in two parts provides new material for the study of the novel and offers readings of 30 individual works, highlighting the diversity of the contemporary novel in English across the world. The editors and contributors hope to transmit some of the enthusiasm novels have always inspired in them.

(Publishers website, sighted 31/03/09)