A Frank Waters reader

Library Journal

The author of 27 works of fiction and nonfiction, Waters (1902-95) is best remembered for his depiction of Native Americans and the American Southwest. Editor Lyon (The Literary West: An Anthology of Western American Literature) here presents Waters's best writing, including chapters from 14 of his books, from Fever Pitch (1930) to his posthumous Of Time and Change: A Memoir (1998). Waters is at his best when combining memories of Western life, passionate descriptions, and a sense of the natural beauty of the environment. He seeks a compromise between the technological and the spiritual world when, in The Woman at Otowi Crossing for example, he confronts the conflict between Native American culture and the development of atomic weapons. Much of Waters's work is an expression of his emotions, mystical beliefs, intellectual consciousness, and perceptive insight into humanity and nature, all of which merge with a tumultuous intensity. This compilation is a delight, effectively sharing the author's life and lifelong passion for the American West through his prose and a selection of photographs. Recommended for all libraries.--Cynde Bloom Lahey, New Canaan Lib., CT Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.

Booknews

A collection of writing from 15 books by Southwestern writer Frank Waters, encompassing his nonfiction and his novels over a period of 40 years. This volume lacks a subject index. Lyon wrote the first book- length critical study of Frank Waters, and has edited collections of Western American literature. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)