Magic Realism

Library Journal

This beautifully produced new series of literary reference works, "The Gale Study Guides to Great Literature," is designed to support the literary research of high school and college students. The series in turn consists of three subseries: Literary Masters, Literary Masterpieces, and Literary Topics. These focus on the individual authors, works, and concepts frequently studied in the current literature curricula. Written by well-known scholars, the books all feature original, newly written material, which presents not only the facts about the author, work, or literary topic but also significant cultural and historical material to help put those facts in context. All volumes contain glossaries, lists of study questions, chronologies, annotated bibliographies, indexes, and other study resources. Unlike other ongoing series that cover similar terrain (e.g., Twayne's "Authors," "Masterwork," and "Studies in Literary Themes and Genres" series and Chelsea House's "Modern Critical Interpretations" and "Modern Critical Views"), these books have a more finished and personal feel. The thoughtful and attractive design and convenient layout, comprehensive approach, reliance on original material, constant reference to current research, and ample bibliographic apparatus make this a superior series. Richly illustrated, well printed with broad margins and readable type, handsomely and sturdily bound, these books are highly recommended for public and college libraries and secondary school media centers.--Paul D'Alessandro, Portland P.L., Maine Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.\

Booknews

The volumes explore particular themes in terms of their history and context, representative writers, connection with other literary movements, hallmark works, critical responses, and resources for further study (study questions, literary terms, and bibliography). Each volume contains the same brief introduction by Denis Donoghue (English and American letters, New York University); the credentials of the author are not cited. Gale's Study Guides to Great Literature, appropriate for high school readers and, perhaps, somewhat older students who need somewhere to start, include three components: and . Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)