Ten years in the making, this comprehensive single-volume literary survey is for the scholar, student, and general reader. "The Encyclopedia of American Literature" represents a collaborative effort, involving 300 contributors from across the United States and Canada. Composed of more than 1,100 signed biographical-critical entries, this Encyclopedia serves as both guide and companion to the study and appreciation of American literature. From John Smith to Jack Kerouac, Cotton Mather to Toni Morrison, Edgar Allan Poe to Stephen King, Francis Parkman to Alex Haley, the story of American literature is really many stories - of ancient indigenous peoples, early settlers, men and women enslaved and liberated, war and peace, and immigrants seeking better lives. All topical and biographical-critical entries are cross-referenced and linked to the index. Select bibliographical material is included in most articles.

Author Biography

Steven R. Serafin, General Editor, is affiliated with Hunter College of the City University of New York. Alfred Bendixen, Associate Editor, is a professor of English at California State University and is the founder of the American Literature Association.