This new series succeeds admirably in its goal of presenting readers with "an intelligent and accessible introduction to key works of contemporary literature." Requiring readers to think critically and intelligently, these guides encourage thorough evaluation of the works discussed (three or four per author), dissecting particular scenes as well as themes and genres and including analyses with page references and stimulating reading activities. Each also provides an author biography, a select bibliography, suggested texts for complementary/comparative readings, and a glossary of literary terms. Also featured are extracts from reviews, often offering different viewpoints on the same title. The most attractive feature is the in-depth interview conducted with the author, which gives readers a perspective not found in most literary guides and elicits topics for further thought and discussion. Recommended for academic, school, and public libraries.-Erica Swenson Danowitz, American Univ. Lib., Washington, DC Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.