From Booklist
In more than 500 entries, this offering from the acclaimed and popular Literary A to Z series covers every aspect of the lives of the Brontes. In their introduction, the authors note that interest in the Brontes continues to grow, thanks to "intense scholarly study and--in some cases--nearly cultlike devotion." Alphabetically arranged, the volume includes synopses of the Brontes' writings, their publishing history, and critical reception; entries for all characters, both major and minor; historical events and people who influenced the lives and writings; real and fictional settings; and family members, friends, publishers, and even pets. There are also entries for notable Bronte biographers and scholars. The entries vary in length from 17 pages of plot summary and analysis (with photographs from film versions) for Wuthering Heights, to a few lines for Naomi Brocklehurst, founder of the infamous Lowood School in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. Other features include a map of Bronte country; a detailed chronology; a categorical appendix that lists entries under headings such as "Bronte Authorities" and "Publishers, Publications, and Organizations"; and a bibliography. This volume is a good introduction to readers unfamiliar with the Brontes as well as a worthwhile resource for scholars and fans. It would be a valuable addition to high-school, public, and academic libraries.RBB
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