From School Library Journal
Gr 9 Up--A collection of essays, each an average of five pages long, chosen specifically for YA audiences. The volume begins with a short biography of Crane that includes insight into how his most famous book was researched. The selections are divided into four chapters: the themes and styles in the author's work in general; analysis of The Red Badge of Courage; the short story "The Open Boat"; and other works, namely Maggie, a Girl of the Streets and Crane's poetry. The essays, which span the century, are written by established scholars and such well-known literary figures as H. G. Wells and Willa Cather. Each essay is introduced by a paragraph that summarizes its main idea and lists the credentials of the author. A detailed index completes this useful volume.
Michele Snyder, Chappaqua Public Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
