As evidenced by these two works, the creator of Tarzan enters the august ranks of writers such as Ray Bradbury and Arthur Conan Doyle who have captured the attention of both lay readers and scholars. A useful reader's guide, the Cyclopaedia is an exhaustive listing of the people, places, terms, characters, and languages, real or imagined, that inhabit Burroughs's world. In a tightly constructed work, editor Brady defines hundreds of terms and references and identifies the book and chapter in which they appear. The work itself makes fascinating reading, as when it traces the different uses and meanings of the word kor. In addition to the definitions, Brady also supplies a chronology of events in Burroughs's fiction, a listing of words in various languages, and wonderful story map that cross-references texts. In contrast, Zeuschner's desciptive bibliography is intended not as a reader's guide but as a guide for scholars and collectors. Zeuschner provides an exhaustive listing of all of Burroughs's American hardcover editions and the major paperback releases published through 1995. In a welcome addition, he also places each of Burroughs's books in its historical context and distinguishes between the conditions of various first editions. The bibliography is supplemented by a 13-page biography, photographs, and extensive appendixes, chief among them a level-headed and helpful section on the values of first editions. Taken together, these two works present a very thorough picture of the internal world of Burroughs's imagination and the external world of his publishing record. Both are highly recommended for academic libraries and public libraries with an active Burroughs circulation. Because the price and format of the Cyclopaedia will keep it from being read along with Burroughs's work, when it would be most appreciated, larger public libraries may want to consider a circulating copy.?Neal Wyatt, Chesterfield Cty. P.L., Va.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Review
"a valuable contribution" -- ARBA
"comprehensive...a wealth of material presented in dictionary format...an engaging work of considerable scholarship" -- AB Bookman's Weekly
"fascinating / welcome...highly recommended for academic and public libraries" -- Library Journal
"the ultimate key to Burroughs' imagination...useful appendices" -- Choice
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