Extraordinarily diverse literature. The 53 stories, 198 poems, and 17 plays offer a captivating blend of highly teachable contemporary writing and a well-chosen selection of canonical literature. Stimulating connections between the literature of the past and the present are highlighted by pairings and thematic writing assignments.
A uniquely accessible approach to reading and writing about literature. Clear, non-technical explanations of literary elements and innovative reference features such as boxed checklists and tips initiate even the most inexperienced students into the pleasures of reading and the challenges of writing about literature. Step-by-step writing help throughout the book includes a chapter each on writing about stories, poems, and plays, as well as a chapter on literary research.
Casebooks highlight leading contemporary authors. Unlike more traditional anthologies whose casebooks focus on classic authors, Approaching Literature explores three vibrant contemporary writers: A casebook in the fiction section reprints stories by and criticism about Sherman Alexie; a poetry casebook focuses on Judith Ortiz Cofer, situating her poetry in a personal context; and a drama casebook takes a look at the contexts and criticism of August Wilson's Fences.