Faris (English and comparative literature, U. of Texas at Arlington) co-edited the highly regarded book Magical Realism: Theory, History, Community . Here she discusses the importance of
      magical realism as a trend in international literature (not just in Latin American literature), and describes its characteristics and narrative techniques. The book also explores topics such as
      the female element within magical realism, the decolonizing properties of magical realism, and the accusation that magical realism can be seen as a form of commodification. Annotation ©2004
      Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)