Barbara Kingsolver

Editor Autenfeld (American Literature, University of Fribourg) has assembled a volume of essays that critically examine the life and work of U.S. writer Barbara Kingsolver. A self-described "writer with a purpose", Kingsolver from the beginning showed herself to be an author willing to engage with social and political issues, and she is to this day an important advocate for that type of writing. Original essays draw on Kingsolver's biography to locate her work within various literary and social traditions. In addition, a collection of previously published essays include structural examinations of several of Kingsolver's books and relate Kingsolver's work to that of other writers. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)