Donna Jo Napoli: Writing With Passion

A professor of linguistics, acclaimed young adult author Donna Jo Napoli is especially known for her retellings of myths and fairy tales, as well as her historical novels. In this full-length study featuring an interview with Napoli, Hilary S. Crew integrates criticism and biographical information to illuminate Napoli's many novels. Including relevant commentary from other sources, Crew also considers other writings by Napoli, such as her essays on writing for young people and her book Language Matters.

This study includes analyses of Napoli's works, including her adaptations of fairy tales and myths in the novels The Magic Circle, Zel, Bound, Beast, and Sirena ; novels drawn from religious and traditional sources, such as Song of the Magdalene, Breath, and Hush; and historical works, such as The Smile, Daughter of Venice, and novels set during WWII: Stones in Water and its sequel Fire in the Hills.

A comprehensive critical analysis of nineteen novels, including Alligator Bayou, Donna Jo Napoli: Writing with Passion provides an understanding of how Napoli's life and profession influence her writing. This book will be a significant resource for librarians working with youth, undergraduate and graduate students of young adult literature, teachers of young adult literature, and of course, teens interested in Napoli's novels.