American folk music icon Woody Guthrie's (1912-1967) influence (and staying power) extends far beyond American borders. The songs he brought with him from the rural towns and communities of the
American southwest are known throughout the world and have had a more than significant influence on popular culture. Guthrie was more than a folk troubadour; he was a labor union activist, a
protester and social and political critic. This collection of 11 essays from researchers in cultural studies, history, literature, journalism, and folklore represents a major advance in
understanding not only Guthrie's famous songs such as This Land is Your Land and his motivations for writing them, but also his sensibilities--and a deeper understanding of his considerable
influence. Editor Partington, a biographer, and 10 co-authors contributed to the book. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
