The Writer's Guide to Fantasy Literature: From Dragon's Lair to Hero's Quest
Most books for fantasy writers blend that genre with sf, but this work is an exception. Unfortunately, the entire first chapter (of 12) is devoted to "Pottermania," including "Eight Reasons Why Harry Is a Success," and a large amount of space is devoted (although more deservedly so) to J.R.R. Tolkien. The book offers little concrete instruction for writers, the most practical advice being found in five pages of the final chapter ("Submitting Your Work for Publication"); otherwise, most instruction is done by pointing to passages by successful authors. Included are such masters of fantasy literature as C.S. Lewis, Ursula Le Guin, and T.H. White, as well as peripherally related writers like Joseph Campbell and nongenre writers like John Steinbeck. This admittedly "inclusive" and "nonacademic" approach is overly generous at times. The slim volume doesn't dally with any one work, with the exception of Harry Potter, and can give the impression of rush and disorder; but the ten interviews with prominent fantasy writers do offer valuable insights. This guide provides a decent overview of an overlooked genre until a more thorough and organized treatment comes along. Recommended for academic libraries supporting broad writing programs and all public libraries. Angela Weiler, SUNY at Morrisville Lib.Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.