Writers and major works from the UK and USA are represented, as are those from the rest of the English-speaking world - Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, India, and the Caribbean. Particular types of novels (from the Gothic to the campus novel) receive detailed coverage as do trends in fiction (such as realism and naturalism) and popular genres (detective, spy and science fiction). Based on the Guide to Literature in English, this book has a substantial number of new entries and has been completely updated. An original and thought-provoking introduction analyses the historical development and current form of the novel; a selective bibliography indicates areas for further reading, and an appendix lists recipients of all the major literary prizes.