A Brief Handbook of English Authors   By: Oscar Fay Adams

A Brief Handbook of English Authors by Oscar Fay Adams provides readers with a concise and informative overview of prominent English authors from various periods of literary history. Adams' book serves as a valuable resource for both students and lovers of literature, offering a wealth of knowledge in a compact format.

One of the notable strengths of this handbook is its organization. The book is divided into chapters that cover specific periods or genres, enabling readers to easily navigate through different eras of English literature. Each chapter focuses on a particular group of authors, providing a comprehensive yet concise exploration of their lives and works. This approach allows readers to gain a broad understanding of English literature without feeling overwhelmed by excessive details.

Adams' writing style is clear and accessible, making complex literary concepts and historical contexts relatable to readers of various levels of familiarity with English literature. The author effectively balances providing crucial biographical information without delving too deeply into unnecessary details, allowing readers to develop a coherent understanding of each author's literary contributions.

Moreover, this handbook includes numerous notable figures in English literature, ranging from well-known names like Shakespeare and Chaucer to lesser-known authors. By including authors from various periods and genres, Adams ensures that readers receive a well-rounded appreciation of English literature's evolution over time.

One of the book's notable features is its inclusion of excerpts from the authors' works. These selections not only provide readers with a taste of the authors' writing styles but also evoke curiosity and encourage further exploration of their works. This integration of primary texts adds depth and authenticity to the handbook, creating a more immersive reading experience.

However, while A Brief Handbook of English Authors provides an excellent overview of English literature, it may not delve deep enough into each author's works. Some readers may feel that they require more in-depth analysis and critique to fully grasp the significance of each writer. Nonetheless, the book serves as an ideal starting point for readers seeking a general understanding of English literature and serves as a gateway for further exploration into individual authors.

In conclusion, A Brief Handbook of English Authors by Oscar Fay Adams is a valuable guide for anyone interested in English literature. The book's concise format and accessible writing style make it an excellent resource for readers of all levels. Despite some minor limitations, this handbook offers a well-rounded overview of notable English authors and their contributions to the world of literature.

First Page:

In the world of letters as in the world of society conventionality plays no unimportant part, as every student of literature knows. That there is such a thing as "conventional immortality" every biographical dictionary yields abundant evidence. Even so small a work as this must necessarily contain many names that have achieved this conventional immortality through the accident of circumstance. Some literary fames are among the legacies left by preceding centuries to the present one to account for and explain. And when all is said, "the iniquity of oblivion blindly scattereth her poppy and dealeth with the memory of men without distinction to merit of perpetuity... Continue reading book >>