Kurt Vonnegut: A Critical Companion

(Hardback)

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With a career spanning 50 years, Kurt Vonnegut is one of the most prolific and popular American writers of the 20th century. Though his works have often met with mixed reviews, and have been difficult to categorize, his status of cultural icon and one of the most important contemporary novelists is well established. This critical companion, perfect for students, skillfully guides readers through seven of Vonnegut's most important novels including Player Piano (1952), Mother Night (1961), Cat's Cradle (1963), and Slaughterhouse Five (1969). A full chapter is devoted to each work, with clear analysis of plot, character development, thematic concerns, symbolism, and a close critical reading. A chapter on the life of Kurt Vonnegut gives an up-to-date biography, with interesting details relating the facts of his life to his writings. The Literary Contexts section, devoted to examining issues of genre, influences, and themes in Vonnegut's writing, adds to a fuller understanding of the man and his literary works.

Reviews

A clear, concise introduction to literary criticism.-School Library Journal
Vonnegut's remarkable contribution to American literature is quirky and controversial. Marvin offers biographical information on the author and discusses how his life affected his writing. He also examines Vonnegut's rise to a cult figure in the 1960's.-Curriculum Connections/School Library Journal
"A clear, concise introduction to literary criticism."-School Library Journal
"Vonnegut's remarkable contribution to American literature is quirky and controversial. Marvin offers biographical information on the author and discusses how his life affected his writing. He also examines Vonnegut's rise to a cult figure in the 1960's."-Curriculum Connections/School Library Journal

Author Bio

THOMAS F. MARVIN is Assistant Professor of English and American Studies at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. He has published articles on African-American literature and music in both American Literature and African American Review.