A sequel to Hayashi's study guide series-A Study Guide to Steinbeck: A Handbook to His Major Works (Part 1, 1974, Part II, 1979), this book collects contributions from a new generation of Steinbeck teachers-scholars who employ the latest research materials, now available in both published and unpublished sources-letters and manuscripts along with pertinent time-tested materials. They include Dr. Louis Owens, a prominent teacher, scholar, critic, and novelist, along with Charlotte Hadella, Barbara Heavilin, Helen Lojek, Michael J. Meyer, and Patrick W. Shaw, who discuss frequently taught Steinbeck titles with enthusiasm and expertise, keeping the classroom audience in mind. Each chapter presents background, plot synopsis, critical explication, topics for research and discussion, and selected bibliography.