While other works cover individual ethnic literary traditions, this encyclopedia is the first to offer a comprehensive introduction to the spectacularly diverse range of ethnic American writing. Included are more than 1100 alphabetically arranged entries by more than 300 scholars. While most of the entries are biographical, others cover genres, ethnic stereotypes, seminal works, significant places, major historical events, key pieces of legislation, and various other topics that are part of the context of multiethnic America literature. While some of the writers profiled have international reputations, others are emerging artists. The encyclopedia is accessible to students and general readers, and numerous illustrations enhance its appeal to a broad audience.



The collaborative effort of more than 300 specialists working under the direction of distinguished scholar and editor Emmanuel S. Nelson, the encyclopedia also benefits from the guidance of an exceptional advisory board, including: ; Kenneth J. Cerniglia ; Roberta Fernandez ; Thomas S. Gladsky ; Guiyou Huang ; Arnold Krupat ; Paul Lauter ; Ann R. Shapiro ; And Loretta G. Woodard.



Because American society is increasingly diverse, students need to understand and value the perspectives and experiences of different ethnic groups. Literature presents social history in capsule form, and this encyclopedia will be a crucial reference for high school students and teachers interested in understanding contemporary American society. Public libraries, especially those serving ethnic communities, will also welcome this valuable resource, as will colleges and universities.









Begins with a lucid introductory essay by Paul Lauter, editor of the groundbreaking and controversial Heath Anthology of American Literature and a pioneer in multicultural studies.



Includes more than 1100 alphabetically arranged entries.



Utilizes the knowledge and expertise of more than 300 scholars.



Covers the entire range of ethnic American literature, from the colonial era to the present.



Includes entries on major canonical writers taught at all levels.



Gives special attention to contemporary writers and emerging authors.



Acknowledges the contributions of women writers from diverse ethnic groups.



Provides survey entries on significant ethnic American literatures.



Includes entries on the most important and widely studied works.



Presents entries on literary genres and topics.



Entries on stereotypes, legislation, historical events, and social issues relate ethnic American literature to its various contexts.



Provides an alphabetical list of entries.



Lists entries grouped in topical categories.



Entries cite numerous works for student research.



Provides a selected, general bibliography of the most important broad works on ethnic American literature.



Includes a detailed index and full cross-references.



A generous selection of illustrations showcases the life and works of ethnic American writers.