The Cambridge Introduction to the Novel

MacKay (English, Washington Univ., St. Louis) here makes a significant contribution to the understanding and appreciation of the novel, calling this a "book about what novels are and what they do." She explores the history of the form, which can be traced to classical antiquity or 18th-century England, depending on how one defines "novel." Each chapter explores a particular aspect of the novel, such as narration, character, and setting. Following each chapter is an accessible interchapter in which MacKay further explores that aspect through a specific novel, ranging from Don Quixote through some usual examples to Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children. The chapters are largely self-contained, enabling the reader to focus quickly and effectively. In addition, a glossary of terms is provided, with first usage in the book bolded to signify that a definition is available.