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About this book
As interest in environmental issues grows, many writers of fiction have embraced themes that explore the connections between humans and the natural world. Ecologically themed fiction ranges from profound philosophical meditations to action-packed entertainments.
This book offers an overview of nearly 2,000 works of nature-oriented fiction. The author includes a discussion of the precursors and history of the genre, and of its expansion since the 1970s. He also considers its forms and themes, as well as the subgenres into which it has evolved, such as speculative fiction, ecodefense, animal stories, mysteries, ecofeminist novels, cautionary tales and others. A brief summary and critical commentary of each title is included.
Customer Reviews
By: Jim Dwyer
248 pages
There is not and will not be anything else like this book on the market, and no one will attempt to imitate it, given its range and scope. It will prove an invaluable reference book, not only for libraries to own but also for serious ecocritics working with English-language texts around the world. Patrick D. Murphy, author of Farther Afield in the Study of Nature-Oriented Literature "Dwyer's suggestive, provocative `field guide' does exactly what one would expect from such a work-it makes us want to read more, to read the actual literary texts. With prompts and prods-rather than traditional analysis and arguments-Where the Wild Books Are inspires readers to explore the work of authors they may never have encountered before and to consider new dimensions of environmental literature. The book is rich with advice." Scott Slovic, author of Going Away to Think: Engagement, Retreat, and Ecocritical Responsibility "Jim Dwyer's book is proof positive that fiction is stranger and often more interesting than facts. This is a must-have item for any eco-reference collection." Fred Stoss, chair of the Task Force on the Environment, American Library Association