'The history and development of the novel as a genre is the subject of this comprehensive, scholarly work. Its 650 essays are arranged alphabetically and focus on classic novels, great novel writers, types of novels, novels identified with particular countries or regions, technical and formal aspects of novels, theory, influence, and novel criticism. All of the entries are signed and have been contributed by specialists, and conclude with brief bibliographies, lists of works, and further reading. There are two indexes: a title index and a detailed, general index. Highly recommended for advanced students of the novel.'--'Outstanding reference sources 2000', American Libraries, May 2000. Comp. by the Reference Sources Committee, RUSA, ALA. (view table of contents)