The Norton Anthology of American Literature: 1914-1945

W.W. Norton & Company broke the mold with this collection of American literary works, as they do with most all of their collections (I'm also quite taken with their Western World Literature collection). Among the complete works are such timeless tales as Walden, Benito Cereno, The Scarlet Letter, and Douglass' Narrative of the Life, each a significant piece not just among American literature, but among American history. What I find particularly enjoyable is the fact that it holds so many different pieces that if there is a time in which I have nothing better to do, Norton's American Literature Anthology most likely will have something to suit my mood. Among the many poems, essays, and narratives, there is surely something new to find whether being a piece of literary work or a symbolic significance to search for within a piece I may have already looked through. It is something I plan to keep on my bookshelf to enjoy for a very long time.

I got this book a some two weeks before school'd start. I got it on time, and the book was in excellent condition. Totally worthit and recommended!

Great collection of american Literature. Must have especially for English or History majors. The editors bios/intros for each section provide insightful information

The editors provide valuable introductions to each period, providing insight to the selected readings. Not only does this book contain literature of American authors, it provides an interesting accounting of the history of this country, by the authors themselves, and the philosophies and teachings that were instrumental to propelling our country to where we are today.

I had to buy the second package for a class, and it was so good that I wanted to get this as well. Pick it up. There's not another single place (although it is 5 volumes in total) that covers more American authors, at least not one I've seen. Most are quick and short, but it's a nice introduction to those authors. There are many complete works. Enough to whet you appetite for more great reading, in my eyes. I think these are the best compilation volumes out there. And there are many authors covering a broad range of material. It's a good buy.