Dictionary of Midwestern Literature, Volume 1

This comprehensive reference work offers an authoritative survey of nearly 400 authors whose writing is rooted in the American Midwest, presenting both biographical details and critical perspectives on their work. The dictionary operates on the compelling premise that regional literature is not merely a reflection of a place but an active force in shaping the identity, values, and worldview of its people. It systematically captures the distinct cultural and experiential landscape of the heartland through the lens of its most significant literary voices, providing a foundational understanding of the region's narrative traditions.

What distinguishes this volume is its scholarly yet accessible approach to mapping a literary geography often overlooked in broader American studies. Students of literature, researchers focusing on regionalism, and any reader curious about the formative influence of the Midwest will find this an indispensable resource. By connecting individual authors to the larger tapestry of Midwestern identity, the dictionary does more than catalog; it illuminates the enduring power of place in the American literary imagination.