The lives and work of nearly 300 of the modern world's greatest writers are compiled in this one convenient resource. Writers featured include traditional literary figures, popular contemporary writers, and authors of special or enduring impact, importance, or influence.

The careers of some of the world's finest authors, playwrights, poets, and essayists are profiled in this convenient and exhaustive resource. From bestselling titans like J. K. Rowling and Dave Barry to great literary lights like James Joyce and Alexandr Solzhenitsyn, almost every major writer since the start of the twentieth century is featured. Entries include analysis of the writer's career, personal life, and place and time as well as information on two or more of his or her major works.

With a critical analysis of major works and a biographical study of the life that produced them, each article offers valuable insights into the lives of these great writers. This user-friendly guide introduces readers to the extraordinary range of the modern written word. Whether their interest is in a popular contemporary writer like Stephen King, part of the school curriculum like George Orwell, or a particular favorite of their own, such as Bapsi Sidhwa or Jon Krakauer, students and readers will find valuable information and fascinating details about their favorite works and the writers that produced them.

Besides providing all the necessary basic information about the works of the world's great writers, this wide-ranging resource offers access to a broader perspective on their life and times and will be well-used by both students and browsers.