A Guide to Little-Known Works by Big-Name Writers
Discover the remarkable works that even devoted readers may have missed. Explore 70 underrecognized novels, stories, essays, and poems by some of America’s most celebrated writers.
We know and treasure the major writings of authors such as Mark Twain, Toni Morrison, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Edith Wharton, and Richard Wright—but these writers have other riches awaiting the reader.
Many less celebrated novels, short stories, essays, and poems have been left out of classroom discussions, despite having much to offer those who seek them out.
Focusing on 70 works ranging from the colonial period to the present and reflecting a broad spectrum of styles, genres, and historical perspectives, Deep Cuts of American Literature situates each text within its historical and biographical context while highlighting its literary qualities and modern relevance.
Drawing from archival material and author commentary, Benway and Broderick invite readers to broaden their engagement with American literature by bringing underrecognized works with enduring artistic merit into the center of the conversation.
“A rich, indeed incomparable, guide for any and all readers looking for new works to explore in American literature... Brightly written, relentlessly intelligent, and deeply in touch with the nation’s literary history.”
— Carolyn Porter, professor emeritus of English at UC Berkeley and author of William Faulkner: Lives and Legacies
“What a treat—and what a splendid feast—Benway and Broderick have prepared for their readers... Dive in and explore American literary works beyond the usual and the expected. Literary pleasures await you.”
— Robert DiYanni, professor of humanities at New York University and author of Critical Perspectives: An Approach to the Interpretation of Literature
“What an absolutely wonderful book. Wish I'd had access to it during my three decades of teaching literature in university, and earlier, as an undergraduate. It would have been a real breath of fresh air.”
— Bruce McAllister, distinguished emeritus professor of literature and writing and author of Dream Baby
Bruce Benway has taught literature and writing at the University of California, Berkeley, Linfield College, and La Sierra University. His work has appeared in The Threepenny Review, Chicago Quarterly Review, Catamaran, Hunger Mountain, and other publications. He lives in Montclair, New Jersey.
James F. Broderick is a professor of English at Kean University–Jersey City. He has written several works of fiction and nonfiction, and his plays have been produced in New York City and northern New Jersey. His work has appeared in academic journals and literary magazines in the U.S. and abroad. He lives in Glen Ridge, New Jersey.
Step beyond the familiar canon and discover overlooked works by writers you thought you already knew.
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