The Reading List:
Contemporary Fiction - A Critical Guide to the Complete Works of 110 Authors
Edited By David Rubel
Henry Holt, $14.95
ISBN 0805055274

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So much fiction has been published over the last few decades that any complete catalogue would be gargantuan. And given the tremendous amount of new writing, searching for the worthiest novels is a daunting task. Nevertheless, David Rubel has sifted through the annals of contemporary writing and produced The Reading List, a new reference book listing 110 of the most influential authors of contemporary literary fiction.

To be included, an author must be alive and still writing, have published more than one book, and have written in more than a single genre. No geographical limitations were set, so a wide array of countries are represented. In addition to a short biographical summary, the entry for each author includes a complete list of the author's fiction in chronological order. Books that by consensus are an author's best are starred, and excerpts from reviews are presented alongside those entries. At the end of each author's section, Rubel recommends a group of authors of related substance or style.

What makes The Reading List stand out from other dry reference tools is Rubel's unpretentious, informal tone. Be advised, however, that the present book makes no mention of Tom Clancy, Danielle Steele, or John Grisham. But many other popular writers, like Joyce Carol Oates, Toni Morrison, and John Irving are listed.

Critics seldom agree about the value of new fiction, and by definition, contemporary writers have yet to stand the test of time. But as a welcome reminder of the wealth of great authors now writing, The Reading List successfully whets the appetite for contemporary literary fiction.'