American Literature on Stage and Screen ─ 525 Works and Their Adaptations

Hischak (theatre arts, State U. of New York College at Cortland) writes in his preface "It seems American literature is not content to stay on the page." The author notes that stage, film, and television adaptations of "great and not-so-great" works of American fiction have regularly appeared, giving them a second life in an altogether different format. In this reference, the author has collected 525 novels, short stories, children's and young adult books, science and horror novels, and other genres of 19th and 20th century American fiction that have been adapted to different media, from the stage to television. Presented in an encyclopedic reference format, a wealth of information is included, such as commentary on how accurate the adaptations were and if they maintained the spirit, intent, and feel of the original literature. Readers will find many very familiar titles as well as others that may be completely unfamiliar. In any event, the book is an enjoyable and informative tour through American literary adaptation. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Award winner Thomas S. Hischak is a professor of theatre arts at the State University of New York College at Cortland. The author of more than 20 books on theatre, film and Tin Pan Alley, he has published several plays.