Ways of Reading

Praise for the first edition:

'Ways of Readingis a valuable and immensely usable book ... More than fills a major gap.' –Literature & Language

'This is a clear and incisive introduction to main issues in the critical study of literature.' - Robin Jarvis, University of the West of England, UK

Praise for the third edition:

'...ground-breaking... The academic underpinning is just where it should be, in the background, allowing prominence for the much more important idea that looking at reading in new ways gives new insights and new pleasures... This is an ideal book for teachers of English at all levels... Third editions can sometimes seem to be marginally altered versions of the previous editions. It is certainly not the case here. Do read this superb book.'- Adrian Beard, NATE

'Ways of Reading is the one textbook that no undergraduate student of English can afford to do without. Whether for their essays in literary criticism or literary theory, this book is an invaluable resource providing expert guidance and relevant information. Each chapter offers clear explanations of theoretical concepts and practical applications of interpretive techniques. This richly revised fourth edition confirms its ever-rising popularity as a key textbook in English Studies, with exciting new material and fresh examples.'

Jean-Jacques Weber, University of Luxembourg

'Ways of Reading is by far the most lucid and lively guide to the skills of reading. Beginners and advanced students alike will find clearly set out in this book the concepts and techniques, examples and exercises, that can help them become active and critical readers of all kinds of literary and media discourse.'

Douglas Kerr, Hong Kong University

‘This comprehensive introduction to the study of literature deftly balances a focus on practical techniques with a considered handling of theoretical approaches. Undergraduate students – and their lecturers – will welcome in particular its clarity, topical examples and accessibility.’

Julie Scanlon, Northumbria University, UK