Lister (American fiction, Durham U., UK) provides a guide to Toni Morrison's novels, from The Bluest Eye (1970) to Love (2003), with analysis of her formal and narrative techniques and engagement with contemporary issues and popular culture. She aims to introduce Morrison's work and explore specific issues for new and familiar readers. She begins with an outline of Morrison's life and career, writing methods, and thoughts on the role of the writer, and continues with chapters on her novels in context, and their themes, language, imagery, and characterization. Other chapters address race, class, and gender in her fiction; her representation of pop culture, as well as the film adaptation of Beloved; her relationship with the media; and online resources. In the chapter on what to read next, Lister discusses connections to other works and influential writers. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)