Aimed at students and the general reader, this introductory critical study examines the writings of Mark Twain. Coverage includes Twain's well-known works such as Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court as well as his short stories and travel narratives. Sloane (English, U. of New Haven) also discusses Twain's life and the themes, plot structure, character development, and historical background of Twain's writing. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)