First edition published in 1955 under title "The Contemporary French Novel."

Includes bibliographical references at chapter ends, bibliography of essential general works on the novel (pages 466-472), and index.

Much has happened in French fiction between 1950 and 1967. Our perspective on the great figures of the twentieth century has been altered, with changes in stature, critical evaluation, and certain 'innovations' have palled. The temper of the nation which is mirrored or distorted in its fiction is strikingly different from what it was in the post WWII era, when the French looked up to American fiction and felt deeply disturbed by their efforts to catch up with more stable and prosperous nations. A list of over one hundred novelists with brief critical assessments is at the end of the book, and should prove useful to readers. The stress throughout is not on the technique of the novel as a genre, but rather on individual novelists, their works as related to life and as they afford a broadening of our culture, a liveliness of interest, and insight into the French mind and sensibility.

Also issued online.

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