This volume investigates the evolution and multifaceted nature of the American novel across centuries. It is comprised of original essays by renowned international scholars that extend critical debates and introduce new ones, offering fresh perspectives on canonical works while also exploring the influence of popular genres like science fiction and mystery on the literary tradition. The book is structured to foster dialogue between essays, revealing cross-currents between authors and historical periods. Ultimately, it aims to reshape scholarly and readerly understanding of American literary history.

The Cambridge History of the American Novel is presented as an ambitious and significant contribution to literary scholarship. Its structure, which encourages dialogue between essays, is highlighted as an innovative departure from previous histories, promising to reveal surprising connections within and across historical periods. The collection is expected to offer new views of American classics and to re-evaluate the role of popular genres in the formation of the literary canon. As a collective chronicle, it is positioned to alter scholarly and readerly perceptions of American literary history and its future trajectory.