This anthology investigates the formal boundaries and literary potential of creative nonfiction, positioning it as a distinct genre equal to poetry, fiction, and drama. Editors Michael J. Steinberg and Robert Root leverage their extensive experience in composition and creative writing pedagogy to curate a collection that demonstrates the versatility of the form. By organizing selections into specific subgenres, the text provides a structured framework for understanding how contemporary writers employ narrative techniques to explore factual subject matter.

This text is widely regarded as a foundational resource for undergraduate creative writing curricula due to its clear categorization and pedagogical utility. The inclusion of diverse subgenres makes it a standard reference for students and instructors seeking to understand the mechanics of contemporary nonfiction writing.