Harlan Ellison is the subject of the 21 essays compiled by Francavilla (English, Columbus State U.) in this volume on his works of science fiction and fantasy, including Deathbird Stories, "I
Have No Mouth and I Must Scream," "Shatterday," A Boy and His Dog, and "Psy-Fi." Both new and previously published essays by literature scholars from the US and Europe examine Ellison's life,
career, and influence; critical reception; relationship with the science fiction and fantasy community; theme of social engagement in his short fiction; comparison to Cormac McCarthy and Edgar
Allan Poe; mythological and psychological themes; his work in the television industry; his persona as author, storyteller, and narrator; his critique of Western culture; and his speculative
fiction. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)