William Rose Benét (1886–1950)

The author writes in the preface that he has endeavored to edit this reader’s encyclopedia in such a way as to enlarge upon original entries from the past with modern treatment; to feature both obscure works and those better known; and to offer brief explanations of significant figures, movements, and terms from aesthetics, science, philosophy, economics, and politics that may be relevant for readers.

Indeed, at first glance, this volume seems quite comprehensive. Yet, enigmatically, some of the most obvious and needed entries are nowhere to be found. For example, suppose you wanted to discover in which book you could find “Pip” ( the protagonist and narrator in Charles Dickens’s novel “Great Expectations”). Pip is not there, nor is his actual given name in the story, Philip Pirrip. Only if you know to look up “Great Expectations” will you find reference to him or to Miss Havisham, although Miss Lonelyhearts, from Nathanael West’s novel, makes the cut.

Similarly strangely omitted, you will find an entry for Georgette Heyer, but none for Regency Romances, or even the Regency Period generally.

“Cat” is an entry, but “Cat in the Hat” is not, although Dr. Seuss is. Nor is “Madeline,” the famous character in books for children by Ludwig Bemelmans, who does appear as an entry. Neither Margaret Wise Brown nor her iconic book, “Goodnight Moon” are included. In general, children’s literature is a much neglected category in this book.

Generally, however, the range of entries is excellent and often surprising, and extends beyond the West, always a sadly anomalous plus.

It’s fun just to page through the book, in which you will find all kinds of tidbits of information, from background on Octavio Paz to Greenwich Village to the French Cordeliers to the significance of the number nine.

I use this book as a coffee table book to stimulate conversation.… (mer)