Tending the Garden - Essays on Mormon Literature (Paperback)

The field of LDS letters has blossomed over the past few decades. Critical attention is one indication, though a particularly important one, of the increasing maturity of Mormon writing. Where authors once could not expect to be reviewed, they are now included in the most prestigious literary journals and occasionally featured in the national press. Increasingly they find that their audience includes people outside the LDS faith.

Contributors to this collection are experts with specialty interests. They discuss trends beginning with Parley P. Pratt's autobiography to more recent works by Levi Peterson and Terry Tempest Williams. They address Mormon aesthetics, summarize the historical development of LDS writing, and explore contributions by specific authors.

A recurring question is what has been gained from all this effort -- whether readers are better for it -- and whether literature reflects or influences life. For some, this discussion provides food for thought. Others value the recommendations about what to read. Whether one is looking for literary criticism or entertainment, this collection has something for anyone who appreciates good writing.