'In scope, documentation, analysis and argument, Roger Allen's book is a welcome contribution, a masterpiece that deserves the best of scholarly appreciation and the right presence among texts in the field. It is a book that should appear on every reading list for courses and seminars in Arabic studies.' Journal of Arabic Literature 'There are few Arabists whose writings give the impression that they feel thoroughly at home in both classical and modern Arabic literature, and Professor Roger Allen is certainly one of them.' Journal of Islamic Studies Especially useful are the chronology of historical and literary events and the guide to further reading...Recommended for university and college libraries supporting the study of Arabic literature at all levels. Choice Roger Allen provides a comprehensive and detailed introduction to the Arabic literary heritage...The strength of this book is its ability to introduce the pivotal text and themes of an entire tradition. Indeed, Allen's presentation of the classical tradition, what might be considered the text's major achievement, provides reliable, concise and dense analyses and interpretations. The sheer breadth and range of Allen's work make it a valuable and important contribution. Arab Studies Journal an admirable treatment of the subject, an up-to-date command of the scholarly research, and innovative insights into the material....a gem of a book indeed. World Literature Today